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Carmel
Master Critic Reviews (11 Lists)
Carmel
8.7
Members pairs a Moroccan-inspired dining room with a members-club sensibility, offering Mediterranean-leaning plates alongside live performances and a curated nightlife program. The kitchen leans into grilled meats, seafood, and mezze that feel more polished than the average club menu. It’s best approached as a full evening out rather than a quick bite.
Must-Try Dishes:
Members’ Signature Mezze, Charcoal-Grilled Lamb Chops, Spiced Seafood Tagine
Scores:
Value: 6.5
Service: 8.7
Consistency: 8
Food Quality: 8.6
Atmosphere: 9.4
Cultural Relevance: 8.4
What makes it special: Moroccan palace–style setting that merges Mediterranean dining with club programming.
Who should go: Guests wanting a full dinner-and-nightlife experience.
When to visit: Late-night seatings on performance nights for the full show.
What to order: Signature mezze, lamb chops, seafood tagine with cocktails.
Insider tip: Check the events calendar—some nights skew more performance- or DJ-focused.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Valet is the norm along the Sunset Strip (typically $15–$20); metered and side-street parking is limited and competitive after 7pm.
Dress code: Elevated smart-casual leaning dressy; polished outfits preferred given the nightlife component.
Noise level: High during performances and DJ sets; expect limited conversation once the room shifts into nightlife mode.
Weekend wait: Reservations are essential; walk-ins can face 60–90 minute waits or be turned away on performance nights.
Weekday lunch: Not applicable—venue operates primarily evenings into late night.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Solid coverage—mezze, salads, and a few mains can be ordered vegetarian.
Vegan options: Limited—1–2 mezze and salads can be modified; mains are minimal.
Gluten-free options: Good accommodation—several grilled proteins and salads are naturally gluten-free; staff is used to navigating restrictions.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes if you want a high-energy, glamorous setting; less ideal for intimate conversation due to music volume and live performances.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Possible early evening on weekdays, but unlikely during peak hours or special events. Walk-ins should expect to wait or be offered bar seating.
Is it kid-friendly? Not recommended—late-night programming, loud music, and a nightlife-focused crowd make it an adults-oriented environment.
Best For
Better for: A full evening that blends elevated Mediterranean dishes with a curated show-and-nightlife atmosphere—ideal for celebrations and statement nights out.
Skip if: You want a quiet dinner, early meal times, or a menu with extensive vegan or family-friendly options.
Carmel
8.6
Carmel brings a Tel Aviv–inspired Middle Eastern and Mediterranean menu to Melrose, pairing wood-fired breads, vibrant mezze, and char-grilled meats with a high-energy dining room and DJ-driven soundtrack. Locals treat it as a full evening out, from cocktails and mushroom cigars at the bar to big-format platters at tables.
Must-Try Dishes:
Mushroom Cigars with whipped feta, Red Snapper Schnitzel, Frena bread with dip spreads
Scores:
Value: 7
Service: 8.8
Consistency: 8.6
Food Quality: 9.1
Atmosphere: 9.2
Cultural Relevance: 8.5
What makes it special: Tel Aviv–inspired plates in a high-energy, design-forward Melrose dining room.
Who should go: Date-night diners and groups chasing scene-y Middle Eastern flavors.
When to visit: Prime weekend dinner slots when the room and music peak.
What to order: Mushroom Cigars, Red Snapper Schnitzel, shared mezze and breads.
Insider tip: Book later seatings for a louder, nightlife-leaning experience with fuller energy.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Valet is typically available along Melrose (around $15–$20), with limited but possible metered street parking on nearby side streets; expect difficulty after 6pm.
Dress code: Smart casual with a nightlife lean—think elevated tops, dark denim, or dressier outfits; guests often dress up for photos and the scene.
Noise level: High-energy with DJ-driven sound; conversation is doable at early seatings but becomes loud and club-adjacent later in the night.
Weekend wait: Expect 45–75 minutes without a reservation, especially after 7:30pm.
Weekday lunch: Not applicable—Carmel is dinner-focused; early weekday dinners usually have little to no wait before 6:45pm.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Strong coverage with mezze, salads, breads, and several mains that are either vegetarian by default or easily adapted.
Vegan options: Moderate—several mezze and vegetable dishes can work, but mains are more limited.
Gluten-free options: Good options including many grilled proteins and select mezze; staff is familiar with gluten sensitivities but the kitchen is not fully gluten-free.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes if you’re aiming for an energetic, stylish setting with strong cocktails and shareable dishes. It’s less ideal for quiet conversation since later seatings get quite loud.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Possible but challenging on weekends. Early walk-ins (before 6:30pm) have the best odds; later hours may require a bar wait or a long line.
Is it kid-friendly? Not particularly. The space skews adult, with dim lighting, a buzzy crowd, and late-night energy. Older teens may be fine, but younger kids are not the target audience.
Best For
Better for: High-vibe Tel Aviv–style dining with shareable mezze, strong cocktails, and an atmosphere that blends dinner with nightlife.
Skip if: You want a quiet meal, need extensive vegan/main-course options, or prefer more traditional Middle Eastern flavors without the scene-forward environment.
Carmel
8.5
Carmel brings a Levantine-leaning menu and candlelit energy to a stretch of Melrose that’s increasingly packed with destination restaurants. Hummus, laffa, and composed vegetable dishes arrive in a room that feels lively but still intimate enough for couples who like a little scene with their dinner.
Must-Try Dishes:
Jerusalem Hummus, Mushroom Cigars, Pistachio Mille-Feuille
Scores:
Value: 6.9
Service: 8
Consistency: 8.2
Food Quality: 8.6
Atmosphere: 8.9
Cultural Relevance: 7.4
What makes it special: A modern Middle Eastern-inspired restaurant where dips, share plates, and wine make lingering feel natural.
Who should go: Couples who like vibrant dining rooms and shareable food.
When to visit: Prime weekend evenings for full buzz or early weeknights for a softer vibe.
What to order: Jerusalem Hummus, Mushroom Cigars, Pistachio Mille-Feuille.
Insider tip: Order a spread of mezzes and one grilled plate instead of individual mains so you can sample more of the menu.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking on Melrose is limited after 6pm; expect to circle. Valet is sometimes offered via neighboring venues but not guaranteed.
Dress code: Smart casual leaning dressy; sleek tops, dark denim, or casual-chic dresses fit the room’s energy.
Noise level: Moderate–lively. You can hold a conversation at a two-top, but the room has a steady buzz during peak hours.
Weekend wait: 30–60 minutes without a reservation depending on peak hours.
Weekday lunch: N/A — dinner-focused; early weeknights generally have minimal waits with a reservation recommended.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Strong options — dips, salads, and vegetable plates make it easy to build a full meal.
Vegan options: Moderate — a few dips and plates are vegan or can be modified; confirm with your server.
Gluten-free options: Good selection — many mezzes and grilled items are naturally gluten-free; laffa and breads are not.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes. The candlelight, shareable dishes, and lively-but-intimate dining room create an easy conversational flow without feeling too formal.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Possibly on weeknights if you arrive early. On weekends, walk-ins face lengthy waits; the bar is your best bet for a quicker seat.
Is it kid-friendly? Not especially. The room skews adult and date-night. Older kids or teens may be fine, but it’s not ideal for younger children.
Best For
Better for: A vibrant, scene-forward take on Middle Eastern flavors with great mezzes ideal for sharing and lingering.
Skip if: You want a quiet, low-energy dinner or need very broad vegan options.
Carmel
8.7
Carmel channels a Tel Aviv-inspired marketplace into a dark, buzzy Melrose dining room, pairing wood-fired breads, crudos, and share plates with a serious cocktail and wine program. It feels built for splurgey nights when you want big flavors, a scene-y crowd, and polished service.
Must-Try Dishes:
Jerusalem Hummus with Laffa, Kampachi Tartare, Lamb Shoulder with Saffron Rice
Scores:
Value: 7
Service: 8.8
Consistency: 8.3
Food Quality: 9.3
Atmosphere: 9.4
Cultural Relevance: 8.4
What makes it special: A Tel Aviv-style, Mediterranean fine-dining room with serious cocktails.
Who should go: Groups or couples ready for a lively, spendy night.
When to visit: Weekend evenings for full buzz and late, lingering dinners.
What to order: Jerusalem Hummus, Kampachi Tartare, Lamb Shoulder.
Insider tip: Reserve the later seatings if you want the room at full energy.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Valet is typically available along Melrose and nearby cross streets; street parking is limited and fills quickly after 6pm.
Dress code: Upscale smart casual; elevated pieces recommended, though dressy jeans and nice tops are common.
Noise level: Moderately loud, especially in prime evening hours; conversation is doable but leans energetic rather than intimate.
Weekend wait: Walk-ins can face 45–75 minutes depending on the hour; reservations are highly recommended.
Weekday lunch: Lunch service is lighter; usually little to no wait depending on the day.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Strong options thanks to dips, salads, and wood-fired vegetable plates.
Vegan options: Limited but present—ask for modifications on dips and select vegetable dishes.
Gluten-free options: Several GF-friendly dishes available; servers are knowledgeable but no dedicated prep area.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes—if you want high energy and impressive food. The room is lively, stylish, and built for a memorable night, though not ideal if you prefer quiet conversation.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Possible but unpredictable. Arrive early or close to opening for the best chance; prime weekend slots are almost always fully booked.
Is it kid-friendly? Not particularly. The scene, late hours, and upscale menu skew adult; older teens comfortable with adventurous flavors may enjoy it, but it’s not geared toward younger kids.
Best For
Better for: High-energy Mediterranean fine dining with bold flavors, standout breads, and a polished cocktail program—ideal for celebratory nights and groups wanting a scene-forward experience.
Skip if: You prefer quiet dining rooms, budget-friendly meals, or menus with extensive vegan/gluten-free accommodations.
Carmel
8.7
Carmel brings a Tel Aviv–inspired marketplace feel to Melrose, pairing wood-fired breads, crudos, and Levantine share plates with a serious wine and cocktail program. The stylish room flows onto an intimate patio, making outdoor tables feel like the ideal setting for long, lingering dinners.
Must-Try Dishes:
Jerusalem Hummus, Kampachi Tartare, Lamb Shoulder
Scores:
Value: 6.8
Service: 8.6
Consistency: 7.9
Food Quality: 9
Atmosphere: 9.2
Cultural Relevance: 8.2
What makes it special: Mediterranean-leaning share plates in a dark, buzzy room that spills onto a moody patio.
Who should go: Groups and couples planning a splurgey, scene-forward night.
When to visit: Later weekend seatings when the patio and bar are packed.
What to order: Jerusalem Hummus, Kampachi Tartare, slow-cooked Lamb Shoulder.
Insider tip: Ask about later patio reservations if you prefer a livelier, post-9pm energy.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking on Melrose is limited and competitive after 6pm; metered spots nearby fill quickly. Valet service is usually available during peak dinner hours.
Dress code: Smart casual with a stylish lean. Jeans are fine, but most guests dress elevated for the scene-driven atmosphere.
Noise level: Moderate to loud, especially on weekends. Patio tables are slightly quieter but still buzzy.
Weekend wait: 45–75 minutes without a reservation, especially for patio seating.
Weekday lunch: Not applicable; Carmel primarily operates dinner service with earlier seatings filling closer to 7pm.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Several strong options including breads, dips, salads, and vegetable-forward plates.
Vegan options: Limited but workable; some dips and vegetable dishes can be modified, but clarify with your server.
Gluten-free options: Many dishes are gluten-free or can be adapted; servers are knowledgeable about substitutions.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes. The patio’s lighting and energy make it ideal for a stylish first date, especially if you want something lively rather than quiet.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Possible but unlikely during peak hours. Walk-ins may be accommodated at the bar or later in the evening, but patio tables are rarely available without booking.
Is it kid-friendly? Not particularly. The menu, pacing, and scene skew more adult; older teens may be fine, but younger children may feel out of place.
Best For
Better for: Perfect for groups or couples who want a polished Mediterranean menu, strong cocktails, and a buzzy patio environment.
Skip if: Choose elsewhere if you prefer quiet dining rooms, simple menus, or restaurants that cater heavily to dietary restrictions.
Carmel
8.7
Carmel channels a Tel Aviv-inspired marketplace into a dark, buzzy dining room that spills onto a stylish, dog-friendly patio. Wood-fired breads, Levantine small plates, and a serious wine and cocktail list make it a go-to for dressed-up nights where you still want to keep your dog by your side.
Must-Try Dishes:
Jerusalem Hummus, Lamb Neck Boreka, Wood-Fired Pita & Dips
Scores:
Value: 7
Service: 8.4
Consistency: 8.1
Food Quality: 9
Atmosphere: 8.9
Cultural Relevance: 8
What makes it special: Mediterranean-leaning share plates and cocktails served in a moody room with a coveted dog-friendly patio.
Who should go: Couples and groups planning a splurgey, scene-forward night.
When to visit: Prime-time weekend dinners when the patio and bar are buzzing.
What to order: Jerusalem Hummus, Lamb Neck Boreka, and a wood-fired bread order.
Insider tip: Note you’re bringing a dog when reserving so they can place you on the most comfortable patio tables.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Valet is typically available on Melrose (around $12–$15); street parking can be tight after 6pm but improves a few blocks north on residential streets.
Dress code: Smart casual leaning dressy—think elevated date-night attire; stylish jeans are fine but most guests dress up.
Noise level: Moderate to loud inside; the patio is more conversational but still buzzy during peak hours.
Weekend wait: 30–60 minutes without a reservation, especially for patio seating.
Weekday lunch: Generally no wait, though patio tables may take a few minutes if it’s sunny.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Strong options including breads, dips, salads, and vegetable-driven small plates.
Vegan options: Limited—1–2 items can be adapted, but the menu leans heavily on dairy and seafood.
Gluten-free options: Solid selection—many crudos, proteins, and dips are naturally gluten-free, though the wood-fired breads are not.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes. The moody lighting, stylish patio, and share-plate format create an inviting, conversational atmosphere without feeling overly formal.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Possible but unpredictable—weekend evenings fill fast. Walking in early (before 6:30pm) gives the best chance at a patio table.
Is it kid-friendly? Not especially—the vibe leans adult and scene-forward. Older teens are fine, but families with small children may find the space tight and the menu less accommodating.
Best For
Better for: Stylish patio dining with upscale Mediterranean share plates and strong cocktails, especially if you want a dog-friendly yet elevated experience.
Skip if: You want a quiet meal, extensive vegan options, or a budget-friendly dinner—other Melrose spots may suit those needs better.
Carmel
8.6
Carmel channels a Tel Aviv-inspired marketplace into a moody Melrose dining room with wood-fired breads, seafood, and Levantine plates that feel built for big nights out. It’s one of the neighborhood’s newer see-and-be-seen destinations, with a bar and playlist that keep the energy high deep into the evening.
Must-Try Dishes:
Red Snapper Schnitzel, Jerusalem Hummus with wood-fired bread, Mushroom Cigar or Borekas
Scores:
Value: 7
Service: 8.3
Consistency: 8.2
Food Quality: 8.9
Atmosphere: 9.2
Cultural Relevance: 7.8
What makes it special: A Tel Aviv–leaning, wood-fired dinner party where the bar, music, and design are as dialed as the food.
Who should go: Groups and couples planning a dressed-up night on Melrose.
When to visit: Late weekend seatings when the room and bar are buzzing.
What to order: Red Snapper Schnitzel, Jerusalem Hummus, a wood-fired bread and seasonal crudo.
Insider tip: Ask about bar or high-top seating if prime-time reservations are booked—it’s often the most lively part of the room.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Valet is typically available on Melrose (usually around $15), and metered street parking exists but becomes competitive after 6pm. Plan extra time on weekends.
Dress code: Smart casual leaning dressy — think elevated date-night attire. Jeans are fine if paired with polished tops or jackets.
Noise level: Loud, especially in the main dining room and bar. Expect a high-energy soundtrack and close tables; conversation is doable but not hushed.
Weekend wait: 45–75 minutes without a reservation depending on time; bar and high-tops may open up sooner.
Weekday lunch: N/A — primarily a dinner-focused restaurant; early weeknights generally see shorter waits.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Good selection — several vegetable-forward dishes, breads, dips, and share plates.
Vegan options: Limited but possible — a couple of items can be modified; always confirm with your server.
Gluten-free options: Moderate — crudos, proteins, and some dips work, but many wood-fired breads and pastas contain gluten. Staff is used to accommodating requests.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes if you want something high-energy and visually striking. The moody lighting and design-forward room set a great tone, but the volume level may not suit quieter first dates.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Possibly. Bar and high-top seating are your best bet for walk-ins, especially after 9pm on weekends or earlier on weeknights.
Is it kid-friendly? Not particularly. The late-night energy, louder soundtrack, and adult-leaning menu make it better for adults and teens rather than young kids.
Best For
Better for: Stylish group dinners, late-night energy, Levantine plates with wood-fired flair, and nightlife-adjacent date nights.
Skip if: You want a quiet meal, substantial vegan options, budget-friendly pricing, or an early-family dinner environment.
Carmel
8.2
Carmel is a 2024 Mediterranean restaurant from chef Asaf Maoz, inspired by Tel Aviv’s Shuk HaCarmel and built around an open kitchen where chef’s table–style experiences showcase wood-fired breads, mezze, and seafood. Multi-course dinners and private-room tastings lean into Levantine flavors with polished cocktails and a deep wine list. The room feels theatrical enough for special occasions but still casual enough for serious diners who want to focus on the food.
Must-Try Dishes:
Moroccan Frena Bread, Seasonal Hummus, My Grandma’s Mushroom Cigar
Scores:
Value: 6.8
Service: 7.8
Consistency: 7.6
Food Quality: 8.9
Atmosphere: 8.7
Cultural Relevance: 8.3
What makes it special: An open-kitchen Mediterranean dining room where chef-led, multi-course menus spotlight Levantine flavors and live-fire cooking.
Who should go: Diners chasing new-school Tel Aviv energy and chef interaction.
When to visit: Later dinner seatings when the kitchen and bar are humming.
What to order: Moroccan Frena Bread, Seasonal Hummus, My Grandma’s Mushroom Cigar.
Insider tip: Inquire about chef’s table or private room tastings for customized multi-course menus.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Valet is typically available on busy nights; limited metered street parking on Fairfax and side streets fills quickly after 6pm.
Dress code: Smart casual with a stylish lean; polished denim is fine, but most diners dress up for the chef’s table experience.
Noise level: Moderate-lively; conversations are doable at tables, but chef’s counter and later seatings carry more energy from the open kitchen.
Weekend wait: 30–60 minutes without a reservation depending on party size; bar seats may open sooner.
Weekday lunch: Not applicable as the restaurant is dinner-focused; early evening walk-ins on weekdays may see minimal waits.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Strong vegetarian representation through mezze, dips, salads, and wood-fired breads.
Vegan options: Limited but thoughtful options—some mezze can be made vegan; confirm with your server.
Gluten-free options: Many dishes are naturally gluten-free, especially seafood and vegetable plates; breads are not, but the kitchen accommodates substitutions when possible.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes—dim lighting, an open kitchen, and polished service create great first-date energy, especially if you book the chef’s table for shared interaction points.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Walk-ins are possible earlier in the evening or at the bar, but prime weekend slots book out. Aim for a weekday visit or arrive early for best chances.
Is it kid-friendly? Not ideal for young children due to the chef’s table format, later seatings, and a more adult-focused menu. Teens with adventurous palates will fare better.
Best For
Better for: Chef interaction, Levantine-inspired tasting menus, and wood-fired breads give Carmel an edge for guests wanting a theatrical but refined Mediterranean experience.
Skip if: You prefer quiet dining rooms, simpler à la carte choices, or are looking for budget-friendly Mediterranean spots.
Carmel
8.2
Carmel is a modern Mediterranean spot on Melrose where wood-fired breads, smoke, and spice create a dramatic backdrop for date nights and small celebrations. The room’s moody lighting and shareable plates make it ideal when you want something stylish without going full white-tablecloth.
Must-Try Dishes:
Grandma's Mushroom Cigar, Smoked Eggplant Masabaha, Halva Gelato
Scores:
Value: 7
Service: 8
Consistency: 7.9
Food Quality: 8.5
Atmosphere: 8.7
Cultural Relevance: 7.8
What makes it special: Smoky, modern Mediterranean cooking in a dim, design-forward room.
Who should go: Couples and small groups who share lots of plates.
When to visit: Later evening seatings when the room feels most energetic.
What to order: Grandma's Mushroom Cigar, Smoked Eggplant Masabaha, halva dessert.
Insider tip: Build a meal around the breads and spreads; they’re the anchor here.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking is available on Melrose and surrounding residential streets but becomes challenging after 7pm; no valet on most nights.
Dress code: Smart casual leaning stylish; elevated jeans and a nice top work, but most guests dress up for the room.
Noise level: Moderate to lively—conversation is doable for two, but groups may need to lean in during peak hours.
Weekend wait: 30–60 minutes without a reservation, especially after 7:30pm.
Weekday lunch: Not applicable; dinner-focused and typically no lunch service.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Several strong options including breads, dips, and vegetable plates.
Vegan options: Limited but workable—1–2 items can be made vegan; check with staff.
Gluten-free options: Many dishes are naturally gluten-free, but wood-fired breads dominate the menu, so cross-contact is possible.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes—dim lighting, shareable plates, and a stylish room create an intimate atmosphere without feeling overly formal.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Possibly on weeknights if you arrive early; weekends usually require a reservation, though bar seats sometimes open up last-minute.
Is it kid-friendly? Not ideal for young kids—the menu skews adult and the room is dark and energetic. Teens comfortable with Mediterranean food will be fine.
Best For
Better for: A moody, design-forward Mediterranean experience with standout breads and spreads—perfect when you want something stylish but not stiff.
Skip if: You want a quiet room, large-format entrées, or extensive vegan options; other spots in the area cater better to those needs.
Carmel
8.5
Vibes:
Date Night Magic
Trendy Table Hotspots
Birthday & Celebration Central
Instagram Worthy Wonders
Carmel is a modern Mediterranean restaurant on Melrose where an eight-course Odyssey Tasting Menu highlights smoky breads, seafood, and dishes built from the wood-fired hearth. A chef-driven counter and dim, design-forward room make it a go-to in 90046 for tasting-style dinners that feel celebratory without being overly formal.
Must-Try Dishes:
Odyssey Tasting Menu, Grandma’s Mushroom Cigar, Lamb Shoulder for Two
Scores:
Value: 7
Service: 8.1
Consistency: 8.4
Food Quality: 8.9
Atmosphere: 9.1
Cultural Relevance: 8.2
What makes it special: An immersive, hearth-focused Mediterranean tasting menu with a chef’s-counter feel.
Who should go: Couples and small groups seeking stylish multi-course dinners.
When to visit: Later evening seatings for full energy and kitchen flow.
What to order: Odyssey Tasting Menu, Grandma’s Mushroom Cigar, lamb shoulder.
Insider tip: Request counter seats when reserving if you want to watch the hearth and plating up close.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking on Melrose is limited after 6pm; expect to circle. Valet is typically available at nearby partner lots for around $12–$15.
Dress code: Smart casual leaning dressy—elevated outfits fit the dim, design-forward room; jeans are fine if paired with polished tops or jackets.
Noise level: Moderate-to-lively; conversations are possible at two-tops, but the room’s energy picks up during later seatings.
Weekend wait: Expect 30–45 minutes without a reservation; the tasting menu format means tables turn slowly.
Weekday lunch: Not applicable—Carmel focuses on dinner service only.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes—several vegetable-driven dishes appear on the tasting progression, though not a full vegetarian tasting menu.
Vegan options: Limited—some courses can be modified, but diners seeking fully plant-based tasting menus should confirm in advance.
Gluten-free options: Yes—many dishes can be adapted, and staff are accustomed to gluten-free requests; some breads may not be replaceable.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes—its moody lighting, refined pacing, and immersive counter seats create a memorable setting without feeling intimidating.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Possibly early or late in the evening, but prime windows book out for the Odyssey Tasting Menu. Walk-ins may face a wait or limited seating options.
Is it kid-friendly? Not particularly—the multi-course tasting format and dim, adult-leaning atmosphere suit teens and above rather than young children.
Best For
Better for: Stylish Mediterranean tasting menus that feel celebratory but not overly formal, with standout wood-fired breads and a theatrical chef’s-counter experience.
Skip if: You want large à la carte portions, extremely quiet dining rooms, or a fully vegetarian/vegan tasting menu with extensive substitutions.
Carmel
8.6
Vibes:
Date Night Magic
Birthday & Celebration Central
Trendy Table Hotspots
Instagram Worthy Wonders
Carmel is a modern Mediterranean restaurant on Melrose with a dedicated Jaffa Room private dining space, complete with its own bar and AV for tailored events. Menus lean into wood-fired breads, Levantine-inspired plates, and family-style spreads that play well for birthdays, corporate dinners, and tasting-style celebrations.
Must-Try Dishes:
Grandma's Mushroom Cigar, Wood-Fired Pita with Spreads, Slow-Braised Beef Stew
Scores:
Value: 7
Service: 8.3
Consistency: 8.2
Food Quality: 8.9
Atmosphere: 9.1
Cultural Relevance: 7.8
What makes it special: A Tel Aviv–inspired dining room with a fully equipped private Jaffa Room and strong cocktails.
Who should go: Groups wanting stylish Mediterranean plates in a true private room.
When to visit: Peak Friday–Saturday evenings when the room is buzzing.
What to order: Grandma’s Mushroom Cigar, hearth-baked breads, braised beef or lamb specials.
Insider tip: For presentations or speeches, request the Jaffa Room’s AV setup in advance so staff can test it before guests arrive.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Valet is typically available along Melrose ($12–$15); metered street parking exists but fills quickly after 6pm.
Dress code: Smart casual leaning dressy — stylish tops, dark denim, or elevated evening wear fit the room.
Noise level: Moderate to lively; conversations are possible, but peak weekend hours bring a buzzy, high-energy vibe.
Weekend wait: With no reservation, expect to wait 45–75 minutes depending on event volume and private room bookings.
Weekday lunch: Generally little to no wait, though the private room may limit walk-in capacity during scheduled events.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Strong selection — many mezzes, breads, salads, and vegetable plates work well for vegetarians.
Vegan options: Limited but workable — a few vegetable dishes can be adapted; confirm with the kitchen during booking.
Gluten-free options: Several gluten-free options, including proteins and salads; staff can guide substitutions for mezzes and breads.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes — the dim, design-forward room and Mediterranean plates create an intimate but energetic setting, great for impressing without feeling overly formal.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Possible on weeknights but unlikely on weekends. For weekend dinners or any private-room needs, reservations are strongly recommended.
Is it kid-friendly? Best for adults and older teens; the space is moody and geared toward celebrations, with no kids’ menu and limited stroller space.
Best For
Better for: A more polished private dining experience than nearby Mediterranean spots, thanks to the dedicated Jaffa Room, its bar access, and upscale event capabilities.
Skip if: You want a quiet room, budget-friendly pricing, or a menu with extensive vegan options — nearby cafés or more casual Mediterranean spots may be better fits.