Some people come to look at the most stunning ocean views in Carmel, which I did, but then I found the bakery. Carmel Bakery has been baking breads and desserts for over 100 years in the village of Carmel-by-the-Sea.
I bought a freshly made pretzel for the road and a slice of raspberry layered Napoleon. The Napoleon intrigued me because it not only had layers of puff pastry but also sponge cake. This is a premium plus Napoleon in my dessert world!
Not to be missed is the Mission Ranch Inn with it’s serene setting overlooking a sheep pasture. Stay in one of the classic rooms or listen to old timers play the piano in the restaurant. The property is a former dairy and was ready for destruction until Clint Eastwood bought it. He saved the Mission Ranch Inn. It’s a vibrant gathering place where a piano player who wrote musical scores for Eastwood’s movies and another who played Carnegie Hall come in nightly to play and sing around the piano. The food is good, too, whether in the bar or outdoor dining.
I chatted with the regulars who sing along several times during the week and love it. The truck I’m standing by is from the movie The Bridges of Madison County. Yep!
Mission Ranch Inn 26270 Dolores St Carmel, Ca www.Missionranchcarmel.com
Carmel Bakery Ocean Ave Carmel-By-The-Sea, Ca www.cafepepe.com
