"Bring a date you want to impress—without looking like you're trying too hard—to this casually chic French-Italian bistro. Scribbled-on chalkboards and hanging copper pots give the place a rustic countryside feel, but the delicate plating and attentive service make it clear you’re in Carmel. Start with a couple of hors d’oeuvres, like the spinach gnocchi and the Provençal mushrooms with Pernod and hazelnut-garlic butter, and then split one of their fantastic wood-fired pizzas. La Bicyclette is where you want to be for a romantic yet unpretentious lunch before heading to the beach or strolling through town." - allison green, clara hogan