"Carmel Valley Ranch is one of those fancy resorts for people who care about golf courses designed by famous players and experiential things like falconry. Yes, falconry. If you want to experience the 500-acre property without throwing down for an overnight stay, visit the lobby restaurant. Their dining room is anchored by a stone fireplace, with comfy plaid banquettes and leather bar stools. The hill views alone are worth the trip, but the food—made from produce from the property’s garden, as well as housemade honey, cheese, and wine (they even have a resident salt maker)—reminds you that you’re visiting a real working ranch. Their goat cheese ravioli with lobster in a cream sauce will have you scraping the plate." - allison green, clara hogan
