Chez Noir
Restaurant · Carmel-by-the-Sea ·
Seafood-centric modern bistro with French technique & local ingredients
Seafood-centric modern bistro with French technique & local ingredients
"The welcoming effect of housing Jonny and Monique Black’s restaurant Chez Noir in the same space as their literal home — the couple lives above the Carmel-By-The-Sea restaurant — is unmatched in both hospitality and food. (1 star)" - Eater Staff
"Jonny and Monique Black are the force behind this charming spot, where he acts as Chef and she oversees the service team. While the two have an abundance of fine dining bona fides, here they aim for something more approachable. The inviting, hospitable atmosphere makes perfect sense, given that the second floor of this Craftsman-style residence is where the pair makes their home. The cooking has a broadly Mediterranean sensibility, showcasing the bounty of the California coast with the likes of impeccably prepared abalone and skate. A prix fixe format gives diners a handful of choices, but there really aren’t any bad options. As a finale, ethereal vanilla-scented canelés offer an ideal balance between a crisp, caramelized exterior and a creamy, custardy interior." - Michelin Inspector
"Deemed a must when exploring the region’s farm-to-table cuisine crafted from Californian homegrown produce." - Elise Taylor
"A Michelin-recognized restaurant focused on hyperlocal produce and Central Coast seafood, presenting refined, ingredient-driven dishes that showcase regional flavors." - Leilani Marie Labong Leilani Marie Labong Leilani Marie Labong is a San Francisco-based journalist who focuses on food, design, and travel. Her work has been featured in Elle Decor, Travel + Leisure, House Beautiful, Sunset, Food52, Food & Wine, The Kitchn, and Architectural Digest. Travel + Leisure Editorial Guidelines
"Husband-and-wife co-owners chef Jonny Black and Monique Black bring years of cooking at Michelin-starred destinations to their hotly anticipated debut restaurant. Opening in October 2022, the restaurant showcases Jonny’s cooking chops in dishes that showcase the abundance of local ingredients including uni-topped spaghetti alla chiatarra and an abalone sausage stuffed chicken wing." - Paolo Bicchieri