Tuck Box

If you're wandering through the charming shopping areas of Carmel, you may stumble upon some delightful breakfast spots that are just waiting to be discovered. While exploring the quaint streets, I decided to ask a few locals for their recommendations. Although some suggestions were decent, they didn't quite meet my cravings. Then, one friendly lady directed me to an adorable little Christmas cottage nestled across the street. Intrigued, I decided to check it out. The cottage is cozy and quaint, featuring just about six tables inside and a few more outside, creating an intimate dining experience. Just a heads up—it's cash only, so be prepared when you visit! The atmosphere was perfectly festive and warm, embodying a delightful Christmas vibe that made my breakfast even more enjoyable. I treated myself to a plate of mouthwatering waffles paired with crispy bacon, and let me tell you, it was absolutely delicious! If you're in the mood for a cozy breakfast experience full of charm, don’t miss out on this hidden gem in Carmel. You never know what delightful culinary surprises await you!

Such a charming little spot! We stopped by The Tuck Box because my wife just had to go and she was interested in their high tea, which we didn’t get to try this time, but it’s definitely on our list for next visit. We came for breakfast and ordered a Benedict. They didn’t have any gluten-free options, but the staff were super kind and made it work by serving it over fresh tomato slices for my wife. Had some coffee and the cozy cottage vibes made it all feel like a scene out of a storybook. The space itself is adorablem great light during the day. Just a heads-up: it’s cash only, so plan ahead before you go. All in all, a sweet, breakfast spot with friendly service. Can’t wait to come back and experience their high tea next time. ☕️

Cute fairytale cottage restaurant. We had breakfast there and the food was ok. We had Benedict eggs and omelet. The server seemed tired and upset. Its nice to try once in your life, but aside from the aesthetic it doesn't offer much for food. They also only take cash. The cottage itself is pretty small so big groups can be harder to accommodate.

Exactly what you want from a local breakfast joint. Cozy, charming, great food and friendly service. Cute Christmas decor around the holidays. The Benedict and the scone were stand out. Cash only is the only downside. Highly recommend!

What a special cozy little spot! We enjoyed being tucked into the Tuck Box!! The Scottish scones with orange marmalade, berry preserves, and clotted cream with a nice cup of English breakfast was just what we needed! Wonderful service. Don’t forget your cash! They don’t take cards.

This place was recommend by our bike tour guide. He said the eggs Benedict is really good here, he was not wrong. It was as cute as it looks from the outside and the food was delicious. The waiter was very nice and cheerful. Note that they only take cash, fortunately I traveled with some for just such a reason.

Excellent Tea and (home made) Scones. Stop in to experience an English tradition. Just need to add a few fly traps. They know where the good tastings are.

Was there mid morning for coffee and scones. Not crowded. No special coffees. Scones were good. Homemade jams. Cash only.

Beautiful place!!!! Very cozy!! Is a little magical house where you can have an amazing breakfast . The service is great and the food is very good.

So we decided on breakfast across the way at this little cute cafe called me Tuck Box. It was raining hard so there was no option to sit outside but that was okay. Came inside and was quickly greeted and told to give them a moment to clean the table. So we sat down in the chairs and noticed there were menus on the chairs . Took a look at them and had them in our hands , then our waitress said table was ready called. At the same she also told us sharply just leave them there. Mind you, it is a cold rainy morning no coffee yet in my system, So I really had to bite my tongue and not let my day be ruined. I ordered a Olallieberry Mimosa & tuck benedict and the scones that they were famous for. I asked a male staff member, "What type of scone is it?" He says it's s scottish scone. I didn't know what it was but I was intrigued. He also said that they make their own jams. They brought out both this orange marmalade jam and Olallieberry jam with some whipped butter. It's definitely not a traditional english scone. Warm & too sweet. A fried crunch on the outside. It was edible with the Berry jam and butter. It was not for me unfortunately. I did like the spin on the tuck box Benedict but again I feel the service could have been delievred differently. Let me know if you try it out.

The food and service was absolutely horrible. The ambiance was ruined by a bias treatment towards patrons who were "different" - definite racist undertones to the restaurant. I do not recommend this establishment. Please do not support them.

Walking into this cottage is so fun! It's little, has teapots all over the place, a really cool window sill seating area. Just so much charm!!! We were the only ones there... For about 10 minutes and then the place got busy. We were able to sit in the window seating area and watch everybody as they walked by. We started our breakfast with a ollala-berry mimosa. It was delicious! My friend and I decided to share the eggs Benedict so that we could not feel so bad about ordering two scones. The Benedict was delicious. It didn't come with potatoes or anything. It was two eggs Benedict on English muffin, but it was delicious. The scones were amazing. I think the jams that come with the scone really makes it special. Without the jams, they don't have too much flavor, but they're supposed to go together. It also comes with whip cream that tasted like it was homemade. The people that work there are super friendly and if they're not too busy, will sit and have a conversation. They are hard workers and super nice. They have a little seating area outside that you can sit at if it's too busy or if it's a beautiful day and you just want to sit outside and have breakfast. Will definitely be back when I go back to Carmel next year

Cute little English tea shop in the heart of Carmel and it turned out to be a great place for us to get a little breakfast while the power was out at our hotel and most other places in town. They have a great breakfast menu but my eye went straight to the scone. They deliver this one a little differently than any other scone I've had in the US or Uk. Cooked in a skillet and served in wedges, it's hot and buttery. It's almost like a cornbread but not quite. Different but good and great on a cold rainy morning with hot tea or coffee. Definitely try it . They serve lunch as well and close at 3pm. Also breakfast cocktails and wine and beer. It was a good fix of Carby goodness . The service was a little slack and unfriendly. Maybe she was having a bad day with the power being out in town. Who knows . Food was good though !

Super whimsical and cute inside. The scones and house made jams were out of this world! Cozy inside and small menu, but everything we had was great. It looks like it was taken out of a fairytale book. Service was very good!

Solid 3 star experience! We brought our yellow lab and asked to sit in their small patio which has about 4 tables. Fortunately there wasn't a wait when we stopped in around 1pm on a Saturday. The service was a little slow but I think it's consistent with the small time vibe. For whatever reason I can't get my picture of the scone to load but that was my favorite item of the day! The Benedict and the rarabit were both good as well. There just wasn't anything particularly special about them. The patio had a nice succulent garden to complement the cottage aesthetic. We felt like we were in a fairytale! My only complaint is that it's cash only so be prepared to bring the bacon!

This place was awesome the people are great and the food even better . I had the eggs Benedict wow it's was tasty and a side of scones with their fruit preserves . Those damn scones are to die for crunch chewy it's perfect. The wife had just the scones with preserves. Now the coffee is fantastic just right not to strong but perfect I had it black had about 3 cups and the atmosphere and the whole setting outside eating on a perfect weather day was amazing anyway we had a great breakfast and great time down there

The building is darling, clean and the environment perfect. The service is friendly and fast. The food was a mix. The salad was very good, the scones were more like cake.

Very cool ambiance. Food was very average. Best thing I had was a Bloody Mary. Staff were very nice and we did not have to wait on a Sunday morning.

We were able to walk in and get a table by the window. It was the first week of December and the whole town is much slower that week. My parents told me the lines can be long to eat here! Such a cute place. It is small and cozy. You feel like you are in a different country. Cute tea pots displayed around a fireplace. We got the Eggs Benedict, Tuck Box Benedict and two cheese omelettes. All very tasty. The scones are so good. We were told all scones are made fresh. Unlike dry, hard scones, these are more eggy and soft. Pairs great with their jams and whipped cream.

Cash only! The food is ok and service could be better but it's the environment that makes this place unique! The way it's shaped and the decor inside is very cute. Thomas Kinkade loved this place so much that he painted it! We arrived when it opened at 7:30am on a Saturday and absolutely no one was there! We got to choose where we sat and chose by the window. The eggs benedict was delicious. I was disappointed that the earl grey tea was literally a tea pack. The "scone" is more like a toast and it was good but just not what you expect. The berry jam was ok but the lemon jam was wayyy too sour! Cream was better with the jams but I can't have too much because I'm lactose sensitive. Overall, food was just OK. I can see why service was scored so low because we came in and said "hello?" So many times and even walked up to the kitchen to get someone to see us....kinda ridiculous. The lady/host was nice but not friendly. I would have preferred to try other food/restaurant and just take pictures with the building. That's how average the food was and disappointing.

The reason for my three stars is the scone and homemade jams. Despite the other reviews on here, I do believe it's the best thing on the menu. However the cash only thing is super annoying and it's a $7 minimum. Overall the service is okay, we've been here 3-4 times every time we come to Carmel and there's one server that does make the experience miserable. She has never once been in a good mood everytime we've visited. Ambiance is to die for if you like cottage-core and cute vibes.

The only way this restaurant could improve is if it was shut down. The service was abysmal - maybe it's a management problem.

The tea and food were great! It is a tiny establishment so you are in close proximity of other tables. The staff leads a calm relaxing ambiance. The outdoor seating is bigger and lots of greenery. The bathroom is very tiny but so unique. Would come back again with girlfriends for brunch.

Note: Wow, they are still cash only here. It's a very touristy area with lots of free 2-hour public street parking nearby. The place has been here for years now. Arrived after 9:30 AM on a Monday morning. No lines, but there were definitely large groups already sitting inside during breakfast jours. 5/5 for the tiny old fashioned cottage storybook feeling restaurant space. Patio seating outdoors available. Cute, cozy, friendly, and unique. The place is well decorated with teapots, teacups, and other colorful gifts. Their special scones is a must have at 5/5 rating. Absolutely delicious with cream and fruit jams. I never had this type of scone that tastes like cornbread before. So far so good. Good vibes. Photogenic spots. 4/5 for serving of food portions, food presentation, hot pot of tea in the floral pot, and simple to read menu. I actually did enjoy the taste of their hot tea here. Tea was soaked in lots of tea leaves, but they do give you a strainer for it. It's the English tea or afternoon snack party feeling. 3/5 for slower service and greeting at the door/hit or miss experience as they can get very busy inside this small restaurant serving many customers. They gave me the seat in front/next to the busy water closet/restroom, so it definitely changed the mood a bit. Tuck Box Benedict was average, but tasted good enough for a hungry appetite. Droopy eggs with bacon/ham. Not too bad, but it could have been much better. Maybe if only it came with some potatoes or fruits? That would be desirable. Very decent food prices. Overall rating is between a 3.7-4.2 to be exact. Great location. I'll have to revisit to get new experiences and vibes next time. Those scones with the hot tea were a very delicious combo for sure. I wish they would have more pastries/snacks on the menu. The place is small enough for small bites.

Sweet small place. I enjoyed brunch with my friends. Server was very nice. I loved the Jack & Avocado omelette & the side of bacon was delicious. Best omelette I've ever had. Taking the hubs there soon.

Awful service here. we waited over an hour in line only to find they'd stopped taking tables 30 mins prior. Zero communication from the staff. There's only like 7 tables inside so it's not like they're overworked. They stopped service before 1:00 pm, though they're allegedly open till 2:30. One person who was finishing also said they were out of eggs, turkey, salmon and several other things. Skip it.

The scone is absolutely bollocks. For the cafe to consider itself an english restraurant, it seems extremely unreasonable that the menu describes the scone as "the Tuck Box scone" which would have u expecting a crispy exterior and a slightly doughy but crumbly inner, only to be met with a soft spongy tea cake described as " the scottish scone". They arent even the same country. If you're looking for a real english scone, don't try this place.

This might be the most beautiful breakfast I've ever had. It's like a little jewel box very French. Eggs and scones. Homemade jam. Great tea. Lovely service. Cash only.

If you're seeking a whimsical brunch experience with a touch of British charm, this place is an absolute gem! Nestled within fairy tale-like architecture, this enchanting café offers both indoor seating and adorable patio tables. Their breakfast menu is a delightful surprise, as they serve it until 2 pm. The authentic British flavors truly shine, and I couldn't resist trying their famous Welsh Rarebit--a scrumptious dish I always misinterpreted as something involving a cooked bunny (thankfully, it doesn't!). The flavors were rich, satisfying, and oh-so-comforting. The ambiance transports you to another era, with its fairy tale-inspired architecture that feels straight out of a storybook. It's a visual feast for the eyes! Just remember to bring some cash along, as they accept cash payments only. Additionally, be aware of the minimum spend of $7 per person, which is reasonable given the quality and experience this place offers. Overall, I highly recommend this charming brunch spot. The combination of indoor and cute patio tables, the delightful British menu, and the fairytale atmosphere create a truly enchanting dining experience. Don't miss the chance to indulge in a bit of magic while savoring a delightful breakfast! Note: This review is based on my personal experience and preferences. Your experience may vary.

The Tuck Box is incredible! My boyfriend and I had such a great meal, and loved how kind the staff were. The decor was so cute, and made me feel like I was in a fairytale. Their scones are a must-try!!

This place is a Carmel treasure. My wife and I always visit whenever we are in the area. We came when we were dating, brought our kids here, and now we are visiting in our late 40's. However I am afraid it will be brought down by just one unpleasant waitress. There were two waitresses working that day, a dark haired middle aged woman and a young lighter hair woman. The darker haired lady served us and I can only say that she exudes the most negative visceral hatred that permeates the room (too much?). Makes you feel rushed, unwanted, and ruins the magical experience that is the Tuck Box. It is almost enough to make you not want to come back. But I can't quit you, you delicious scone with homemade jelly!

I'm guessing people come for the unique architecture, because the food was just okay. My husband got a sandwich. Not a bad sandwich, but it was just a sandwich and they got the side order wrong. I got the Welsh rarebit eggs Benedict. Not sure if it's supposed to be that way but it was oddly gritty and lukewarm. We did come half hour before closing so I can understand why, but the person waiting on us looked a little angry and impatient. I would try somewhere else for food next time.

This place is a nice and cute spot. I felt the service was great, and I was thoroughly impressed with the decor there that matched the season, especially during my road trip. I felt welcomed, even though it is cash only, I was glad because I got to walk the surrounding area and Carmel is a lovely city to go out and about. Food was tasty, I'd 100% recommend, don't forget to carry cash on hand! :) PS: Don't be that tourist that takes a selfie outside without actually eating there, try the food! Lol

Before heading home we drop by in this cute little resto to have our breakfast. The instagrammable cute reto outside, its like a fairytale house. Simple food and they don't accept credit cards. So don't forget to being some cash.

the homey ambiance is so comforting, try their signature scones with the homemade whipped cream, truly unmatched

We went there for the cute inside and outside. The food was delicious and reasonably priced compared to all other over priced restaurants in Carmel. We had waffles, omelets and sunny side up eggs with potatoes and crispy bacon. The staff were friendly and fast. The bathroom was correctly labeled as the water "closet". The only drawback was it doesn't accept credit cards.

The Tuck Box is so Cute & is a Fantastic Place to have Breakfast! The Food is Really Good & service is Excellent!

The absolutely best breakfast ever! Worth driving all the way from LA highly recommend everyone to try it

Our server was great and we appreciated that the restaurant only accepted cash. I remember eating here as a kid and it did not disappoint. Beautiful experience!

Came here 10//8/22 for my daughters Birthday, as we come here every year as a special mommy and me only day. As always we were not disappointed. We decided to each start off with a scone with tea and share some bacon. My daughter was sooo hungry she asked if we could order another scone and have another to go. So since it was her special day I obliged. Our waitress was AMAZING and attentive . If you haven't been here it's a must while in Carmel. They have some very fun and unique teapots. They're scones are to die for and cone with whipped cream, Ollie berry jam and orange marmalade. It's in a quaint little house very reminiscent of cottages you may see in Europe.

I have been going to the Tuck Box for 60 plus years, how sad to see this tradition deteriorate to rudeness and mediocrity! The young girl waitress was charming and kind, the older lady (probably owner) was incredibly rude, asked us 4 times if she could clear our plates while we were eating. her unkind method to hasten our exit. The food was average, no flavor Hollandaise sauce. They purposefully publish an old menu on their web site, prices have nearly doubled and clearly they want you to arrive thinking a good deal is awaiting you. The final straw, they refused credit cards, no where was this rule visible to customers, clearly tax is a consideration here. I never will return to my old favorite. I don't understand how people like this end up in a people oriented service industry. Good luck Tuck Box!

A tiny place with sweet ambiance. This cottage was a delightful stop on our visit to Carmel. Breakfast was lovely and included tasty eggs Benedict. The scones are their specialty so don't forget to order one to share.

We wanted to check out Carmel by the sea and we were craving brunch, this was one of the few places still serving brunch after 11am (still blows my mind that places would stop serving brunch at 11am). The ambiance itself is very cute and adorable, like being in a whimsical caricature. The food was good but definitely overpriced and it sucked that they took cash only. Service was also weird, each time I would ask a question, I would get a condescending tone. Their scone is good though, especially with the purple marmalade but its not your typical scone.

Located in downtown Carmel, this restaurant is small and very into it but yet has everything you need for a great experience. The staff is awesome and are constantly making sure you're doing well. The decor is unique and it feels like you are eating a a family friends house. The food was very good! Potatoes and Eggs Benedict 9/10 Scone with Jams 10/10 * FYI- they only take cash here! They have an ATM onsite for your liking. *Parking can be difficult as they only have street parking

Part of 6 and very well taken care of! We have been here before a few years ago and had a great experience but after reading the reviews were kind of worried, Hilda took great care of us and in addition to great service we had great food, hands down recommend the tuck box!

There are a bunch of nasty reviews for this restaurant from people concerned for their safety during Covid; they claim this restaurant doesn't care. If you feel that this restaurant doesn't care, you should probably go eat at another restaurant. No one is forcing you to eat somewhere that you don't feel safe. If you also feel like the staff and/or owner have an unprofessional attitude with their bias towards Governor Newsom, you don't have to eat at this restaurant. As for me, I will gladly eat somewhere that I can enjoy my food without having to wear a face diaper ESPECIALLY when I am sitting OUTSIDE.....taking in the FRESH AIR. This restaurant had great food and AMAZING customer service. I also got a kick out of the staff's attitude towards the governor of California. P.S. I think it's good to take into account what business owners have lost during this pandemic. Many have had their livelihoods lost due to the incompetence and lack of action from Newsom and the state of California. P.S. Part 2 Remember when we were told that hospitalizations and positive test rates were the most important metrics for understanding the state of COVID? Yeah, both are extremely low right now (deaths per day are also low despite the definition) so they are no longer relevant. Again, if you don't like the business practices of this restaurant, you don't have to go.

Cool little place for breakfast. The service was amazing and the food was great too. I would go back the next time we are in town

Food was amazing and very tasty even the scones are to die for. Waitress was very attentive don't know why people are complaining about.

They're cash only or you pay via Zelle, completely under staffed, the food is average diner food (although the prices are reasonable so you aren't over paying for average diner food), and the "scones" are actually slices of deep fried corn bread - this made me the most angry, followed by the 20 min it took to just pay the bill because there's only one woman who gives you what seems to be her private cell number to input to Zelle, and then she has you sit there until the transaction processes and finally has a moment to swing by and confirm. Super under staffed so this all takes forever. It's really dumb management though because even if for some reason you are a large business who doesn't take credit cards DURING COVID (which is irresponsibl), you should just have Venmo or Zelle codes printed on your menu. Also, they should Google what a scone is. Overall, the building is cute but don't fall for it - as a restaurant this place is a disappointment on the most basic levels. There are dozens of alternative options in Carmel which won't ruin your morning.

The service was great and place was cute. However the food was way overpriced and awful. Not coming back. Definitely I won't recommend this place.

We were initially taken by the adorable look of this magical little cottage and excited to eat breakfast there. Then when we read the reviews we were a little wary... But after eating there, we cannot understand why anyone would give this place less than 5 stars! We were immediately sat at the coziest table and were served hot coffee within minutes by the friendly waitress. Our kids got hot chocolate served out of a cute blue bird pitcher. We had yummy Belgian waffles, scrambled eggs, bacon, and, of course, their signature scones. They are very unique and a family recipe from 1941 according to our waitress. They were super yummy with the fresh made jams and hand whipped cream. We were delighted with our experience, and my son says it was one of the best restaurants he's been to in his life. He really liked that waffle A perfectly quaint Carmel breakfast spot!

Food was okay. Service was not good. Mandatory service fee of 20% that isn't disclosed in the menu. And when asked if tip is included she said no LOL. Nonsense rules like minimum spend amount per person. Also cash only but at least that one was mentioned on the menu.

Tuck box: A cute shop We dropped by the Tuck Box in Carmel on the way to Big Sur because my boyfriend had their scones once and thought I would really like them too. I was intrigued since who can say no to good scones?  When we arrived the store front, I Immediately adored this little shop. Everything had rounded edges and all features had fine craftsmanship. It Kinda reminded me of the Els 4Gats cafe from Barcelona, and that brought a smile to my face.  Due to our time restrictions, we ordered scones to go. However, customers could still dine in at that time. We ordered two scones that tasted more like a heartier artisan bread, and I liked it. I smeared on the berry, orange marmalade, and fresh cream topping and all were delicious. My boyfriend didn't like the marmalade as much because it has a bitter aftertaste to it, but I found it quite nice since it added a layer of complexity. You gotta eat them while they are hot though. We saved a few to eat later, and it didn't taste the same. If I have a chance to visit Carmel again, I'd make a reservation and have a proper breakfast or afternoon tea.

There are a gazillion better food options in Carmel. Service is horrible. The waitress was rude and grumpy and it looks like other reviewers state the same. The only thing that's decent here is the raspberry jam.

Waiting to be seated is part of eating out. However standing there for considerable time and not being acknowledged is difficult because I know I'm about to pay a premium for breakfast. After sitting down we were left with just menus and no offer of coffee which.. should be an obvious thing to ask. After waiting again for 10 minutes and no acknowledgment or offers for a beverage while we wait... we left. I came back 6 months later and... had the same experience. I was just about to leave again and the server came up just in time. I ordered. Food was good. Breakfast is hard to screw up, some places manage to do so, this place did not. So the food was well prepared and fast. It only takes a split second to say 'we'll be right with you'. It buys considerable time when seating a customer and saying 'can we get you started with some coffee'. It is important to check back at least once after bringing out the food. These are just basic skills this staff have not displayed 2 times in a row. I'm giving this place 2 stars and will come back in another 3 months to see if they have upped their service to match today's 'let's eat out' prices. Stay tuned...

My daughter and I were looking forward to eating here but the "angry with life" waitress ruined it. Tiny waiting area. No room to wait. Have to continually shuffle for customers exiting and leaving. Waited for 5 minutes, then politely asked waitress if my name could be put on list. She was very annoyed that I even asked and told me "I'm busy, in a bit," then she abruptly walked away. The place is tiny and I'd have to move continually for customers exiting and entering. Waited another 5 minutes then she gruffly asked me the number of my party. I said 2 and she turned and walked away. No estimates- nothing. Wanted to wait outside (was tired of shuffling around) so just wanted to know how long it might be. I waited another 5 minutes and then politely, kindly asked her an estimate so I could wait outside, which only helps the restaurant and it's patrons. She very angrily said "I don't know and could you stop bothering me?!?!" Other customers waiting were shocked, as was I. We promptly left. This place has so much potential. Sadly, the interior of the restaurant has been neglected and desperately needs a paint job. Could be a magical eating experience there- but it's so run down. And sadly, at 10 am in the morning, this waitress was also very run down and hating her job/life.

We had a delightful brunch here with a friend. I opted for the avocado and Jack omelette with scones in the side. The omelette was light and fluffy and the scones were awesome. These aren't what you normally get, they are soft, buttery and chewy. When paired with the fresh jam - outstanding! The ambiance is so great in itself. Stop in and check it out.