Yafa

"This refined but laid-back tapas bar is the perfect spot for a low-key group dinner fueled by traditional tapas like tortilla española, boquerones, and croquetas—though we strongly suggest you save room for the paella del dia. The giant entree is made to order so it takes some extra time, but it’s worth the 25- to 45-minute wait as it arrives at the table with a perfectly crispy-crusty socarrat of caramelized rice at the bottom of the pan. If you’re not sure what to order, let the chef take the wheel and order the raciones, a surprise assortment of tapas, cheese, and cured meats for $85." - allison green

"A lively Mediterranean member of the Monterey dining scene, Yafa keeps it casual with specialty pastas, dips, and kebabs." - Dianne de Guzman, Clair Lorell, Paolo Bicchieri

"This clear hit among locals has even spread to tourists—everyone comes back time and again. The owners bring hospitality to a new level, thanks to a jovial greeting and warm farewells that may involve a hug from the owner. The smell of roasting meats entices passersby with the promise of their excellent kebabs, like deliciously charred yet tender chicken skewered with tomatoes. The Aleppo kafta, combining ground beef and lamb, is richly seasoned and perfectly paired with a side of zippy tzatziki. Be sure to begin any meal with an enormous plate of their mezze, heaped with minty cucumber and tomato salad, hummus as well as a sundried tomato- and feta-dip for scooping up with warm and fluffy pita. Weekends bring a host of live music performances." - Michelin Inspector

"This crowd-pleasing Mediterranean cafe has a flexible menu with mains ranging from $29 to $50, so it’s not too hard on the wallet (at least for pricy Carmel). Yafa is open for lunch on weekends and dinner all week, and we think it’s perfect for lunch among the bright yellow-and-blue interior that makes you feel like you’re on a Greek island. There are lighter dishes like tabouli, dolmas, and watermelon-feta salad, as well as more substantial mains like kebabs, racks of lamb, and a hearty vegan cauliflower steak." - Allison Green

"A meal at Yafa feels like dining at your friend’s best dinner party." - Aaron Hutcherson