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Aubergine the restaurant at L'Auberge Carmel Carmel-by-the-Sea Reviews
One of the best dining experiences of my life.
From customer care, expert wine knowledge and incredible food this establishment has raised the bar for the culinary world. The Chef is a visionary, allowing his art to wow the eyes with colors and textures that jump from the plate. He pushes the envelope on flavor pairings such as steak with anchovy, which one would think is strange but boy does it work. Every dish was superb even down to the homemade bread which was the perfect crunch to soft. The cook on the proteins was perfect and the duck was out of this world. It brings me great joy to see a Chef's love for his craft be presented in every bite. And Bravo for exploring flavors and textures and bringing us the unexpected- this truly shows you are a master of your craft. Simply one of the best meals of my life. If you are ready for some magic with some unexpected turns you, my friend, have come to the right place.
I usually write only positive news about a business;
I usually write only positive news about a business; however, for the price we paid and based on the number of Michelin stars (two) this restaurant has, I believe I need to share this frank review. My husband and I were on our honeymoon, expecting to enjoy a memorable dinner, but we'll remember our meal as an expensive waste rather than a pleasant memory. We ordered the seven course meal with the wine pairing, but I was dismally disappointed by the wine portion of the meal. I discovered sediment in my first glass of wine. I could have conceivably overlooked this incident, but the bottom of the replacement glass I received ALSO had sediment. After I reported this second wine's undrinkable state to the waiter, one of the sommeliers then asked us what our favorite wine was, leading me to believe we would at least be provided with a complimentary glass of that wine to compensate us for the two wasted glasses. Alas, I was mistaken and the final bill remained unadjusted for the unpotable wine. I also felt cheated out of the entire wine portion of the meal based on the practically nonexistent wine servings. We certainly won't be returning and would advise anyone considering a visit to not waste their money.
I rarely write reviews, but this experience needs to be
I rarely write reviews, but this experience needs to be shared. My wife has Type 1 diabetes, a serious medical condition that can sometimes create emergencies outside of our control. We had to cancel our reservation for health reasons--and instead of showing basic compassion, this restaurant decided to charge us a full charge cancellation fee including food and 22% gratuity. I understand a cancellation for food prep but to be hit with tax and tip for something outside of my control is a little egregious. When I called to explain the situation, the woman on the phone was shockingly rude and completely lacking in empathy. Not only was there no understanding, but her tone made it clear that we were nothing more than an inconvenience. Hospitality should come with humanity, not a cold script and a credit card charge. I understand that restaurants want to protect their business, but penalizing someone for a legitimate medical emergency--and treating them rudely on top of it--is beyond disappointing. There are plenty of restaurants that value their guests and treat them like people, not transactions. Sadly, this establishment has made it very clear where their priorities lie, and we will not be returning.
Just finished a very enjoyable meal at Aubergine, where I
Just finished a very enjoyable meal at Aubergine, where I last dined almost a decade ago. Things have evolved quite a bit, though there are some throughlines between my prior experience and this one. Food was very strong overall, with several standout courses and one disappointing one. This price point and two-star Michelin status set a high bar, and my rating should be taken in that context. The highlights included beef that was among the very best beef I've had, including both the ribeye and the pricey add-on wagyu. (Eight years ago, my meal also included filet mignon that was among the best bites I'd had.) The beef was accompanied by excellent little sourdough boules finished with beef fat and butter with a beef gelee; the protein, fat, and carb combination of this course was deeply satisfying. A duck course was also excellent. And meal-ending chocolates were excellent. Other courses we also enjoyed quite a bit included scallops that were very good, though the tomatoes with which they were paired outshone them. A tilefish course was also very good, with crispy scales, though the broth with which it was served felt like the flavor could have been dialed up a notch, for my palate; the rice and peanut XO sauce served with it were very satisfying. The dessert was surprisingly disappointing for everyone at the table. It was a panna cotta, substituted with a coconut milk variant for me, given my dairy issues. Both the panna cotta and what accompanied it had mild, flat flavors, everyone at the table was underwhelmed. Dessert is such an important close to the meal, this felt like a real missed opportunity. It actually rose to the level where I considered sending it back, though I decided not to do that on this occasion. And thankfully the meal concluded with truffles that were excellent. Wine pairings were consistently outstanding. And I appreciated that they were delicious, not just intellectually interesting, a trap into which sommeliers sometimes seem to fall. And while I appreciated the somm's enthusiasm, I would have dialed back the lectures a little, and focused a bit more on why the pairings were chosen and a bit less on making the case for the wines' cachet. Service was solid. Being initially seated in the bar area, not offered water or anything else there, before being moved to the dining room felt a bit off. (The last time, eight years back, we were offered complimentary champagne there; I expected that again, and would have encouraged it today.) At times a little more feedback on how to eat the food--e.g. how to sequence--would have been welcome. The wagyu upsell midmeal--where a big hunk of gorgeous wagyu was brought to the table and a very expensive upsell was offered--felt a bit off to me, and I was conscious it put a lot of pressure on the meal's host. On a more positive note, the chef, Justin Cogley, visiting every table was a nice touch.
Phenomenal food with portions that'll leave you fighting to
Phenomenal food with portions that'll leave you fighting to finish your meal in the best way possible. Service was amazing, its always a great experience to have the chefs explain their food to you and the best ways to eat them. It gives you an appreciation for the art of it all. Attention to detail was not lost on me and the intimate environment made us feel well cared for. Flavors are some that Ive never before had and make me eager to return again for more.
TL;DR - wonderful fine dining experience, service struck
TL;DR - wonderful fine dining experience, service struck that perfect balance of warm, professional, elegant, and personal. Food was wonderful - impeccable presentation, interesting and daring choices. Wine pairings were very well explained, most well paired with the cuisine. Longer: We stayed at L'auberge (the hotel in which Aubergine is hosted) and thus had a no-travel experience. Dining room is very small and intimate (5 tables total, all occupied at our seating), and two seatings per evening. Dress code is business casual, and all but one of the other parties honored that. As we'd dined the evening prior at Chez Noir (also recommended) we were not up for a full 7 course wine pairing, and staff offered shared pairing for my wife and I...perfect for us that evening and a perfect way to enjoy the pairing selections without being over served. This review will not attempt to provide detailed descriptions of every course. Suffice to say you will not be disappointed at the 2 Michelin Star choices to develop and execute a wide variety of unique culinary choices and selections. Some of the selections skew Asian on the taste palette, but the overall vibe is "pan-American" if that makes sense. Our associate sommelier provided lengthy descriptions of each of the wine courses (including, at one point, the note that the origin vineyard is adjacent to where Cardinal Richelieu obtained his grapes...The Three Musketeers, anyone?). In most cases, the wine was a delightful complement to the accompanying course. If you note a small bit of reservation here, I would offer that the most perfect pairings I have ever experienced were at the storied Chez Panisse; in that case, each pairing seamlessly married with the course, and brought out nuances in both the wine and the food which you might not pick up on their own. I have yet to experience as powerful a soup-to-nuts pairing experience...although Aubergine's was far closer than many of the attempts I've had over the years. I'll be reviewing the other Michelin-lauded restaurant (afore mentioned Chez Noir) separately - both are highly recommended for diners who would like to experience a dining "event" and want to spend the cheddar these kinds of places demand these days.
My wife and I were on a quick trip to Carmel and then San
My wife and I were on a quick trip to Carmel and then San Francisco and were lucky to get a reservation at Aubergine. We reserved the 8:00 pm seating. Arrived about 15 mins early and they sat us in this quaint sitting area (may also be hotel lobby?) around the small bar area. We ordered some pre dinner cocktails from the cool little bar. The bartender was awesome and the drink menu was extensive. We were taken to our table promptly at 8:00. The dining room is small and cozy, with just 5 tables. In our case, each table had 2 people seated, so only a total of 10 diners, so very intimate. I think they can seat up to 4 people at 2 or 3 of the tables, so imagine it is always pretty quiet. Once seated we were quickly met by numerous staff ready to explain the menu and drink options. The service was over the top - attentive but not at all "pushy" or intrusive. Super professional. I won't go into details on the food...I will post some pics. Bottom line, the food was amazing. Exactly what we were looking for - an elegant but not pretentious tasting menu executed to perfection. It's clear why this place has 2 Michelin stars. They are well deserved. We also got the "reserve" wine pairing with our meals and were treated to some amazing wines, many of which had some nice age on them. Thank you to the entire staff for such a memorable night. Next time we are in town we will definitely be back.
Tucked away in the beautiful Carmel by the sea downtown
Tucked away in the beautiful Carmel by the sea downtown area, this restaurant and this dinner experience was a pleasant surprise. Cozy small dining area with merely five or so tables, offering two dinner services, this place was such an amazing and intimate dining experience. Service was flawless and food was beyond expectations. The first course starts with 5 small bite sized dishes, one topped by other. Then goes on to oyesters, fishes, duck, wagyu, and what not! The desserts were nice but maybe leaves more room for creativity! Chef Justin Cogley came to serve every table a few times :) Definitely worth coming back for!
Lovely experience and friendly staff.
I believe it was 7-8 courses. Ordered non alcoholic drinks and asked for bartenders choice and absolutely loved my drink! Favorite of the night was the fish course with a broth and peanut xo sauce over rice. The strawberry shortbread cake was also a favorite as the flavors were delicious. Wagyu was an extra addition and sadly was too fatty for me.
装潢 食器 味道 分量 食材搭配 用餐舒适度
装潢 食器 味道 分量 食材搭配 用餐舒适度 订位难易度... 都给了我再访的动力 2021 Weingut Keller Westhofener Brunnenhauschen 'Abts Erde' Riesling Grosses Gewäch Flörsheim-Dalsheim 德国弗勒斯海姆-达尔斯海姆市镇 清甜可人的果香、淡雅自然的白花，石灰、烟熏，丰富且微妙的气息，初入口，惊讶于浓烈的柠檬酸，力量感有些超乎想象，第二口的酸度就降低了不少 回温之后的甜越来越突出，酒精所带来的辛辣不断刺激着喉咙，舌尖略微保留了酸涩，脆爽感逐渐增强，细碎的矿物质后来居上，慢慢地与饱满的莓果酸甜融合交织 刺舌感和明亮的酸度持续萦绕，酒体轻盈，余韵却悠长，但是并不满意后半程趋于寡淡的走向，收尾阶段，酒精感依旧，多了一些青苹果的酸甜，咸度也有所展现 配餐很舒服，不失为解腻高手，尤其适合Aubergine这种偏咸却不过度的调味风格 【花团锦簇-开胃小食】 太好看的摆盘果然经不起考验，基本都翻车了... 間塔可｜牛油果 像回南天的墙皮，过厚的质地，叠加返潮的口感，绝对是不想再经历的体验... 太平洋金牡蛎｜螺旋藻奶油 冰凉、咸鲜，质感贼棒！ 鞑靼和牛挞｜蛋黄果酱 外壳梆硬，调味过于大胆，咸翻天，食材本身的味道被完全盖住 蓝鳍金枪鱼｜鱼子酱 普通，咸度收敛了一些 蒙特雷湾鲍鱼｜薄脆 鲍鱼的火候还不错，有些嚼劲，以薄脆为底，增加了几分香脆的口感，然而又败于失衡的超咸调味... 【昆布南瓜｜帕玛森干酪+鱼子酱｜南瓜籽】 同样是用昆布包裹着烹饪的菜肴，私心认为这里比三藩的Saison优秀太多 昆布鲜美的海藻气息直冲鼻腔，南瓜软糯香甜，质地犹如蒸糯米饼一般 酱汁融入了帕玛森干酪、鱼子酱和细香葱，不抢戏的鱼子酱深得我心：爆珠、鲜香、内敛的咸味，起到对主角的衬托作用，而奶酪的浓稠程度比想象中更甚，已经属于油腻糊嘴的程度，同时也带来了巨大的满足 最后撒上用石臼现场锤碎的烤南瓜籽，不仅使得香气飞升，还增加了酥脆的口感 【甘鲷立鳞烧｜茶碗蒸】 鱼鳞过硬，好在保留了鱼肉的鲜美滑嫩 在白出汁的基础上加入柠檬草和姜，着实为点睛之笔，香气独特且迷人，而后又淋上一些明虾头煸出的油，整体调味偏咸，却意外得平衡 茶碗蒸变身成为平铺的样式藏在盘底，口感嫩滑细腻，点缀以少量的玉米奶油，多了一味奶香，好好吃！！！ 【北海道扇贝｜胡萝卜西米露｜鳟鱼籽】 扇贝的鲜甜度过关，口感却令人失望，过于突出的韧劲，需要不断地咀嚼才能吞咽 浓郁、黏稠的胡萝卜汤汁，呈现出让人食欲大增的浅黄色，软糯又有弹性的西米，结合爆珠且咸鲜的鳟鱼籽，完美～ 而几小块胡萝卜本体则生硬无比，直接"原生态"展示的质地和味道，还是那个我讨厌的胡萝卜没错了... 【红糖布里欧修（brown butter brioche）】 醉人的黄油香呼之欲出，外壳酥脆、油光发亮，伴随着细香葱带来的清新气息，内部虽瓷实，却松软均匀，蘸满汤汁简直是神仙美味！！！ 【羔羊鞍｜干式熟成两周】 非常满意 肉质虽不算细嫩，却十分紧实，烤制出的焦香、耐嚼过后的干香，肥肉经过熟成，也去除掉了油腻 搭配来自俄勒冈州(Oregon)的松口蘑，鲜美、多汁、无敌脆，整根的烤葱香死了香死了 油醋汁和羊肉原汁熬成酱，耐人寻味的酸提升了羊肉的鲜美程度，再用一些切成小块的椎茸来增加脆嫩的口感 另一配菜是东京苤蓝（kohlrabi），真的太好吃了，火候恰到好处，质地绵密细腻，软烂中又不失嚼劲 【酸种欧包｜发酵麴菌（Koji）黄油】 含水量很高的面团，外皮烘烤得像长棍饼干那般硬脆，内部组织严密且均匀 单独尝麴菌黄油并没有什么特别，涂抹在欧包上，反而突显了深沉而厚重的香气 【牛肋眼排｜32天干式熟成】 普通牛肉最是能检验出煎制的技术，外表焦脆、内里粉嫩、肉香饱满，可惜带着韧劲，稍微废些时间咀嚼，酱汁中加入了清酒，但是调味比较普通，没有记忆点 茄子酱的优秀程度绝对值得单独享用！！！含在嘴里待其慢慢融化，微甜、奶呼呼、醇厚、柔顺又细腻 【甜品】 似有似无，除了西班牙炸油条，都好无趣啊... 糖渍红宝石苹果｜意式冰沙 ｜白巧克力意式奶冻 红宝石苹果作为最主要的介绍对象，品质确实不错，清脆、水分足 整体印象不深，只记得酸甜爽口 油炸酸种面包 西班牙炸油条 太优秀了！酥脆、温热的外皮，柔软、蓬松的内心，叠加肉桂糖霜的辛香，就算只有这一道小碟收尾，也会是非常满足的程度啊 苦中带甜的巧克力｜海盐焦糖夹心 ｜糖粉奶油细末｜蛋白脆饼 【意式浓缩】 闻着醇香四溢，入口的瞬间受到惊吓，尖锐的酸，还有过萃所带来的苦...
First Michelin experience
Exceeded our expectations. This was our first Michelin Star experience. Have been to many amazing restaurants but can truly see the difference in what they present and the level of detail that goes into every bite. With the restaurant being so small they are really able to give you an incredible service experience. If you are in Carmel, add it to your list of places to eat. My wife and I really enjoy wine but have never been fans of wine pairings. So we did not do the wine pairing. Instead I read a review where someone enjoyed cocktails instead and have to say best decision we made. Their cocktails are some of the best. A couple cocktails and a half bottle of Margaux rounded out the perfect meal.
The best restaurant in the Bay Area
This is the best restaurant in the Bay Area, bar none. It beats even outstanding, three-MIchelin-star restaurants like Benu and Single Thread. There is a good argument it is the best restaurant in the world. Every dish is innovative, beautiful, and above all delicious. The staff is friendly and helpful. We have been many times over the years, and it just keeps getting better
Fabulous
Fantastic food and service!!! Every dish was perfectly made and it was special having the chefs come out to explain the dish. Would totally come back.
Stellar every time!
Aubergine never fails to delight us. This is a stellar restaurant well-deserving of its Michelin star and then some! The service is impeccable from start to finish, with knowledgeable (but not stuffy) sommeliers and servers. The dishes are some of the most beautifully presented dishes I've ever had, each one perfectly plated, some with tiny colorful edible flowers and elegant sauces. The flavors match the beauty of the dishes. The chefs come into the dining room frequently to stop by each table and chat or add a sauce. I love that touch! The menu is Prix Fixe and is not pre-disclosed, but they expertly accommodate any dietary requests or restrictions. I've brought vegetarians, gluten-free, and kosher friends & family in the past, and chef expertly adapts the menu to fit any needs or dislikes if you let them know all the preferences in advance. Still as beautiful & delicious as the standard menu. Wow! Aubergine is a gem in Carmel.
Fly to japan instead
Please do not waste you're money Presentation & service was amazing, but the food was just not up to par for what they're charging Would not recommend The sommelier was amazing & would say enhanced the taste of the dishes. Still overall a 1 star because it truly feels like getting scammed
Chefs head platter "gifts from the sea" carried the entire
Chefs head platter "gifts from the sea" carried the entire Valentine's Day experience for us. Caviar on eggs two ways and souffléd potatoes was probably the most outstanding dish (out of 6) after that head platter...prime rib is the best you'll get as the final entree of a $1000 experience for two, they'll even try to up-charge you mid meal for wagyu! Overall I don't recommend. You can easily attend a matching 1 star Michelin restaurant for half the price and better ingredients. Sad that you pay so much more for the Valentine's Day experience and the best meat they provide is prime rib!
We enjoyed a FABULOUS meal prepared by Chef Justin Cogley
We enjoyed a FABULOUS meal prepared by Chef Justin Cogley and his team. The beauty, skill and care in every dish made for a VERY special evening. A million thanks and congratulations to Chef Cogley and his team. As you can see from the attached photos, this was an incredibly special meal. Deserving of MORE Michelin Stars. The service was perfect (thank you Cyrus) and the wines outstanding (thank you Jahn Haffey - Sommelier) https://www.tripadvisor.com/ShowUserReviews-g32172-d1367785-r942797504-Aubergine_at_L_Auberge_Carmel-Carmel_Monterey_County_California.html#
Amaizing food and service
We enjoyed a FABULOUS meal prepared by Chef Justin Cogley and his team. The beauty, skill and care in every dish made for a VERY special evening. A million thanks and congratulations to Chef Cogley and his team. As you can see from the attached photos, this was an incredibly special meal. Deserving of MORE Michelin Stars. The service was perfect (thank you Cyrus) and the wines outstanding (thank you Jahn Haffey - Sommelier)
Ah, Aubergine in Carmel - a gem nestled in the cozy
Ah, Aubergine in Carmel - a gem nestled in the cozy confines of a smaller restaurant attached to a charming hotel. Patience was the key to securing a table for my wife's birthday; waitlisted on Tock, but the stars aligned, and we found ourselves enveloped in an evening of culinary splendor. The atmosphere at Aubergine is an intimate dance of colors and creativity, a testament to the culinary artistry that lies within. The courses, each a canvas of flavor, were presented with a finesse that echoed the passion of Chef Justin and the chef de cuisine. It's not just a meal; it's a symphony of tastes, a celebration of culinary ingenuity. The service, a crucial companion to the dining experience, was nothing short of exceptional. Attentive without being intrusive, the staff at Aubergine ensured that every moment was savored. The timing of courses was impeccable - a delicate orchestration that allowed us to relish each dish without feeling rushed. Opting for the Sommelier wine pairing was a stroke of genius. The curated selection complemented the dishes flawlessly, enhancing the overall experience. It was a journey through vineyards, a perfect marriage of flavors that elevated the evening to a delightful crescendo. Aubergine, despite its size, resonates with a culinary prowess that transcends expectations. It's not just a restaurant; it's a destination for those who seek a sensory adventure. The wait for reservations, the anticipation - all fade into insignificance once the first course graces your palate. Aubergine is a culinary voyage worth embarking on, a testament to the gastronomic treasures that await the discerning palate. If you're seeking an evening of gastronomic wonder and a celebration of the finest in culinary arts, Aubergine is an experience that lingers in memory long after the plates are cleared. Five stars for a dining escapade that transcends the ordinary, leaving you with a taste of pure excellence.
AMAZING! Every bite was tasty, every dish was thoughtful
AMAZING! Every bite was tasty, every dish was thoughtful and perfectly composed. The service was impeccable, the ambiance was unmatched. As someone that has eaten at all of the 3 star Michelin restaurants in New York (working on the ones in Cali!), I have to say that this eclipses all of them and stands as one of the best meals I have had!
A ripoff
$1000 worth of snob appeal. Not worthy of a Michelin star - and we have eaten at scores of Michelin restaurants in Europe. Nothing measured up. The decor is simple and dull. The amuse bouche was the highlight of the meal. The service was rushed. The food was bland. Just nothing special at all. Our fellow dinners seemed to be from Asia or Silicon Valley millennials who are feel great because of the size of the bill.
We savored every aspect of the 8-course dinner.
The service was exceptional, creating a relaxed ambiance. This restaurant consistently delights; my husband and I have cherished it since before it earned its Michelin star
One of the top 5 restaurants I've ever eaten at, Aubergine
One of the top 5 restaurants I've ever eaten at, Aubergine combined expertly crafted dishes, excellent service, and a delightful wine pairing into an intimate dining experience for for the best celebrations in your life. The theme of the menu when we visited was "surprise" and we found the menu to be entirely that. The thrice seared A5 miyazaki wagyu took the show for my wife and I, followed closely by the duck breast and confit. Aubergine is delightfully appointed, comfortable, quiet and intimate. If you have a chance to enjoy a meal here odds of disappointment are very low.
Imagine stepping into a hidden gem nestled in the heart of
Imagine stepping into a hidden gem nestled in the heart of Carmel by the Sea. The moment you enter, the ambiance greets you like an old friend, setting the stage for an unforgettable culinary journey. It's not just a restaurant; it's an experience, a voyage through the captivating worlds of land and sea. As you walk in, you're greeted by a visual feast - seashells and succulents artfully arranged on rocks, as if Mother Nature herself curated the decor. It's like walking into a cozy living room of a dear friend, where every detail is chosen with care and affection. The small bites was a love letter to the sea and the earth, a storybook filled with tales of abalone, caviar, and Wagyu. Each dish is a character in this gastronomic narrative, with the sea bass stealing the show, daring to keep its skin unskinned, giving you that extra crunch that surprises and delights. The squid waltzes in, draped in a buttery, creamy sauce that's practically a dance on your taste buds. And the bread? It's not just a side, it's the perfect partner in this flavorful tango. The main courses are the heroes of this culinary tale. The duck, lean and tender, strikes the perfect balance, while the rib eye, with its onion sidekick, forms a carnivorous duo that leaves you wanting more. Dessert arrives like the grand finale, and you're treated to a spectacle. Opt for green tea, served in a kettle that could easily win an award for aesthetics. Each dessert takes a bow, creating a sweet harmony that feels like the perfect ending to a wonderful story. This Carmel by the Sea gem is more than just a place to eat; it's a comforting embrace that envelops you. The ambiance is set by the soft lighting, which creates a cozy atmosphere. The staff are passionate food experts who are eager to share their knowledge with you. This restaurant is more than just a meal; it's an adventure that you'll never forget. Don't miss out on this unforgettable experience.
Amazing.
Had a memorable anniversary dinner there. Beautiful, insane food. Excellent service. We will be back!
Amazing food. Will blow your taste buds!
This was a spectacular dinner in the heart of beautiful Carmel-by-the-Sea. The restaurant has 10 tables, 5 indoor and 5 outdoor. We ate in the indoor dining room which was lovely. The staff was incredibly attentive and explained every course very well. In fact, with each course a member of the kitchen team comes out to describe it in detail and serve, which makes it extra special. The experience was about 2 hours, and we loved every dish, which was a surprise until they brought it out. In other words, no menu. I would highly recommend this dinner to anyone celebrating a special occasion, because it is such a lovely setting and delicious food. We did not have wine, but the wine list was extensive.
The best tasting course I've ever been to, all food was on
The best tasting course I've ever been to, all food was on point, left full and wine pairing & service was on point. We sat in the courtyard which added to the ambiance.
We dined at Aubergine for our wedding anniversary, and it
We dined at Aubergine for our wedding anniversary, and it was just as special as we had hoped. The car show was going on in Carmel that weekend, so there were Italian Super Cars parked out front, so thank goodness for their valet service! Each course was perfectly presented by the chef who made it, with a description of everything on the plate. I think I heard that there were 15 chefs in the kitchen! We even got to chat with Chef Justin. Each dish was timed so well, the whole meal had a beautiful rhythm. It was truly magical. We even got a little box of sweets to take the experience home. You certainly don't need a special occasion to dine at Aubergine, just know that the restaurant will make any occasion a special one. They really deserve a second Michelin star!
Just look most everyone who has reviewed Aubergine, I give
Just look most everyone who has reviewed Aubergine, I give it 5 shining stars! We came here for our wedding night dinner (we eloped) and it was the most magical experience. From the moment we pulled up, our car doors were opened, we were escorted up and met with the friendliest experience ever. The staff truly anticipated every need we had. The ambiance is amazing--a little courtyard adorned with romantic lighting and heaters for the cold. As for the food--I have no words. We went with the sommelier pairing and I thought it was super worth it! The tasting menu was incredible and we truly enjoyed every single thing. My favorite part of all was that the chefs would come out and explain each dish--this was something I hadn't experienced at other Michelin star restaurants before. I would 100% go back and would absolutely recommend!
A journey of flavors in a magnificent place
I had an incredible gastronomic experience in this magnificent restaurant in the heart of Carmel. The chef took us on a taste journey of very high quality. The wine list is also first class!
Positive surprise, true fine dining in a small setting
Excellent fine dining place ! Service, atmosphere, food, wine list - all worth the price. My biggest concern with dining in the US, even fine dining, are the big portion sizes. This was not the case here, great, tasty, small portions in line with degustation menu. Not stuffy, just a nice atmosphere, great, unobtrusive service. Would def, come again.
My husband and I enjoyed the tasting menu last Sunday.
Everything was incredible, and for those who are less adventurous, there wasn't a single "unusual" thing on the menu. No sweet meats, no squid ink, nothing that would cause you to hesitate before taking a bite.The presentation was wonderful. Every bite was a little piece of heaven, and the staff was wonderful. My husband thought it was a nice touch that the chef and the sous chefs came to the table to serve a few of the dishes.Even in the cold and outdoors, this was an incredible experience. I would definitely take friends and family here.
I guess I either won out in the husband department or am
I guess I either won out in the husband department or am just a really lucky girl because my husband spoiled me with an amazing dinner at Aubergine for my birthday weekend in Monterey/Carmel. Every course was beautifully served and the flavors were memorable. We did the wine pairing, and their somm is genius at complimenting some really unique dishes. Service is of course, outstanding. As mentioned in previous reviews, the price was expectedly high. Because of that, I'd say for most of us, this is definitely a special occasion restaurant, but an excellent one at that.
Came here for a Sunday night dinner date with my partner.
The tasting menu was delicious but we were mostly impressed with their top notch service and wine pairings! So good!
Spent a weekend in carmel and found this very cozy Inn with
Spent a weekend in carmel and found this very cozy Inn with a very great restaurant. Food was very scrumptious! Service was superb. Everything in the tasting menu tasted divine and wine pairings recommended by our wine connoisseur was just perfect! Don't miss out on visiting this place whenever you're in carmel by the sea.
Incredible food, service, and elevated without being
Incredible food, service, and elevated without being pretentious. They kept the tasting menu exhilarating for my pregnant wife without missing a beat.
Tried to make reservations for 5 people.
Was told the main finding room only accommodated parties of four or less otherwise I needed to make arrangements for the wine cellar which has a minimum $2400 spend. Pairing and food is $400/pp. So I asked if they were explicitly turning away a $2100 table and the guy said "ooooooh, yeaaaah... chef is pretty strict." Needless to say I'll take my money elsewhere unless this is corrected.
Service and food were excellent
The multicourse meal was absolutely delicious. This was our second visit, and it equaled the first. Wine pairings were spot-on.
Delicious tasting menu & wine pairing
We celebrated our anniversary here. The tasting menu and wine pairing were what you'd expect - delicious. I'm a vegetarian and they accommodated / adjusted the menu very well. Service was wonderful, and their inside dining area is very comfortable.
We celebrated our anniversary here several months ago.
The tasting menu and wine pairing were what you'd expect - delicious. I'm a vegetarian and they accommodated / adjusted the menu very well. Service was wonderful, and their inside dining area is very comfortable.
This is an amazing experience.
Aubergine is a one Michelin star restaurant located in L'Auberge Hotel in the heart of Carmel. We enjoyed the eight course menu with the wine pairing. Each serving was a work of art and delicious. I have food allergies and still had a fabulous experience being able to try each course presented. We were treated wonderfully by the wait service, sommeliers and the sous chiefs would come and share how they created the food. The menu is changed daily for the freshest and in season items available.Recommend sitting in the intimate courtyard under the twinkling lights for a romantic experience. The hotel is also beautiful with antiques and lots of history in true Carmel style
Great experience at Aubergine.
The staff was incredibly welcoming and personable. My husband made a reservation for my birthday, and each staff member greeted me when first coming to our table. Highly recommend the wine pairing if within your budget. The executive chef came out to serve/finish plating two of our courses, which we thought was really cool.
Don't book here for a special occasion unless you don't
Don't book here for a special occasion unless you don't mind the risk of Aubergine calling to say you have to give up your spot the night before your big day, as just happened to me.My wife and I got married in the middle of Covid. This year, we were excited to celebrate our first anniversary with everything open and back to normal again. We chose Aubergine because it is small and intimate, and had rave reviews. I booked the table months in advance, and agreed to pay $290 if I cancelled at the last minute.The night before our dinner, Aubergine called me to say something had come up and 4 (of 9) tables had to be bumped. They told me since I only lived a couple hours away, and other guests were traveling from further, that I should just come another time. I explained that it was my first anniversary with my wife and that the date itself was important. They suggested I was being selfish and denying more worthy dinners the opportunity to experience Aubergine on their vacations. He said he would call others, but if they weren't willing to give up their seats he would call me back to inform me I wouldn't be able to join them tomorrow evening.I spent the next two hours furiously googling and calling and thankfully found a last minute spot open at Birdsong (two Michelin stars and only $25pp more than Aubergine, perhaps the cancellation was a blessing in disguise). Rather than risk making the trip to Carmel and checking into our hotel only to get the dreaded call back from Aubergine that no other diners were willing to give up their table and our reservation was gone, I jumped on the spot at Birdsong. Aubergine wasn't able to explain why they had to bump us (when I asked, he said he didn't know, he guessed it might be staffing). If I had to guess, I'd say some VIPs wanted to go on a Saturday night and Aubergine thought it would be fine to just pressure some plebians to give up their long-standing reservations to accommodate them. Even an airline that bumps people offers some form of compensation, but Aubergine didn't even offer to use their relationships in the industry to find us another table for our anniversary, let alone offer a discount or apology. Just a quick thanks when I called back to tell them I'd found another place on my own. I think a huge part of the fine dining experience is the service and, on that measure, I'd say Aubergine missed the mark by a mile. (As a side note, if you find yourself in the area, instead of Aubergine, I'd highly recommend Birdsong, Lazy Bear, SingleThread, Saison, the French Laundry, and Manresa. We've had incredible meals and wonderful experiences at each, and all are well worth it.)
Connect with users posting reservations for Aubergine the restaurant at L'Auberge Carmel Carmel-by-the-Sea
AppointmentTrader is a community-driven platform where users can exchange their reservations or leverage their personal relationships with Aubergine the restaurant at L'Auberge Carmel Carmel-by-the-Sea. Buyers can make informed decisions using automated seller ratings, which reflect past transactions and reliability.
Each posting on AppointmentTrader shows you which user submitted it and along with that provides a trackrecord of that user which indicates how much experience
the user has and how many percent of their transactions resulted in them issuing a refund.
If there is no user posting that fits your schedule, you can bid on your preferred time.
Let's say Peter has a great morning and decides to take his three friends to Aubergine the restaurant at L'Auberge Carmel Carmel-by-the-Sea at 6 PM the same day.
He checks the restaurant's website and sees that no reservations are available. He then looks at the Aubergine the restaurant at L'Auberge Carmel Carmel-by-the-Sea page on AppointmentTrader, but finds that there are no user postings either.
That's where the community-driven bid process comes in.
Peter can place a bid on AppointmentTrader, which serves as a reward for any community member who chooses to work on securing the reservation. AT then notifies experienced users who may be able to help.
Step-by-Step Process
1.) Setting a Reward (Bid)
* AppointmentTrader uses historical data to recommend a reasonable reward amount for securing a reservation - let's say $100.
* Peter really wants to go, so he increases the bid (or reward) to $200.
* At this stage, the reservation does not exist yet.
2.) A Community User Picks Up the Bid
* FulfilledThread16, an experienced AT user, has a strong track record of successfully securing reservations and low refund requests, they receive a notification about Peter's bid.
* FulfilledThread16 picks up the bid, meaning they will now work on securing the reservation.
* Peter can now talk to FulfilledThread16 for any questions Peter may have as FulfilledThread16 user fills the bid.
3.) Finding the Reservation
* FulfilledThread16 now uses their connections at Aubergine the restaurant at L'Auberge Carmel Carmel-by-the-Sea to secure the table.
* If they successfully get the 6 PM table for four, Peter receives a confirmation that the reservation has been secured.
* If FulfilledThread16 fails to secure the reservation, the bid is returned to the pool so another user can try.
4.) Payment & Protection
* Once the reservation is secured, FulfilledThread16 receives the $200 reward which is credited to FulfilledThread16's AT balance, where users manage their own funds and can withdraw via available payout options such as bank transfer, PayPal, or Zelle.
* Peter can now enjoy the dinner with his friends at Aubergine the restaurant at L'Auberge Carmel Carmel-by-the-Sea!
* As with all transactions on AT, disputes and no-show fees are handled through the platform's community-driven resolution system. Users with a strong track record are incentivized to fulfill bids successfully, and community members can report issues to maintain trust in the marketplace.
Carmel-by-the-Sea's Best Restaurants that are most frequently booked by customers of Aubergine the restaurant at L'Auberge Carmel Carmel-by-the-Sea
Ranked #7 in Carmel-by-the-Sea's Best Restaurants.
