Overview
COME PLAY WITH YOUR FOOD
Good food isn't hard to come by in California, but there’s nowhere else you’ll find such fine dining in Carmel. No other resort combines the area's freshest and best ingredients, the acclaimed talents of Executive Chef Tim Wood, and the playful spirit that describes Carmel Valley Ranch. Even Brussels sprouts taste good here.
Carmel Valley Ranch is nestled in the heart of California’s most fertile growing region. The area’s rich history of wine growing and sustainable, organic farming is reflected in Chef Wood’s fresh, natural and seasonal menus. Fresh seafood comes directly from the waters of the Monterey Coast and is delivered daily by Fisherman Jerry. Many of the fruits and vegetables featured in Chef’s dishes are grown at the Ranch’s on-site organic garden, literally picked within walking distance from the kitchen. Chef enjoys a very close relationship with our gardener, Mark Marino. The two have a passion for the land, and it shows in the heirloom and artisanal approach to our produce and ultimately our menus. What’s more, The Ranch has its own salt house that produces homemade small batch sea salts used in many of the Chef’s creations. When you combine Chef’s passion with our artisans and their “canvas”—our gardens, vineyards, lavender fields, the amber gold of our 125,000 Italian honey bees—the menus take on a very personal taste and embody what is unique and special about right here: Carmel Valley.
“The best thing about working in the Central Coast area is the ability to be so closely connected to local products and the people behind them,” says Wood when speaking about his overall philosophy. “When you know where your food is from and understand the care that the purveyors grant it, it is easy to extend your hand in friendship and consider them part of your family.”
LOCAL, ORGANIC, YUMMY
We’re lucky to be at such a great crossroads—fresh seafood from the Monterey Coast, a thriving community of food artisans, and produce that’s literally picked within walking distance of our kitchen. Chef Wood’s focus is squarely on local, sustainable ingredients and true farm-to-table cooking. Those familiar with Chef Wood won’t be surprised by his emphasis on family-style service, his sophistication, his sense of adventure, and most importantly, his wit. In other words, you’ll find that eating at Carmel Valley Ranch is just as fun as everything else. If you want, you can even order dessert first.
Dining Outlets | Hours of operation
Valley Kitchen
Monday-Friday
- Dinner – 5:00p-10:00p
- Bar – 3:00p-11:00p
- Breakfast – 7:00a-11:00a
- Lunch – 11:00a-3:00p
Saturday & Sunday
- Dinner – 5:00p-10:00p
- Bar – 3:00p-11:00p
- Breakfast – 7:00a-11:00a
- Brunch – 11:00a-3:00p
Lodge Pool
- Food Service – 11:00a-5:00p
The Clubhouse Grill
- Breakfast – 8:00a-11:00a
- Lunch – 11:00a-3:00p
- Snacks – 11:00-6:00p
- Bar – 7:00a-5:00p
River Ranch Cafe
- Cafe – 7:00a-8:00p
- Grill – 11:00a-8:00p
OPTIONS ABOUND.
Valley Kitchen
Executive Chef Tim Wood's culinary exploits—many involving honey, salt, eggs, fruits and vegetables from The Ranch's Organic Garden—are on full display for breakfast, lunch and dinner in Valley Kitchen. Indoor, outdoor and bar and lounge seating are all available.
RIVER RANCH CAFE
The casual and playful River Ranch Café resides in The Ranch’s most historic building (132 years old). Join us poolside at the high-energy, family-oriented River Ranch for a mix of your favorite grill items, sandwiches, salads, sweets, coffee, smoothies, beer and wine. Order at the counter or browse our bountiful Grab ‘n Go selection; indoor and outdoor seating are both available.
THE CLUBHOUSE GRILL
In the spring of 2013, our golf clubhouse went through a $1 million redesign. Not only did we enhance the great room and outdoor patio spaces, but we also completely reimagined our Clubhouse Grill and menu. Conveniently located near the 9th and 18th holes, The Clubhouse Grill offers quick and delicious breakfast, light fare dining all day with sandwiches, salads, tacos, beer on tap and a full bar. The Clubhouse is ideal for leisurely afternoon dining on the expansive patios overlooking the hills of Carmel Valley or a quick bite before or after your round.
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