Carmel-by-the-Sea Restaurants - Casanova

Casanova is a Quintessential Carmel Restaurant Serving French and Italian

When Walter Georis opened his signature restaurant in 1978, he chose to name it after the street he lived on at the time: Casanova. "The design is a tribute to French and Italian homes," Walter says, "and also to the woman who used to live in the building when it was a home, Charlie Chaplin's cook Lady Bird."

Walter is also owner of an eponymously named winery, and so naturally Casanova places great emphasis on wine as part of a meal. "We are tied in fact and spirit with the wineries and wine region of Carmel Valley, he says. "Additionally, we have more than 2,200 bottles in our hand-dug cellar. I believe ours is a world-class wine list." But at Casanova, wine is only part of the story. Guests frequently rave about the Gnocchi Casanova, a heavenly blend of spinach gnocchi and parmesan au gratin and Fettuccine with Lobster, Clams, Mussels, Prawns, Lemon Cream and Fines Herbes.

One of the longest-running restaurants in Carmel, Casanova boasts a well-earned reputation as an intimate and romantic dining destination. And that's due in large part to Walter and the restaurant's staff. "Many, including Executive Chef Matt Zimny and Master Sommelier Matt Olson have been with us for a long time," Walter says. "In fact, many staff members are second generation."

"We have visitors from all over the world from all walks of life, plus a large local following," Walter says. Many are repeat customers who make Casanova a featured highlight of their Carmel visit.

DINNER: Monday - Saturday 4:30pm - 9pm