about $100, lot included. These days,
they’re worth millions.
Other renowned architects,
including Frank Lloyd Wright and
Frank Wynkoop also made their mark
on Carmel. Wright’s Clinton Walker
House is built on a ragged jetty on
Carmel Beach and resembles the
prow of a ship. This organic
structure, which the architect called
his “cabin on the rocks,” is wrapped
in indigenous Carmel stone, and its
terrace and living room jut out into
scenic Carmel Bay. The Butterfly
House, designed by Wynkoop, is
perched on the rocks almost at the
water’s edge, looking very much like
its winged namesake. Located on
Scenic Drive, these homes and others
in the area boast a postcard setting
comprised of a pristine white sand
beach, craggy cliffs and gnarled
Cyprus trees.
As a longtime art colony and haven
for artists of all persuasions, the
town is a magnet for art aficionados
who relish touring the dozens of
galleries in existence. The Carmel
Art Association is also worth
mentioning, as it is the second
oldest art cooperative in the
country. Founded in 1927, it
showcases the work of more than
100 professional local artists. And
then there’s the Carmel Sunset
Cultural Center, a state-of-the-art
performing arts center bringing a
wide range of world-class music,
theatre and dance productions. The
building, which began as a public
school in 1926, is notable for its
stunning Gothic architecture and
incredible acoustics.
When it comes to dining, Carmel-bythe-Sea is heaven for gourmands and
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for those who simply appreciate a
great meal in a memorable ambiance.
There are many high quality
establishments, featuring a range of
international, regional and local
cuisines, which benefit from their
proximity to the abundance of fresh
ingredients provided by the
Monterey Bay and Salinas Valley. To
get a good overview of what the
town offers, join one of Carmel Food
Tours’ guided culinary and wine
walking experiences. Owner Staci
Giovino, a self-confessed foodie,
started the company in 2012 with
the desire to help visitors and
Carmel residents alike enjoy the best
“off-the-beaten-path” food and
cultural experience possible. She
researched the most interesting and
delicious options available in the
community, while studying the
history that makes this locale so
creative and vibrant.
On Giovino’s Carmel-by-the-Sea
Gourmet Food Tour, you’ll sample
specialties from seven unique
eateries, gourmet food stores and
wine tasting rooms, while getting to
interact with chefs, restaurant
owners and wine specialists.
Highlights include Braised Kobe Beef
and Polenta Cake at legendary Anton
& Michel; Caprese Salad at the
rustically chic Affina Food and Wine;