Stopped by here for some wine and snacks in the early afternoon before the dinner rush. Such a beautiful location with a lovely view of the sunset and the waterfront, right in front of the pasture where the sheep graze. Very cool that it's owned by Clint Eastwood. Their wine selection is pretty broad and their house selections are OK. The baked potato skins were tasty but nothing unique. The crabcakes are excellent. Prices are very high overall, so just be prepared that you're paying for the view. Parking is plentiful. There's also a hotel adjacent if you're looking for a weekend away. Servers are OK - our immediate server was very friendly and kind, but the hostess and front of house folks were a bit snooty and gave a very pretentious vibe. read more

So glad we decided to check out Mission Ranch! Seems like such a pleasant place to dine, even when it's dark outside and you can't enjoy its beautiful views. The staff was very nice and helpful, and the menu had something for everyone. The prices are very reasonable, considering the location and history of the place. Plenty of seats inside and outside with partial and full menus options. Piano bar was such a nice touch. Overall, I definitely recommend checking it out if you are in the area! read more

See all

When we saw this place online, I knew I needed to come here for brunch on our weekend trip to Carmel. This place was SO cute. This amazing view cannot be beat and service was incredible. The waiters here are so sweet and attentive. My husband and I were so glad to find such a relaxing spot to enjoy our breakfast and watch all the sheep graze in the pasture. My avocado toast was perfect as well. We definitely will be back next time we're in town and now that we've visited the ranch, we're definitely looking to stay the night here next time! Such a serene, peaceful part of Carmel. read more

See all

Sit outside and enjoy the great scenery! We enjoyed great service and good food. Go alone, with friends, or make a friend there. Time and money well spent. read more

BLUF: Good food, great views, ok service, but sloppily done old fashioned. It was nice to return in 2024 and feel comfortable to dine-in. Hubby and I 1st came in Nov 2020. We didn't feel comfy dining in at that time so we ordered our food to-go. I recall there was a massive long line out the door here when we came to pick-up. They have "grazing" time from 3p-5p, just apps and small plates, drinks, so you cannot order entrees until dinner service begins at 5pm. no reservations, first come first served. We showed up Friday 5PM for 4 adults, indoor seating and we were seated right away next to the window. The hostess is the face of the restaurant because they're the first person you see. Being a high end restaurant, I hold them to a higher standard in customer service and that they'd put someone up front who is personable, friendly, and welcoming. Unfortunately she was none of those things and just the complete opposite. We all noticed it w/o mentioning it to one another, so that says a lot. Later when we spoke with the manager about it, we came to find out the hostess had put in her notice and would only be working there a couple more days (Sat & Sun). Still, we suggested she not be there b/c I imagine Sat & Sun are their busiest days. There was another lady up front, she was SO friendly and welcoming though. We all noticed her and even complimented her. I guess it was just our bad luck that we approached when the other girl was there. Outdoor seating was a 1.5 hr wait, and it was quite hot this day and still at that time sun was shining strong outdoors, no umbrellas on the tables outside, so we chose to do indoors. It was really warm inside too. I don't know if they could've done something about the temperature but it was hot, I was sweating, and then the see-through blind on the window didn't help too much. I asked the waiter if he could do something, and unfortunately couldn't do anything. Our sangrias were tasty and refreshing. We all enjoyed our dishes. Hubby's steak was much better this time and actually seasoned properly (I tasted it). Our first visit was awful and got our steaks to-go, and were so bland tasting, I swear someone forgot to season it. We had to ask our hotel if they could send us some salt & pepper. Same w/the double-baked potato. Last time, the filling was bland, and the skin was so tough it was inedible. This time, it had flavor and tasted cheesy, and you could actually eat the potato skin this time. Hubby's go-to drink is an old fashioned. You can tell if the restaurant's bar takes pride in their craft by the ice they choose to use. A true old fashioned is served with a single large ice cube or large ice sphere. A big no-no is serving it with a bunch of ice chips you'd use for a water cup. It dilutes the drink. Well, hubby's drink OVERFLOWED with ice chips (SEE PIC) and when we asked our server if they had any large single ice cubes, he said he's aware it's supposed to be made like that and we're not the first people to ask about it, which means others have complained. He said they've asked the bartenders before about it, but they "get upset" with the servers, and said that the bartenders don't want to take the time to make the proper ice for it because they have to get drinks out quick. Yes the bar was packed this night, and while I understand the rush to pump out drinks, the whole reasoning did not make sense. It's not like they're making the ice in the back in real time. All you need are the ice molds!!! make a whole bunch in advance, stick in the freezer, and you're done. And if you want to save some time, pop them out of the molds ahead of time, and stick them in a storage container in the freezer. grab as needed. It's disappointing when folks spend so much time and effort to perfect their craft, and then produce a sloppy drink. I hope they can incorporate this feedback. I expected much better from a restaurant like this. Our server was good, but perhaps a bit pushy and rushy at times with his tone. We even heard another customer at the table next to us call him out on it and said to him "DON'T RUSH ME...OK????", with his hand out like saying stop. We mentioned this rush-ness we felt to our server after the dinner, but he was not receptive to the feedback and got a bit defensive. DESSERT: We had a question about one of the desserts and asked one of the workers who was nearby but he said in a rude tone "I DON'T KNOW, I'm new". We were like, uh ok, and he left. I think a better response would've been, "I don't know, I'm new, but let me go ask and find out". We're all new and start somewhere. My apple galette was tasty. I think it could've been warmer in temperature, not sure if that's on purpose so the ice cream holds better. Finally the sun went down and we were able to roll up the blind and see the view of the meadow. After dinner we walked outside to get a closer look. the outdoor seating looked nicer, and romantic w/the all the lights. read more

See all

We are a group of eight couples who travel together to Carmel annually. Mission Ranch is always our dinner choice the first evening. Several of our group go before 5:00 pm to secure seating since reservations are not taken. We began the evening on the terrace which overlooks a pasture with sheep grazing and further away there are stunning ocean views. Heaters and fireplaces make the outside space comfortable and cozy. We ordered drinks and enjoyed them while waiting for the rest of our party to arrive. Soon, the hostess seated us inside for dinner at two tables of eight. We are familiar with the menu so wine and entree orders were soon placed. Stevie was our server and was delightful and knowledgeable. My husband and I always order the prime rib (see photo) as did several others in our party. One had filet mignon, a few others the prime rib and some chose seafood offerings. The food and service were outstanding, as always. They are also open for breakfast service which we have enjoyed in the past. We shall return! read more

Mission Ranch - Excellent prime rib, rare as we prefer. - Venues & Event Spaces Near Me - Carmel, California

The restaurant opens at 5pm for dinner, they don't take reservations, so we showed up at 5:30pm on a Saturday, and the wait for seating (either indoors or outside) was about one and a half hours (possibly 2 hours). Luckily, there's open bar seating, so we found seats at the bar immediately, and didn't have to wait at all... for seating at least. Actual service from the bartender wasn't the fastest but not terrible either, the woman helping us was friendly and seemed to be working hard to give all guests equal attention. The food and drinks we got were fantastic. We got the Roasted Half Jidori Chicken, and  Whiskey Marinated Beef Brochette, and every part of these dishes were amazing. The meats juicy and seasoned well, full of flavor without being too salty. The potatoes with unique recipes and cooked flawlessly with a nice consistency. The veggies on the side tasty as well. We were loving our meals and both cleaned our plates! And still had a couple slices of the light and airy, buttery garlic bread on top of that. For cocktails, the whiskey sour and Whale of a Time were strong and flavorful. I especially loved the Mission White Sangria, which was refreshing and delicious, and just perfect for the setting. Indoors, there's a piano bar with the musician playing a combination of jazz hits and show tunes, a little bit of Billy Joel and Christina Aguilera, and other random pieces as well while we were there. Outside, plenty of sheep grazing in the field, a distance away from the dining patio, but we walked over after dinner for a closer look. There were also a couple of deer in the meadow, a large open space, creating such a unique atmosphere. A nice option for a special occasion, but so much to love about this place even on a regular day :) read more

See all

I wish more people talked about how VILE the food is here. The food is on the same level as an Applebees or Dennys. I don't know how a roasted artichoke could be so bland and flavorless, and the prime rib was just.... as gross to eat as it was to look at. That being said, what Mission Ranch lacks in food they make up for in views and beauty. Come here for a drink at the bar and walk around the property. Don't waste your time waiting in line for 2 hours to eat a meal and don't waste your money on food. read more

Mission Ranch - Prime Rib - Venues & Event Spaces Near Me - Carmel, California

Wow this place gets packed!! They don't do reservations, first come first serve. There was a wedding going on and turned out they were staying at the inn nearby, so parking was a little difficult. It's very beautiful though. I wish we could've sat outside because the view of the ranch was nice, and you could see the sheep! The food was really good! We all loved the gratin, so delicious. The stuffed Berkshire pork tenderloin was very unique and flavorful. Unexpectedly spicy. My filet mignon was cooked to perfection as well, medium rare. It could have had just a tad more sauce, but it was still delicious. Service: the waitress was very lovely and patient. However it was so busy that it was kinda hard to flag someone down to get water refills. I was so thirsty! read more

See all

We love mission ranch We are locals This is the best view outdoor dining in the area Very good food at reasonable prices Great service Usually crowded in summer during peak season like everywhere in carmel!! For good reason, this place is next level dining experience!! Great bar, great food, great ambiance World class experience!! read more

Thought it was dog friendly, it was clear it wasn't (which is fine). The host yelled at us and said "stop wasting your time in line we don't take dogs" read more

Beautiful views. Loved the atmosphere. The food was delicious and the piano bar made it even more special.

service was great, i saw lots of sheep, chicken tenders were great. here's a pic of me eating :). read more

Mission Ranch - me eating - Venues & Event Spaces Near Me - Carmel, California

The views? Impeccable. The food? Meh. The appetizers were good but the rest of our entrees were nothing special. My friend got the halibut (catch of the day) which was average at best. The shrimp pasta was not very good to be honest. My husband got the chicken Alfredo pasta which he said was average. I'm glad we got a bunch of appetizers and wish that was all we ate. But a nice birthday dinner overall. read more

See all

Went here for brunch with my grandmother for her birthday, no wait for inside but the tables are very close together and the music makes it very hard to have a conversation. We got our drinks but ran out of coffee and didn't get a refill until our brunch was over. The food was mediocre at best and overpriced. read more

We had an amazing 32nd Anniversary dinner at Mission Ranch! The staff went above and beyond to make it special - especially the hostess who gave us a special table. We've never experienced that kind of special treatment before just because it was our anniversary, but we will certainly be back! We shared the oysters, burrata salad, and Prime Rib dinner. Everything was delicious! Thank you to the entire staff - you made it an evening to remember! read more

If you're not staying there. Forget it. This is the second time we've had dinner as a couple not staying at the ranch only because we couldn't get a reservation. Stood I. Live at 3:00 to make dinner reservations. Had to wait a least fifty minutes after our reservation to be seated. Got a horrible table and was totally ignored by wait staff. People who were seated before s After us were waited on and served before us. Won't ruin our vacation here again. read more

Great location and vibes. Enjoyed the sheep 10/10. We went on a busy Friday night where there were no parking spaces available. After patiently waiting 15 mins for a spot, we got yelled at by an absolute hag of an old man who said that I was in his parking spot. I told him I would move but he didn't answer me and went back into his hotel. Not a great start to the evening...the appetizers were much better than the mains. I'd recommend going here early for apps rather than dinner. The linguini tasted boxed, had 0 flavor. I thought my 5 year old niece makes better flavored pasta. Great bread and mussels though. read more

Lovely setting just outside the beautiful town of Carmel . Well rounded menu sure to please everyone in your party. We were a party of 5 and ordered steak, jidori chicken, swordfish x 2 ( nights special) and cobb salad. Food was good, priced fairly. Service was good although wait staff seemed a little short handed. Dessert was good - cheesecake and bread pudding. Biggest turnoff was the snobby hostess who did her best to be bossy, condescending and just plain rude. No smile, no welcome to our lovely restaurant-- what a horrible first impression. Dining out should be enjoyed - not a don't sit here, we may not be able to fit you in, (restaurant was half full the entire time). Honestly find someone who understands how critical a first impression is- and it isn't her!!! read more

We came to celebrate my little brother's engagement that occurred 2 hours earlier at the beautiful Point Lobos. The food was pretty good. I will admit that. The reason why I am leaving a 1 star review is because of the manager's ignorance and attitude to a respectful group of customers. It started with a fly/mosquito being in my girlfriend's cocktail. We kindly asked for the drink to be remade. My brother had a view of the bar and witnessed the bartender scoop out the insect with a straw and send the drink back out. Not even two minutes passed and we had a new drink. My brother waited until the server left and told us what happened. I don't like to cause scenes so I went up to the bar and describe what we saw and that we wanted an entirely new drink. The server brought the new drink and told us good job for standing up for ourselves because we she saw the bartender take the bug out. They ended up charging us for 2 and discounting 1. We felt it was appropriate for them to at least compensate us for the drink they lied and tried to deceive us for. Again, I approached the server away from the table to be sincere and not make a scene and just said "It would really be great and everyone will be happy if we got the drink compensated." She later arrived to the table and said they would not be able to cover the drink. We then asked to speak to the manager. The manager came out and said she saw the bartender remake the drink herself and she "put that on her parents graves" shes telling the truth, although my brother saw what really happened. She said there are bugs around since it is a ranch and there "are mice running around" because it's on a ranch. I don't see how this helped her case. She then rudely asked, "So what do you want?" We said we at least wanted that 1 drink compensated. She seemed surprised and said "Oh thats all you guys wanted?" Acting surprised when we told her that yes we asked the server and she said you said no and thats why we asked to speak to her, the Manager. As she walked away we realized we didn't tell her that the server even told us that she witnessed what happened to our drink. We didn't want to cause a scene so we let it go and still TIPPED. Overall, this experience was pretty horrible considering how nice this restaurant was supposed to be. read more

Hair in food definitely was disgusting. The service was good though, the hair in food confused the waiters. The Ambiance was absolutely beautiful. read more

Mission Ranch is on our list of restaurants we enjoy anytime we are in the Monterey / Carmel area. We attend the annual AT&T Pro Am each year and we come as a group every Saturday following the tournament day. Why - the ambiance, staff, energy and vibe of both locals and visitors that easily blend in together and good food. The GM and staff - Lotte makes you feel welcome the moment you walk in the door with her smile and warmth. The waiters/waitresses and bartenders are attentive. The bar has a vibrant seen often with people seated around the piano player. Everyone is welcome to join in on the singing. The fireplaces are warm, the bar and dining areas are dimly lit and it gives that rustic farm house feel. If you arrive prior to sunset and its warm out I strongly suggest sitting on the patio and overlooking the farmland and animals. It's breathtaking. As a group of ten or so - we are always attended to. After several bottles of wine, appetizers, dinner and finishing with dessert everyone is happy and full. If you are looking for a rustic warm feel, immersion with locals, wanting fun, good service and food this is your place! read more

See all

Beautiful pastoral views, good service and I personally love the French toast or breakfast burrito for breakfast and jumbo shrimp cocktail appetizer and relish dish is good for dinner (I'm a light pre-5pm eater!). If you are looking for upscale bathrooms and modern hotel rooms, this isn't for you. The rooms and bathrooms are very accurately described as "rustic"... think old fashioned, country style living. But it is a great location, easy parking and well, the pictures say it all. Glad we have this in Carmel and Clint saved the property from condo development. read more

Absolutely superb dining at the former US Navy officers club, now owned by Clint Eastwood. Mission Ranch has a truly beautiful setting, excellent service, amazing food, and a live piano bar experience. Incredible! read more

See all

My husband and I recently stayed at the wonderful Mission Ranch and had an amazing time! Every staff member we interacted with was friendly and helpful. The accommodations were quaint and comfortable. We enjoyed the bed & breakfast vibe very much. We also dined at the on-site restaurant and had one of the most delicious meals we've ever experienced. The vegetarian options were limited but what they did have was amazing. I ordered the tomato bisque which was perfectly spiced and contained what was obviously very fresh cream. It was literally the best tomato bisque I've had in my life! My husband had the salmon, which loved. For dessert, we had the creme brûlée, which was perfect. The drinks were tasty as well and the service was spectacular. We had an entirely memorable experience and we'll definitely be back! Thanks for the invite, Clint! read more

See all

Was very hyped for this dinner, but that's all it turned out to be. Three of us ate and all three meals were bad. The ribs were very overcooked, and over salted, but then drowned in bbq sauce to try and hide the disaster. It didn't work. My son who is very easy to please had pasta that was overcooked and the Alfredo sauce was watery. It would have been a disappointment at a chain restaurant, but for what they charge it was criminal. read more

I have been going here for 10 years and it used to be our favorite restaurant, but after waiting for 2 hours for our food that never came we left. They said they had problems with the Chef and untrained cooks. The menu has changed as well and and it seems like they are poorly managed at this point. I wonder if Clint is aware that half the restaurant patrons left because they could not get their dinner. read more

Always fun!! Great music and good food. May see a whale or two in the distance! We always visit

Sunday brunch excellent if you like prime rib. I had three. I didn't care much about the prime rib Molly because it didn't have it did not have any special flavors. Service was excellent and they kept coming back for coffee which is extra but it was good coffee good quality with the creamer on the side. Fresh creamer. Parking may be challenging, but there is a school outside and you can park in front of it. They played piano at the entrance, or you can sit outside or you can sit on the other side of the restaurant if you want to avoid the music and the sun. I will definitely come back for the prime rib and I don't care about the other stuff even though the salad was also good, and the sweets were decent flavor wise. Fruits were fresh also. They have sheep grazing outside and they look very charming. read more

We love the ambiance and the service here. Prime rib is decent 6/10. Skip the clam chowder, it's just a small cup of cream, almost nothing in it. Overall we enjoy coming here occasionally. read more

We had heard this place was beautiful and drove by to check it out. The grounds and scenery are gorgeous and you can see why this lovely spot has such a reputation. The restaurant was incredibly crowded and we were quoted a two hour wait time. We said we'd wait and after about 15 minutes we approached the host stand to say we'd changed our minds and we're told that we could be seated in 5 because they were able to squeeze us in. A pleasant surprise! It's not very spacious inside but the food, drinks and service were all very nice and we were just thankful to be accommodated. At one point a breeze from the open window we were seated next to knocked over the blinds and my water was spilled over the entire table and our cheese board. The service staff was quick to clean up and replace our damaged items on the table. If you're looking for a unique spot that can't be beat for ambiance, give this place a try. We enjoyed beautiful scenic views and saw a Mama deer and her baby out grazing as well...which made for very sweet dinner entertainment. Oh, also noteworthy that this spot is a family resort/hotel property - so it is kid friendly. read more

Mission Ranch - Cheese plate and buratta salad. - Venues & Event Spaces Near Me - Carmel, California

See all

Yummy dinner with the family celebrating my sister-in-laws birthday. They put up a cute sign on the table saying "Happy Birthday to Ewe". Dinner was delicious, festive atmosphere and cheerful wait staff. If you have a chance try the warm pecan pie topped with ice cream! read more

See all

Went alone and felt very comfortable dining alone in a beautiful window table overlooking the patio with the furnaces glowing adding to the beautiful ambience and gorgeous sunset. Pork chop was amazing! Then sat at the piano bar enjoying all the amazing talent. Will be back soon. read more

Save yourself some time and money and skip the Mission Ranch. The food is barely edible and last time we were there we got sick after we had dinner. We contacted the staff immediately and were told that was just too bad. The hostesses and managers who run this place are rude and ignorant. They treat everyone horrible. People go here because Clint Eastwood owns it. It's a high priced tourist trap with very subpar food. If you like horrible food, horrible service and like to be treated like dirt, then this is the place for you. The only thing it has going for it, is a nice place to sit outside with a beautiful view. Even the best and most expensive rooms need extensive updating, and they smell musty and moldy. I highly recommend you find another place to stay and eat. The fettuccine Alfredo was the equivalent of your grandmother's tuna and noodle casserole. Yuck! read more

Normally, this place is always 5 stars in food and service and has always been my go to for prime rib. I also always recommend to people looking for prime rib to go here. Last night we went early and got a bar menu table so we could hear the piano and watch the action. The waitress was very slow getting to us and others around us, but it was busy, so I was willing to overlook (and did by our healthy tip.) We both ordered the open face prime rib sandwich. We both ordered medium rare. My partners was perfection and tender as is usual, mine was not. Half of it looked cooked perfectly and the other half had a "huge glob" of fat in the middle and the rest was raw , it looked like someone had torn or chewed it off the roast, instead of slicing it. I'd never seen anything like it. I tried to cut around the piece that looked ok, but every bite was so tough to cut, muscley and chewy it blew my mind. Truly inedible for human consumption. (But good enough to take home for our dog.) The fries and onion rings (basically my meal this night) were great. The server was not the usually friendly and attentive we've had in the past and the whole experience left me wondering, if asking for a bar menu table, which we have never done before, was some sort of punishment. It sure felt that way. The whole experience also made me re-think if in the future this will be my "go to" place for prime rib and recommendations. Disappointed. read more

My partner and I visited mission ranch to celebrate my birthday. We arrived at 4:00 and the hostess was amazing. She answered all of our questions and seated us at the most beautiful view of the restaurant. Once we sat down the waitress that assisted us was nice but was more straight forward with just taking down our orders. The scenery and atmosphere of the restaurant was really peaceful and relaxing. Once it came close to dinner (5:00) it took our waitress until 5:47 to take our order. She didn't check in with us during most of the time we spent at the restaurant. The actual food was good but nothing too special. I would mainly suggest visiting for their grazing hours to enjoy the beautiful view and relaxing experience. But the dinner itself didn't stand out too much. read more

Food- While our meal received a moderate rating, it was the awe-inspiring views that truly elevated our dining experience Service- Our waiter was friendly and attentive creating a positive atmosphere of our visit Ambiance- Our outdoor seating views were peaceful, relaxing, serene We came here for lunch after a visit to refuge spa it was the perfect addition to our trip! read more

Mission Ranch - Huevos rancheros & 2 eggs (any style) - Venues & Event Spaces Near Me - Carmel, California

Recently completed a stay at the famed Mission Ranch owned business Mr. Clint Eastwood. Eastwood purchased the property in the early 2000s to save the area from development. The grounds are nicely kept and the hotel buildings are spread over several acres. In the middle, there is a large open field where about two dozen sheep live and tend to. That field stretches into the marshland and the beach which lends the property amazing vistas from almost every room and especially from the Mission Ranch's restaurant which has lots of open air dining on its spacious deck. Mission ranch is reasonably priced for the area and Eastwood doesn't raise his prices even during high season and even during Monterey car week there is a lottery to get a room. it's also comfortable but amenities are few. There's no newspaper delivery, pool, or spa. There is an attached tennis club and fitness room. The on-site restaurant serves delicious and reasonably priced fare for breakfast and dinner (lunch and brunch is served during the weekends). We had a couple breakfasts and dinners and were not disappointed. Service was attentive and excellent and hotel guests get priority seating - there are no reservations and the line is crazy. Kids menu could use a revamp - burgers, chicken fingers and fettuccini Alfredo are the offerings. Rooms are rustic with a capital R and could use an update. We stayed in the bunkhouse built originally in 1852 which has two rooms, a living room with pullout and a full bathroom but was on the ragged edge of what one might call shabby chic. Leave the exterior alone and guy the interior - the mission inn would be taken to another level while still preserving what's there. Parking is plentiful and free. Recommended for those wanting a hotel that offers peace and quiet and don't mind a lack of frills. read more

See all

Food was amazing staff was very good and the view was spectacular. It's a noisy place people enjoying themselves with conversation.

The view truly makes this place! We saw sheep, deer, birds and even a seagull who kept trying to steal our food lol. Food was pretty decent -- more like diner food in its taste and presentation but the prices weren't too bad. Service was okay. Would come back again just for the experience again. read more