Cancel

Open app

Search

The Bench

4.2 (710 reviews)
PriceyNew American, Bars
Open 11:00 am - 9:00 pm
Updated over 3 months ago

The Bench Photos

THE BENCH ATMOSPHERE

What's the vibe?
Moderate noise
Casual
Classy
Good for groups

You might also consider

Recommended Reviews - The Bench

Your trust is our priority, so businesses can't pay to alter or remove their reviews. Learn more about reviews.
Yelp app icon
Browse more easily on the app
Review Feed Illustration

Reviews With Photos

Kevin D.

The Bench restaurant is located inside of the Lodge at Pebble Beach. There is three parts of the restaurant you can eat in, near the bar, canopy room, or outside. We were in the canopy room, a very well lit open space with natural light and a cool breeze. The service was excellent, no issues and we didn't expect to run into any to be honest. The food was also very good with the mussels and shrimp shining. The Korean brisket was also excellent, and just the right amount of salt in the daily soup. This place is a winner all the way around.

Steak chopped salad, spicy pepperoni flatbread, espresso martini
Jessica D.

What a venue!! If you haven't done the 17 Mile Drive yet, make sure to stop by here and plan for a couple hours to walk the grounds, browse the shops, take in the golf course overlooking the water, and end it with a meal at The Bench. Pro tip: spend $35+ at any Pebble Beach restaurant and they'll deduct the 17 Mile Drive entrance fee from your bill. We came to celebrate my birthday and reserved an outdoor fire pit table, and the views were absolutely breathtaking. Just be warned -- we were told we had a private table reserved outside and ended up at a communal fire pit instead, which was a bit of a letdown. Our waitress was sweet and apologetic about it, which helped. The other thing nobody warns you about -- if it's a sunny day, that outdoor seating is in direct sun with zero umbrellas. We were all getting burned at 78 degrees by the end of the meal! I actually had to escape inside to the bar to enjoy my complimentary birthday dessert, which was a lovely gesture from the staff. With the unexpected warm weather, I wish we came for a dinner instead. Despite the hiccups, the overall experience is amaaazing and one we'll absolutely return for. The best: - Bread Balloon: A must-order. A GIANT Middle Eastern-style inflated bread heavily covered with za'atar (one of my favorite spices) served with hummus and tahini was incredible. Only note for the kitchen... ease up on the olive oil as it made the bottom soggy. - Carrot Cake -- One of the best desserts I've had in a while. Four generous bites of nut-heavy carrot cake with a big scoop of rich, perfectly sweet cream cheese frosting, topped with candied walnuts and served with salted caramel ice cream. Absolutely crazy good. Do not skip this. The good: - Brussels Sprouts: We love crispy brussels and these weren't that -- more boiled and sautéed. The sauce and pork belly were delicious but the texture was a slight miss for me. - Pepperoni Flatbread -- My fiancée loved it, I thought it was just okay. The bottom was quite soggy from the excess oil. But I was impressed with how charred the bottom was. - Chopped Salad with Steak: A light, delicate, oil-based dressing, and the steak was perfectly medium rare and literally melted in your mouth. Maybe one of the best bites of steak I've had.... Now I need to come back just to try more of their steak dishes. I do wish the dressing was more flavorful because I really just tasted oil. Skip: - Espresso Martini -- Didn't love this one. Way too boozy -- the alcohol bite was overwhelming and made it really hard to drink. Skip.

Bar/ Communal table seating area
Annie K.

We were sat at the communal table in the back like a peasant bc we didnt have a reservation but i think we could have easily waited for a table while sitting in the back. We just didn't know. Even while sitting in the back with barely any view, it felt very calm, luxurious, and enjoyable for some reason. Maybe just the environment being so close to the ocean on a golf course. The food was pretty good. The chickpea soup, shishito peppers i saw also cooked in the big wood fire oven they have (had alot of coarse salt on top), the shrimp was probably the most tasty. I liked my mocktail. The bolognese was solid. It was tastier reheated the next day for some reason. I liked the brownie ice cream dessert. Next time we will def wait for a table outside or inside as the views are spectacular and the ambiance was calming/rejuvenating.

Steak and mash potatoes
Ariele M.

Really nice little hidden spot . It was great food and service . This is from April 2026 ! Enjoyed the steak , cooked to perfection.

Tareq B.

One of the most beautiful views in the world sitting on the 18th hole of the Palm Beach golf course. The foods are Mediterranean inspired. The falafel Panzanella is amazing. Service is excellent. Although the hostesses can be a bit rough. Absolutely asked for the outdoor seating when the weather is nice. Some of the best conversations happen around the communal seating area where you can strike a conversation and make new friends.. the fire pits provide a great ambience and some warmth plus it is always romantic

Mandana B.

The Bench at Pebble Beach is an unforgettable spot for both the scenery and the food. From the moment you arrive, the views of the golf course and coastline take your breath away--it's the perfect backdrop for a relaxing meal. The food is equally impressive. Every dish we tried was fresh, flavorful, and beautifully presented, from creative starters to satisfying entrées. The menu strikes a nice balance between approachable comfort food and refined flavors that feel special. Drinks are thoughtfully prepared, and the service is attentive, friendly, and professional. Whether you're stopping by after a round of golf, enjoying a sunset meal, or celebrating a special occasion, The Bench delivers a top-notch experience. Excellent food, impeccable service, and views that can't be beat--definitely a must-visit in Pebble Beach.

Justin M.

Loved it here!! Food is standard American food, but the views are gorgeous. Having a reservation here also allows you to waive the 17 mile drive entrance fee. It's on hole 18 so you can walk straight to the course right after your meal! FOOD: Korean Brisket Sandwich (7/10) - Solid all-together, but the bread gets really really crusty and hard really quickly. Huge portions of fries too Grilled Cauliflower (9/10) - Our favorite dish here! Definitely get this as an appetizer Bench Burger (5/10) - This one honestly was not that good. Fries are the best part of the meal.

Josephine T.

I was surprised to have such a short wait to see a beautiful view although the restaurant was busy. Server was amazing as well as the breathtaking view on a beautiful sunny day in December. Food and drinks were amazing.

Spicy fire roasted shrimp with yummy bread and gluten free bread
Mandy L.

We loved this spot and I would absolutely go back if in the area. We were a bit early for our reservation so we sat at the bar until they called us for a table. They came to us which was nice so we didn't have to worry about checking back in. The bar waitress coordinated with the front of the house. Both of our cocktails were delicious but mine was more my speed and went down way too quickly! What originally drew us there was the gluten free flatbread so that definitely happened, but funnily enough, by the time it came to the table we were full so we took it to go and it was still delicious through our leftover indulging. We ordered the falafel panzella salad which was extraordinary! It was a flavor bomb, gluten free, and such an interesting twist on something I normally could not order due to the bread traditionally used. It was my favorite bite of the day. I loved the lemon vinaigrette that brought the dish together. It was a fresh and beautiful dish. My guy ordered the Korean brisket sandwich, it was tasty, but obviously not gluten free, which is fine since he doesn't have to worry about that. The total bite was delicious with the carrot slaw offering some punchy flavor. The gluten free spicy pepperoni flatbread (added mushrooms) ate more like a pizza than a flatbread but I'm not complaining. The crust had chew, it was not a cracker, and overall delicious. It held up well for the next day or so while we nibbled at it through our travels. We also got the Calabrian chili spicy shrimp which was super delicious and that sauce was delicious! I loved that they offered the gluten free bread so I could sop up some of that goodness too! They are doing some construction so access to the restaurant is a bit of work since the center courtyard is closed off. They do have signage, but asking someone for guidance never hurts either. Once around the construction though, the view is fabulous and the food is worth the extra steps.

Sirloin
Jen D.

Came here to celebrate a special family event- my niece's long time boyfriend's title change :) (He proposed!). I truly appreciate the staff- the hostesses for holding my gift for the surprise event, and our server and his Manager for making this celebration even more special. Our server was very patient as we celebrated which took us longer than probably usual to place our order. The table next to us even bought the newly engaged a bottle of champagne which was a really nice surprise! My family who are out of towners were impressed at how nice everyone was! Food is ALWAYS delicious at The Bench. We came at 4pm so it was in between lunch and dinner and menu included appetizers and drinks. We ordered a variety to share plus more champagne. We stayed through dinner and enjoyed some steak. Everything was excellent!

Robert S.

Food was excellent and the day beautiful! Staff was friendly. Didn't need reservations.

Veal Bolognese
megan o.

Please eat here if you are in pebble beach. For one...the bread balloon. I leave it at that. Just go and experience it. For two all the dishes are insane and the views are equally incredible. For three the service is always phenomenal and honestly for what your getting the price is better than a lot of other culinary experiences in the area. To start we couldn't get a reservation over the phone so we showed up for the first come first serve outdoor dining. Came during the pre dinner hours and enjoyed appetizers and drinks outside by the fire. We ended up getting a 5:30 dinner reservation in person. For appetizers do the bread balloon and Brussels sprouts. We have lived in pacific grove for 20 years and have come to many restaurants in surrounding areas. Never have I had Brussels sprouts so good. For my entree I OF COURSE got the veal Bolognese. It's been a favorite of mine since 2018 and I think I would cry if they ever got rid of it. It's impeccable. My favorite dish of all times I might even say. And no one else does it. For dessert you can't go wrong but if you want to go really right get the carrot cake.

The Bench Burger and Salt and Pepper Fries
Karen L.

We went to Pebble Beach today and decided to have lunch at The Bench, one of the restaurants at the golf course overlooking the 18th hole and the ocean at the Lodge at Pebble Beach links. There is a great selection of beer and wine and a beautiful open-air dining room and outdoor patio. Our pup was welcomed into the dining room. A special note: The payment you make on the 17 Mile Drive will be deducted from your total bill! Parking is plentiful and the food is good! The menu is a bit small but we decided to have the delicious Bench Burger. This burger was a huge half pounder with smoked cheddar, house sauce, and salt and pepper fries. We loved the burgers and would definitely return.

Nicoise Salad

See all

27 days ago

Helpful 0
Thanks 0
Love this 1
Oh no 0
Photo of Joyce Z.
363
1404
22569

6 days ago

Helpful 3
Thanks 0
Love this 4
Oh no 0
Photo of Emilyn A.
16
65
936

1 month ago

Helpful 1
Thanks 0
Love this 0
Oh no 0

1 month ago

Helpful 26
Thanks 5
Love this 21
Oh no 0

1 month ago

Helpful 1
Thanks 0
Love this 0
Oh no 0

3 months ago

Helpful 1
Thanks 0
Love this 2
Oh no 1

1 month ago

Helpful 0
Thanks 0
Love this 0
Oh no 0

5 months ago

Helpful 0
Thanks 0
Love this 1
Oh no 0

6 months ago

Helpful 0
Thanks 0
Love this 0
Oh no 0

7 months ago

Helpful 0
Thanks 0
Love this 0
Oh no 1

1 month ago

Helpful 1
Thanks 0
Love this 0
Oh no 0

29 days ago

Helpful 0
Thanks 0
Love this 0
Oh no 0

10 months ago

Helpful 1
Thanks 0
Love this 2
Oh no 1

10 months ago

Helpful 0
Thanks 0
Love this 0
Oh no 1

3 days ago

Drinks were great, view was great, service was great, Jidori chicken was a hockey puck.

Helpful 0
Thanks 0
Love this 0
Oh no 0

2 months ago

Helpful 1
Thanks 0
Love this 0
Oh no 4

2 months ago

Helpful 0
Thanks 0
Love this 0
Oh no 0

4 months ago

Helpful 2
Thanks 2
Love this 1
Oh no 0

6 months ago

Helpful 0
Thanks 1
Love this 0
Oh no 0

6 months ago

Helpful 0
Thanks 0
Love this 0
Oh no 0

27 days ago

Helpful 0
Thanks 0
Love this 0
Oh no 0

3 months ago

Helpful 1
Thanks 1
Love this 0
Oh no 0

8 months ago

Helpful 0
Thanks 0
Love this 0
Oh no 0

1 month ago

Helpful 0
Thanks 0
Love this 0
Oh no 0

1 year ago

Helpful 0
Thanks 0
Love this 0
Oh no 0

1 month ago

Helpful 0
Thanks 0
Love this 0
Oh no 0
Photo of Lor W.
353
591
1840

2 years ago

Helpful 11
Thanks 1
Love this 10
Oh no 0

1 year ago

Helpful 4
Thanks 2
Love this 2
Oh no 0
Photo of Roy S.
3
40
555

9 months ago

Helpful 0
Thanks 0
Love this 0
Oh no 1

1 year ago

Helpful 0
Thanks 0
Love this 2
Oh no 0

5 months ago

Helpful 0
Thanks 0
Love this 0
Oh no 0

4 months ago

Helpful 0
Thanks 0
Love this 0
Oh no 0

1 year ago

Helpful 1
Thanks 0
Love this 1
Oh no 0
Photo of C T.
0
276
18

26 days ago

Helpful 0
Thanks 0
Love this 0
Oh no 0

2 years ago

Helpful 0
Thanks 1
Love this 0
Oh no 1

2 years ago

Helpful 2
Thanks 1
Love this 3
Oh no 1

2 years ago

Helpful 0
Thanks 0
Love this 0
Oh no 2

8 months ago

Helpful 0
Thanks 0
Love this 0
Oh no 0
Photo of Johny L.
6
148
246

7 months ago

Helpful 0
Thanks 0
Love this 0
Oh no 0

2 years ago

Helpful 0
Thanks 0
Love this 0
Oh no 1

Page 1 of 18

The Bench Reviews in Other Languages

Ask the Community - The Bench

Is it acceptable to bring kids?

Yes. I've always seen many children there.

Do I need to make reservation or do they allow walk in?

They allow walk ins but this place can get busy so it's better to make a reservation ahead of time or call in on your way to make sure there's available tables.

Are dogs allowed?

Yes, dogs are allowed in all outdoor areas in Pebble Beach. The Bench has wonderful outdoor seating.

How's the wait / openness for walkins? Since there's a gate fee, didn't want to try if they'll turn walkins away. Thanks!

Whenever we have done a walk-in at The Bench, they usually seat us right away. You can also call Reservations to put your name down just in case.

Are they dog friendly?

Yes, the outside patio is dog friendly.

Do they take reservations for lunch?

Yes they take reservations for lunch but outdoor tables are not reservable

Do I need reservations for lunch on a Sunday?

Yes

What about wearing regular blue jeans for dinner?

It is super casual so that should be fine! Our dog even came and she wasn't wearing any pants :)

Can you wear white jeans to dinner?

Yes. It's very casual. Rattan furniture. Not Club 19 anymore.... too bad. But nice atmosphere for a casual meal. Not fancy.

View All 11 Questions

You might also consider

Sade's Cocktails - The atmosphere is so bad and the servers are super rude! Just check the picture on the left, they like it if you are offended!

Sade's Cocktails

(203 reviews)

$

Best place to spend your time in Carmel (between golfing & gallery hopping)…read more If you want to feel local-ish, go here. I drove hundreds of miles for this place. (You should too.) Parker (the owner) is the real deal--passionate, witty, sometimes sarcastic, and genuinely fun. The cozy bar is surrounded by ever-changing photos, art, and laugh-out-loud signage. Stories live here: wall to wall, corner to corner, and everywhere in between. Locals and travelers exchange stories, play dice or cards. The drinks are beautifully basic--three ingredients, one of them ice. No fancy nonsense--just premium pours, neat or on the rocks. *And now the gut punch: they're being forced to close the same month they're celebrating their 100-year anniversary. The new building owners don't seem to care about the character and legacy of Carmel, the devotion of a fourth-generation owner, or what it means to lose a place that's thrived for a century. It's heartbreaking--for locals and travelers alike. Go while you still can. Last call, and cheers to everyone who's loved this place--"where everybody knows your name." XX

If you're looking for a good chill vibe, come here! We…read moreended up coming when the power came back on due to the tree falling into power lines barely came Back on but we were greeted by Parker who was so kind and had such hospitality. They had power out for a few days but were still so Chipper They serve beer wine and cocktails Everyone was so warm and friendly Parker had such a romantic vibe going on with all The candles on his bar So sad to hear he will be relocated across the street but so glad we got to experience this bar here while it's still in this location My mom and I loved the bathroom due to how good it smelled funny note but we love meyers soap and Parker had it ! Parker is such a character and such a vibe He has a few cats and a dog which were unfortunately not at the bar but def shows his true character as a pet dad. Can't wait to be back and visit the new location. What a Christmas 2025 this was. This is also a pet friendly bar! (: Thanks for such a great vibe our first Xmas Parker You're such a great host!

The Bench - newamerican - Updated May 2026

Loading...
Loading...
Loading...