San Carlos Street between Ocean and 7th Ave Carmel, CA 93921
Good for: Singles, couples
Price Range: Expensive side
Features: Bite-sized portions, easy to share
A colorfully-lit restaurant is tucked deeply in the heart of downtown Carmel-by-the-Sea. One side is more casual, open for those that want to visit over some drinks, watch an old movie projected on the wall, and listen to the live piano player. The other side provides a more tranquil place for an intimate dinner with the illuminated walls continuously changing colors. The overall feel is relaxed but the place has so much character.
It was our first time to a tapas restaurant so we weren’t really sure what to expect. Basically, instead of one huge meal, you order several small plates of various items. We had fantastic service as the waitress was more than happy to point out any and all dishes that were either already free of gluten or could be made without it. There were several items to still choose from.
Mundaka – Tapas Restaurant in Carmel
Mundaka offers more of an eclectic, upscale selection ranging from beef tartar (Frans ordered this) to a fancy, fully-loaded frittata (potato and egg dish). All the dishes we had were tasty and very unique. The menu was definitely geared to adults that want to savor each bite.
Unfortunately, it didn’t quite hit the spot for us. We came here for dinner and, though we ate enough, it didn’t feel like our hunger was satisfied sufficiently. Also, the prices were steep. We ordered the house specialty which was the Bellota or Iberica ham. For $22.50, we were surprised to see the plate only contained a few ham shavings. They were okay but, as casual diners, it was difficult for us to really ‘get’ why it was so special.
Family-Friendly?
Also, this is not a place I’d recommend as kid-friendly. The ambiance could be a bit tired and subdued for young ones and the food a bit too unique. Instead, Mundaka is more of a laid back hideaway for posh eats and casual conversation – perfect for childless couples and hip singles.
9 comments
Perfect for a date night! It has been far too long since I’ve enjoyed tapas.
I went here a few months ago. The service was excellent but we didn’t care for the food.
Sounds like a perfect place to go for a date night. Food looks tasty, and sounds like you guys had a great time!!
I like the idea of this restaurant so you can try several different things in smaller portions. Looks delicious!
I love tapas! We seem to always travel with the kids, so this one will have to wait a few years. 🙂
Love Tapas! Looks like such a nice place.
Looks like an amazing place I would love to go!
It looks like Mundaka has some tasty dishes. And it looks like a nice place for a date night.
It looks so pretty! I don’t know if we’d go there, I’m glad you enjoyed yourselves!
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