Wednesday, March 27, 2013

Carmel, CA - Part II

CARMEL, CA PART II
12 table restaurant, Aubergine
In my last blog, I forgot to mention L'Auberge Carmel.  What a lovely European style boutique hotel right in the heart of Carmel.  The hotel is 4 blocks from the Pacific Ocean.  The hotel is housed in 3 buildings set around a pretty courtyard.  The buildings were built in 1929 and are historic treasures.  There are 20 rooms each uniquely styled.  The bedding and bathroom amenities are top notch.  Many of the rooms have views of the Pacific Ocean.  Valet parking and breakfast are included in the rate.  This is a very romantic location for those looking for a city hotel rather than a resort in the countryside. 
 
young chef, Justin Cogley

I had heard about the hotel's fabulous 12 table restaurant, Aubergine and it's young chef, Justin Cogley from my daughter's wife who is a real foodie.  Justin's philosophy is built on spontaneity with an emphasis on local products.  I am so happy that we did this because it was one of the most memorable meals that I've had in years.  We tried the chef's tasting menu which was full of surprises.  When we were first seated, we were given the regular menu which looked wonderful and a separate sheet of paper listing 12 items.  We were told that each item would be incorporated into our meal.  The four of us decided to be brave and try the mystery tasting menu.  We decided to include the wine pairing.  We traveled through one

Aubergine Tasting Menu


course after another and enjoyed each item and the wines specifically chosen to accompany the food.  I especially appreciated the chef's respect for dietary requests.  What a wonderful experience.  This is a pricey thing to do...but really worth it if you are a foodie!!


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Please call for details.


The World is Our Playground!

Mari


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