This restaurant, located in Carmel-By-The-Sea, California, is a little slice of Switzerland tucked into one of the most charming coastal towns on the West Coast. Lugano Swiss Bistro brings an authentic Alpine dining experience to the Monterey Peninsula, and it has built quite a devoted following among locals and visitors alike who are craving something genuinely different from the typical California dining scene.

If you’ve ever found yourself hunting for real, traditional fondue and coming up empty, this dog friendly restaurant is the answer to your prayers. Fondue is the star of the show here, and people who visit this dog friendly restaurant are quick to point out that the selection goes well beyond the watered-down versions you might find elsewhere. This is the real deal, the gooey, melty, warm-your-soul stuff that fondue fans dream about. But even if cheese isn’t your thing, this dog friendly restaurant has you covered with a solid menu of Swiss classics. The Chicken Schnitzel gets consistently rave reactions from visitors, and the Onion Soup Gratinée is generous, deeply flavorful, and the kind of dish that makes you loosen your belt a little and have zero regrets about it. Save room for the Crème Brûlée — people who visit this dog friendly restaurant don’t stop talking about it.

Beyond the food, the atmosphere at this dog friendly restaurant is genuinely cozy and welcoming. A fireplace crackles inside, making it the perfect spot on a cool Carmel evening. Monthly live Swiss band performances add a fun and festive cultural touch that sets this place apart from pretty much anywhere else in the region. The wine list is thoughtfully curated and well-priced, and the service is warm and attentive without being over the top.

Now for the part dog lovers really want to hear — this dog friendly restaurant doesn’t just tolerate your pup, they actually celebrate them. Dogs are welcome both inside and outside, and visitors have even reported receiving a dedicated doggy menu for their four-legged dining companions. Outdoor seating, free parking, wheelchair accessibility, and reservations accepted make this an easy and enjoyable outing for just about everyone.