This restaurant, located in Carmel-By-The-Sea, California, is the kind of place that makes you feel like you’ve stumbled into a little corner of Italy right along the California coast. Il Fornaio Carmel is part of a well-loved upmarket Italian chain, but don’t let the word “chain” fool you — this dog friendly restaurant brings serious authenticity to the table with freshly made pasta and bread baked daily in an in-house bakery. That alone is worth the visit.

One of the biggest draws for pet owners is the welcoming outdoor seating area, where your four-legged travel companion is more than just tolerated — they’re actually welcome. Visitors love that they don’t have to leave their pup behind to enjoy a proper sit-down Italian meal in one of California’s most charming seaside towns. Whether you’re rolling in after a long coastal walk with your dog or just exploring the quaint streets of Carmel, this dog friendly restaurant gives you a genuinely great reason to sit down, relax, and stay a while.

The menu covers all the bases from breakfast and brunch through to lunch and dinner, so no matter what time of day you wander in, there’s something worth ordering. People who visit this dog friendly restaurant are consistently impressed by the cocktail program, the carefully curated wine list, and the dessert options that make it hard to skip that last course. Happy hour is a solid bonus if you’re looking to catch a deal on drinks and small bites.

For those with dietary preferences, this dog friendly restaurant offers vegan and vegetarian options alongside the heartier comfort food dishes, making it a solid pick for groups with mixed tastes. The atmosphere leans romantic and upscale but stays casual enough that families and solo diners feel just as at home as couples celebrating a special occasion.

Reservations are recommended, especially for brunch and dinner, so it’s worth planning ahead. The restaurant is fully wheelchair accessible and accepts a wide range of payment methods. Free street parking is available nearby, making it easy to arrive and get settled in with your furry co-pilot.