Carmel-by-the-Sea may be a horribly pricey area to stay, but its restaurants are well-priced. Among the many is Village Corner, true to its name as a tiny little al fresco spot on 6th Ave. and Dolores. Navy bean soup is hearty and warming, and grilled Monterey sand dabs are tender and flaky. A thick, crisp risotto and goat cheese cake is surrounded by stewed wild mushrooms and Italian vegetables. Delicate al dente capellini are tossed with flavorful prawns, sun-dried tomatoes, and asparagus. Creamy polenta is the base for a delicious grilled vegetable tower with soy balsamic glaze. Intensely garlicky chicken sets the stage for soft, pillowy gnocchi with jus. Apparently I'm not the sole fan of Village Corner's Mediterranean fare--I watched an Italian tourist take a bite of her pistachio and pepper-crusted salmon and saw her eyes close in bliss. Visit and discover for yourself.
Pros: Marvelous food, outstanding service, intimate gorgeous ambience
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