Dametra Cafe
Southeast corner of Ocean Avenue and Lincoln Street, Carmel
(831) 622-7766, www.dametracafe.com
It’s a Mediterranean mashup of upbeat oud and satisfying food that treat Dametra’s diners to a truly unique dining experience. No, seriously, this Carmel gem recently ranked sixth in a national poll of Yelp-reviewed restaurants, thanks in part to authentic plates like the Jerusalem kafta, Greek moussaka and a stacked gyros plate complete with roasted lamb and beef. The warm, welcoming atmosphere and spontaneous dancing sessions set Dametra apart from scores of other modest eateries, Mediterranean or otherwise. And their sizable list of outstanding local wines doesn’t hurt much either.