Rio Grill
101 Crossroads Blvd., Carmel
625-5436, www.riogrill.com
For 33 years Rio Grill has stood out as a hub for all levels of festive—the space and food being equally flavorful and fun. A cantina-style bar with caricatures painting the walls welcomes guests to a huge eatery that could entertain the liveliest of gatherings. The restaurant’s success requires a well-oiled machine—a super power indeed. Everybody is where they need to be at the right time, the friendly staff and patrons alike. This is “creative regional California cuisine” as it should be.