Hyatt Carmel Highlands to reinvent popular Pacific's Edge, California Market.

This would qualify as a nice way to celebrate a 100th birthday.

The swanky Hyatt Carmel Highlands, which overlooks the Pacific from its perch high above Highway 101, has embarked on some significant updates to award-winning Pacific’s Edge restaurant (622-5445), a century since the lodge's start in 1916.

The makeover includes redone décor and, most dramatically, a new 40-seat, 1,200-square-foot patio making the most of the views.

Once makeovers on the heated open-air space are completed, Pacific’s Edge will merge with the hotel’s casual bistro, California Market (622-5450), to become one restaurant.

That reflects a wider trend among upscale spots to make their menus and vibe less intimidating, something recently seen with the former Marinus high-end restaurant and more laidback Wickets bistro concept reborn as beautiful but more casual Lucia at Bernardus in Carmel Valley.

Pacific's Edge Exec Chef Chad Minton and Executive Sous Chef Alvaro Dalmau are at work crafting a new menu that draws from the best of both restaurants.

The thick 50-page wine list at Pacific's Edge will also see some updates, and a greater tilt toward Monterey County labels.

The reinvented restaurant is scheduled to open during the second quarter of 2016.

​Paul Byrne Architect, who specializes in LEED design, is masterminding the project.

The Sunset Lounge is also underway with its own updates—think new furnishings, living room-style pieces and party-friendly spaces.

California Market remains open in the interim, complete with brunch seven days a week and dinner selections from Pacific’s Edge.

Some things to look out for include new stylish takes on California and Mexican comfort food—think confit chicken tortas, chicken sofrito empanadas, daily catch ceviche, Baja fish tacos, ahi quinoa salad and grilled cheese with braised short rib.