One of the best restaurants in Carmel, Rio Grill is Carmel dining that turns up the flavor with a southwestern flair, serving fresh local Californian eats while impressing food critics and foodies alike. Earning distinguished culinary awards for downtown Carmel restaurants, Rio Grill has been part of the local restaurants Carmel by the Sea lore for 36 years. Welcome to creative American food at its best with a full bar, great wine and impeccable service.