Jason Van Camp If it werent for the terrible meal my wife attempted, but did not finish, at another restaurant earlier in the evening, we might never have stopped in to Il Tegamino. However, since she was still hungry and very unsatisfied, and knowing how she can get when she is HANGRY (just kidding, babe!), I knew this was a problem that needed to be solved.
With no reservation, and a double-stroller in tow, finding a table at a restaurant during peak dinner hours in Carmel-by-the-Sea on a weekend started seeming like an impossibility, but we happened to luck into a patio table here at Il Tegamino. Having already dined myself, I sat this one out, content to keep the kiddos busy while my wife enjoyed her bruschetta and a glass of wine.
Although we didnt get the "full experience", in the short time we were there, we conversed with two different couples who were seated around us, both of which claimed that this was their favorite restaurant in Carmel, and favorite Italian restaurant in general. In fact, one of the men, a self-professed former "regular" here (before he moved away for school), had made a special detour during his road trip specifically to dine here again that night. The owner definitely recognized him, and they had a familiar rapport that validated his story, and his enthusiasm. That sort of devotion says far more good things about this place than any review I could ever write.
Stellar service, incredible food, romantic décor, and a quiet, beautiful location tucked away from the crowds of Carmel; Il Tegamino is a hidden gem that is worth seeking out, and comes about as close to replicating the vibe of Tuscany as you can get here in the states. Very, very recommended...and not just by my wife and I: those other two couples would assuredly back me up on this!
