Carmel

If Santa Barbara and Buckhead had a beautiful, well-moisturized baby, Carmel would be it. Tucked stylishly in the Buckhead Village District, Carmel is an ode to breezy California coastal cuisine—only here, the waves are made of cocktail foam and the beachwear is Valentino. It’s light, it’s lovely, and it’s exactly where you go when you're craving seafood and social capital.

The design is effortlessly chic: sun-washed neutrals, natural textures, and just enough rattan to make you question if you should redo your entire home. The menu is a masterclass in “clean girl” indulgence—think harissa carrots, crudo kissed by citrus, and branzino that arrives with the confidence of a Beverly Hills divorce lawyer.

Carmel is the perfect backdrop for those who want to flirt with wellness without actually giving up carbs. And let’s be honest, nothing says “I do Pilates now” like sipping an herbaceous cocktail under a ficus while wearing silk pants you can’t afford to spill on.

Popular dishes: Charred Octopus, Harissa Carrots, Grilled Branzino, Ricotta Gnocchi, Seasonal Crudos
Perfect for: Health-conscious hedonists, networking lunches disguised as spa dates, weekday soft-launches for weekend situationships
Vibes: West Coast lightness with Buckhead budgets
Reservations: A must—especially if you want that golden-hour window seat