A Review on the Best Mexican Restaurant in Downtown Carmel-by-the-Sea: Nicolas Cocina de Herencia
Celebrating a unique blend of modern Mexican cuisine with Michoacán heritage
Nicolas Cocina De Herencia, located in downtown Carmel-by-the-Sea, is an upscale Mexican restaurant that celebrates the rich culinary heritage of Michoacán. The restaurant seamlessly marries this deep-rooted tradition with an innovative approach to fine dining, creating a memorable experience for all of its patrons.
Each dish is crafted with attention to the authentic flavors of Michoacán, transporting you to the rich, welcoming, and vibrant land of this region of Mexico.
Committed to sustainably sourced ingredients and bold flavors
At Nicolas Cocina De Herencia, the commitment to quality is evident through their dedication to using sustainably sourced ingredients. I personally spent time in the kitchen and saw an abundance of fresh produce as well as some traditional Mexican cookware, such as the tortilladora. Everything is made in house, so prepare to be wowed at first bite.
The establishment supports environmental sustainability but also ensures that each meal bursts with the freshest and boldest flavors. The thoughtfully curated menu celebrates diversity and is designed to cater to various palates and dietary needs, making sure every guest enjoys a memorable dining experience.
Dining Experience
Dining at this loved Mexican restaurant is an experience in itself. As soon as you walk in, you’re greeted and welcomed by a friendly and warm staff. The hostess desk is beautifully ornate with a Virgin Mary statue behind it, with their logo proudly lit up.
Dining here for date night has never been so perfect, with its ambient lighting and soft Mexican music playing in the background. If you’re dining here with your family, I recommend booking one of their bigger tables, which has a chandelier set above it. Perfect. Upscale. Marvelous. Just the way it should be.
Menu Highlights
Their diverse and thoughtfully curated menu will have you drooling while you’re deciding on what to order. Here are a few meals I recommend ordering for dinner:
- For starters, I recommend the Salsa Trio, Esquite Bone Marrow, Birria Queso Fundido, and the Birria Taquitos.
- For the mains, I recommend ordering the Molcajete, Black Angus Ribeye, Cochinita Pibil, and the Mole Negro.
While I have yet to try out their brunch menu, you can try their dishes for yourself from 11 AM to 3 PM and let me know what I should order.
Dinner service is from 5 PM to 9 PM.
Perfect Pairings: Wine/Cocktails and Mexican Cuisine
Their cocktail menu is quite impressive, with their mocktails being as equally impressive. Some cocktails I recommend include the Tulum Margarita, Paraiso Martini, and the Espresso Martini.
The restaurant also includes some local wines as well as some wines from Mexico.
Why Nicolas Cocina de Herencia is Worth the Reservation
If the pictures haven’t sold you yet, or my description of the wonderful service, aesthetics, or the delicious food, then I don’t know what to tell you. This restaurant is a must-visit for anyone looking for a gorgeous place to unwind after a day of exploring Carmel by the Sea.
Making Reservations
To make a reservation, you can click here.
Best Mexican Restaurant in Monterey County
Do share your experience with me if you end up dining here. I would love to hear your thoughts!
All photos were taken by me. I founded a travel and hospitality marketing agency called She’s Out of Town.
