The Pocket

**The Pocket in Big Sur / Carmel**

Tucked away amidst the rugged cliffs and whispering Redwoods of Big Sur, The Pocket emerges as a beacon of culinary excellence, crafting an ambiance of understated elegance for those discerning travelers who meander along the scenic Highway 1. The Pocket's prime location near Carmel provides it with the unique opportunity to blend the enchanting wilderness of Big Sur with the artistic vibe and sophistication for which Carmel is renowned.

As you step through the handcrafted wooden doors, the interior of The Pocket greets you with a warmth that belies the often-misty coastal air. The decor strikes a balance between rustic charm and contemporary chic, featuring local artwork, and expansive windows that afford breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean. The seating arrangement offers an intimate dining experience, with well-spaced tables ensuring privacy, while the gentle lighting complements the natural beauty that envelopes the space.

The cuisine at The Pocket is a testament to the region's abundance, with menus that evolve to reflect the freshest locally sourced ingredients. Executive Chef Olivia Sanchez, a maestro of contemporary Californian fare with a refined global twist, ensures that each dish is not only a feast for the palate but also a visual masterpiece.

Signature dishes include:

- **Big Sur Bouillabaisse**: A coastal rendition of the classic French stew, loaded with the catch of the day from the nearby Monterey Bay, simmered in a rich saffron-infused broth alongside local fennel and heirloom potatoes.

- **Carmel Valley Greens**: A salad featuring a medley of organic greens and edible flowers sourced from the neighboring Carmel Valley, dressed with a Meyer lemon vinaigrette, and topped with candied pecans and crumbled goat cheese from a local farmstead.

- **Abalone Risotto**: A creamy, dreamy risotto that spotlights Monterey Bay’s prized abalone, paired with forest mushrooms and a hint of white truffle oil, each bite encapsulating the essence of land and sea.

- **Maple Glazed Quail**: A nod to Big Sur's wild side, this dish presents a delicate quail glazed in Big Sur maple and lavender, accompanied by a confit of butternut squash and a drizzle of pomegranate reduction.

- **Artisanal Cheese Board**: A curated selection of Northern California’s finest cheeses, this board is a journey through regional dairies. Paired with house-made chutneys, local honeycomb, and freshly baked bread, it’s the perfect preamble or epilogue to your meal.

The wine list at The Pocket is a carefully composed anthology of local vintages, including those from the celebrated vineyards of Carmel Valley, as well as international selections to please the palate of oenophiles and novice sippers alike.

As an establishment that prides itself not just on food but on the full dining experience, The Pocket in Big Sur/Carmel imbues each visit with a sense of occasion, be it a romantic dinner for two or a celebratory gathering for a special event. It's a culinary haven that demands to be experienced with all senses, promising an unforgettable journey through the best that California's central coast has to offer.