Issue link: https://www.e-digitaleditions.com/i/357002
Room rates are surprisingly reasonable for the area, and many of the rooms, while modest, offer porches with tranquil views of Carmel River Beach. Drinks are generously poured in the bar: "Clint said to pour an honest drink," Carota relates. The restaurant on the former working dairy farm once served as a creamery, which supplied cheese and butter to the County. Dinner consists of traditional items ranging from local artichokes, prime rib, burgers, soups and salads. A popular Sunday Jazz Champagne Brunch is offered from 10am-1:30pm. One of the property's former cattle barns housed the Fort Ord Officer's Club during World War II. Today both barns serve as party spots for weddings and other events. "We do dances in the barn," Carota says. "Vince Gill was in here jamming recently." And Eastwood himself can frequently be spotted gliding through the bar, stopping gra- ciously to shake hands and to talk with the loyal patrons, many of whom are singing along and dancing to the tunes at the lively piano bar. A heated outside patio offers dining and cocktail areas with unobstructed views of the ocean. "Guests are respectful of Clint," Carota says. "The one thing he asks is that people not take pictures of him because it might impact the din- ing experience for others." During big local events like the Pebble Beach National Pro-Am golf tournament and the Pebble Beach Concours d'Elegance, celebrities perch on the bar stools under the low ceiling side by side with enthusiastic locals and tourists. Overall, the atmosphere is warm and welcom- ing, with the unbelievable views merging seam- lessly with the unpretentious buildings. "The stars are in alignment here," Carota says. "It's kind of funky but we are a ranch with trees and animals and varmits. People are happy here." The Mission Ranch is located at 26270 Dolores St., Carmel, C A, 93923. 831/625-9040 or www.missionranchcarmel.com. 222 C A R M E L M A G A Z I N E • S U M M E R / F A L L 2 0 1 4 The popular outdoor patio, which offers dinner and drink service, is fronted by graz- ing Scottish black face sheep and views of Carmel River Beach and Point Lobos.