Issue link: https://www.e-digitaleditions.com/i/784242
Owners Faisal Nimri and Bashar Sneeh or taBella's charming exterior and dog-friendly stone patio beckon both locals and visitors strolling on Ocean Avenue in Carmel. Two interior dining areas, one with a cozy f ireplace, plus a rear patio, offer more seating options for guests and private par ties. Fresh meals from the locally sourced European-styled menu include steamed Mussels au Vin Blanc, Pollo al Mattone, a Blue cheese burger, Monterey Bay Sand Dabs, grilled Spanish octopus, oven-braised shor t ribs, and Beef Tenderloin Perigourdine. The friendly staff helps pair the French, Spanish, Italian and California-inspired creations with a custom-crafted cocktail or a glass of wine from the charming and well-stocked bar. The restaurant is par t of the growing local empire of Dametra Café owners Faisal Nimri and Bashar Sneeh, who also took over Merlot Bistro, now known as Mediterranean Restaurant, last year. Elegant lighting creates a romantic feel; but the sophisticated restaurant manages to create a welcoming and relaxed mood for all diners. Finish off the meal with a unique desser t like the rosewater crème brûlée, pistachio ice cream or a classic tiramisu, created with Italian Mascarpone cheese, ladyfingers plunged in rum and coffee and shaved chocolate. —Sabrina Speidel P Photos: Kelli Uldall 182 C A R M E L M A G A Z I N E • W I N T E R 2 0 1 7 Lamb Tenderloin pan-seared, with roasted baby potatoes, vegetables and huckleberry port reduction Ocean Avenue btwn. Lincoln and Monte Verde Carmel • 831/624-4395 www.portabellacarmel.com good taste Ocean Avenue btwn. Lincoln Ocean Avenue btwn. Lincoln PortaBella