La Balena - Carmel

Service was bad. Meatball appetizer was over cooked. Spaghetti carbonara was flavorless and pasta was undercooked. Would not recommend. Go anywhere else for better food and service.

Service was great, food really was not. Paid 200 bucks for unseasoned seafood risotto, coagulated carbonara, mid meatballs, chefs salad that was just 10 lettuce leaves. Branzino was good, but I’m so surprised I wound up paying 200+ for such a meal. Not fine dining imo. Have nothing against this restaurant, just shocked I paid 200 for such a meal

Delicious Italian restaurant. Very recommended! The dishes were all great, although we hoped that the portions were a little bigger.

We stayed in Carmel on a Saturday afternoon looking for a restaurant for an early dinner. Most places were booked for the whole night! After a while, we found La Balena. We were lucky. Not only to find a restaurant that was open, but one with this good food!!! It was perfect for both of us and our young granddaughter! Most of the seats are outside, but with heating, so it doesn't get too cold, but with a lot of fresh air. My wife had the Rigatoni. She thought it was very good. I had the lamb. It was fantastic! Very delicate and tasteful. My granddaughter had a simple Rigatoni with Marinara sauce. She ate everything plus a little of my lamb. The staff was extremely helpful, polite and friendly! Meals were served quickly. We had no better experience!

Had the sea bass on the bed of spinach and mango salsa at the top, and Rigatoni. Bottle of Pertimali wine. Perfect dinner in Carmel. Great service. Would come back. Small family owned feeling and good food