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This Review of Lucia Restaurant at the Bernardus Lodge & Spa in Carmel, California is from a recent visit, during a stay at Carmel Valley Ranch, which is a 6-minute drive away. Bernardus Lodge & Spa, at 415 West Carmel Valley Road, is a 5-minute drive from downtown Carmel Valley, with several winery tasting rooms, restaurants, and shops, and a 20-minute drive from Carmel-by-the-Sea.
While we weren't staying at the Bernardus Lodge on this trip, the lobby and reception staff of two were far more welcoming than the almost surly Carmel Valley Ranch front desk employee who had barely had time to check us in. We were graciously pointed in the direction of Lucia Restaurant, which is to the left after entering the lobby.
We were glad we'd made a reservation earlier that day, since almost every table was occupied.
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By the time we departed, one of the banquette tables near us had opened up. These provide a cozy nook for couples or three-four friends or family members.
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Lucia Restaurant Menu and Food
The menu included both stalwart classics, such as Caesar Salad, Porcini Mushroom Ravioli and Beef Tenderloin, and dishes with a bit more creative flair, such as Ahi Tuna Zuke Tartare with crispy rice pearls, cherry blossom ponzu and ginger tumeric oil, and Local Cauliflower Kurma with purple sticky rice, caramelized onions, and coconut curry sauce.
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I was in the mood for comfort food, so instead of ordering a main course, I decided on the green chili wild mushroom mac and cheese with herbs, which hit the spot. The toasted panko crumbs added delightful crunch, and while I would have enjoyed even more wild mushrooms, the combination of earthy and herbal flavors elevated this classic.
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The Swank Farms Brussels Sprouts was also delicious. The brussels sprouts weren't quite as crispy as I'd have liked (the ones at One Iron Bar at Cordevalle were better), the flavor combination with feta cheese, pepitas, and pomegranate molasses was excellent.
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My friend chose the Market Fish, halibut, for her entree. While on the pricey side, at $48, it was perfectly prepared: crispy exterior, but not overcooked, and came on a delicious bed of black lentils, with some asparagus and micro greens. She isn't able to eat black pepper, and the kitchen ensured a black pepper-free dish.
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The Verdict
We enjoyed our dinner at Lucia Restaurant, in the Bernardus Lodge & Spa in Carmel. Everything we ordered was well prepared, and the side dishes of mac and cheese and brussels sprouts were generous serving sizes. It did take some time for our dishes to come out, as the restaurant was busy, but our server was attentive throughout. We have heard that service can be more inconsistent at busy times, so consider avoiding peak times and holidays.
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