Foray

We had a lovely evening at Foray. The service was incredible (thank you Ernesto!) We had 2 cocktails; I enjoyed the Carmelcito. For bites we ordered oysters, row duo and the brown butter brioche- my favorite was the brioche. For starters, we got the scallop, abalone risotto, and short rib raviolo. The presentation was truly stunning and the abalone risotto with truffle was a standout. Not pictured was the Mexican vanilla ice cream for dessert, also excellent.

Absolutely amazing! Foray offers an unforgetable dining experience with its inventive menu served in a stunning, zen interior that strikes a balance between elegance and comfort. The service is both attentive and knowledgeable. The meal was expertly plated and paced. I had the tasting menu and loved the roe trio in their crunchy potato nests. Whether you're a local or just passing through Carmel, Foray is a must visit while in Carmel.

Amazing experience. The restaurant has been opened for a year. Made reservations just a few hours before our seating. The location is quintessential Carmel. Service was spectacular from the moment we arrived. The food was at another level. Everything we had was well done, seasoned and nicely presented. We had the artichoke small plate, the lyonese salad, an Alaskan King Salmon and the chicken. All plates are 5 star recommendations. We went with cocktails for our libations. The lavender cocktail was excellently executed. The passion fruit cocktail could be improved. I mentioned this to the waiter, but they did not do anything to fix this part of the experience. Perhaps an area of improvement. Overall, awesome place and highly recommended.

Nicole B.

Foray absolutely exceeded my expectations. Every dish was incredibly flavorful, and all of the flavors were so thoughtfully paired nothing felt random or heavy handed. The drinks were just as impressive: beautifully presented, creative, and truly delicious. Each course and pairing looked like a piece of art, and you can tell the chef pays attention to every tiny detail. The ambience was warm and comfortable, the kind of place where you can really relax and enjoy the experience. Service was stellar genuinely friendly, attentive without being overbearing, and very knowledgeable about the menu and pairings. From the moment you walk in to the moment you leave, you feel taken care of. I especially loved the thoughtful touch of a little treat as you head out the door. Side note- prepare to leave feeling very full and satisfied. Overall, Foray is a memorable dining experience on every level, and I’m already looking forward to going back.

H NH

I’d like to give Foray 4.5 stars but think the overall experience deserves to be rounded up. my husband and I went for dinner on a Saturday night and got the 3 course dinners with wine pairings. He started with the scallops (very good) and I the tartare (excellent!) then he had the tuna (very good!) and I the risotto (good). We finished with the bread pudding (excellent) and the dark chocolate tres leche (very good). The service was very good although they could never quite keep up with my water consumption (which I recognize is very high). The pairings were good but I did not feel they truly lifted the food to a new level. I felt the risotto could have been better—it needed chunks of mushrooms cooked inside it with a deeper umami punch rather than just raw, foraged mushroom on top (although that’s is very fun). Every course was presented absolutely beautifully. We did have a lovely evening and enjoyed the ambiance.

Michel Chon

Foray was such a wonderful surprise for us! The space is warm, natural, and inviting, with an elegant but relaxed atmosphere that immediately made us feel comfortable. We each chose the three-course tasting menu with accompaniments, and it was such a treat. We started with a cheese board, oysters, and the most incredible brioche bread with house butter. For my courses, I had the scallops (my favorite of the night!), a creamy summer vegetable risotto (soooo delicious), and a refreshing fruit sorbet trio. Everything was absolutely delicious--beautifully prepared without feeling fussy. What really stood out, beyond the food, was the hospitality and culinary creativity curated by Chef Michael. The team explained things in a way that was easy to follow, so even though the menu was creative, we never felt out of our depth. The wine pairings were fantastic too, and added so much to the experience; we had a white burgundy followed by a Pinot noir. Definitely looking forward to our next visit and would highly recommend to all of our friends and family. 5 out of 5 experience

Alexandra Murray

We had the pleasure of dining at Chef Michael’s restaurant, and it was truly a treat. From the moment we arrived, the service and attention to detail stood out. We opted for the three-course meal, beginning with the scallop — not just a starter, but a true work of art. Each dish that followed was both visually stunning and absolutely delicious. The entire experience was thoughtfully curated, making for a memorable evening. We would gladly return to Foray again.

Jose Dias

Foray is a must go to Restaurant whenever I'm in town, it is by far one of my favorites. An absolutely incredible experience from start to finish. The menu is filled with dishes incorporating seasonal ingredients provided by local purveyors. The wine list is esoteric but filled with gems. This last visit we had the wonderful Abalone risotto with its briny, and mild sweetness flavors, simply delicious. For second course the Short ribs which were cooked to perfection. If you’re lucky enough to be able to visit Carmel by the Sea, this is a must go to. My compliments to the Chef and his staff

Steve

We ate Foray last Friday evening with another couple. The Food presentations on every course were truly works of art. Not only were the courses pleasing to the eye, but they were all very delicious. I loved the abalone over risotto course the best. We did the chef tasting with wine pairings. The Sommelier did a great job pairing all of the wines with the various dishes. We had six courses and I Did not go home hungry! Staff was terrific and very attentive. if you’re lucky enough to be able to visit Carmel by the Sea, this is a must visit for the for connoisseurs of fine food and wine.

Patricia Eastman

We enjoyed a splendid Christmas Eve dinner at Foray with our youngest daughter and her husband. The food was stellar, the service exemplary and the atmosphere inviting. Perhaps the best taste sensation was the 1st course - caviar tartlets that melted in one's mouth - but the truffled risotto was a very close second. Despite the hefty price tag, we'll surely be back in the New Year!

Adry Lazcano

Thanks to a small accident, we had the honor of going to dinner at this wonderful place. @forayrestaurant There are not enough words to describe what a fantastic experience my husband and I had. The place is very cozy, the employees are like family. Ernesto our waiter was incredible in explaining every detail of the dishes before ordering and after ordering. All the dishes were incredibly delicious, without exception. Ernesto talked about each dish like saying a poem and talking lovingly about food. The chef came out of the kitchen to greet us and thank us for being there, his wife Caroline was also very attentive, welcoming and polite to us. The bartender prepared a non-alcoholic drink for my husband and I that was delicious and very refreshing. All the desserts were Fantastic!! For me this place is the best place in my life where I have enjoyed eating like a Queen! With my king! I highly recommend this place!!. . . .

M Alonso

Foray in Carmel offers a wonderful dining experience. The restaurant is beautifully designed with a warm atmosphere and inviting ambiance, making it a great spot to enjoy a meal with family. We had the 7-course tasting menu, which was well-paced and delicious. Highlights included caviar, fresh tuna, and a flavorful lobster dish with potatoes. The sorbet palate cleanser was light and refreshing. The risotto with truffle was rich and satisfying, and the ribeye was perfectly cooked. Dessert, a dark chocolate cremeux, was a delightful finish to the meal. The service was attentive and professional, enhancing the overall experience. Foray is an excellent choice for a special evening out, and we look forward to visiting again.

Debby Nguyen

We had a lovely evening at Foray. The service was incredible (thank you Ernesto!) We had 2 cocktails; I enjoyed the Carmelcito. For bites we ordered oysters, row duo and the brown butter brioche- my favorite was the brioche. For starters, we got the scallop, abalone risotto, and short rib raviolo. The presentation was truly stunning and the abalone risotto with truffle was a standout. Not pictured was the Mexican vanilla ice cream for dessert, also excellent.

Anne

Absolutely amazing! Foray offers an unforgetable dining experience with its inventive menu served in a stunning, zen interior that strikes a balance between elegance and comfort. The service is both attentive and knowledgeable. The meal was expertly plated and paced. I had the tasting menu and loved the roe trio in their crunchy potato nests. Whether you're a local or just passing through Carmel, Foray is a must visit while in Carmel.

Manuel Navedo

Amazing experience. The restaurant has been opened for a year. Made reservations just a few hours before our seating. The location is quintessential Carmel. Service was spectacular from the moment we arrived. The food was at another level. Everything we had was well done, seasoned and nicely presented. We had the artichoke small plate, the lyonese salad, an Alaskan King Salmon and the chicken. All plates are 5 star recommendations. We went with cocktails for our libations. The lavender cocktail was excellently executed. The passion fruit cocktail could be improved. I mentioned this to the waiter, but they did not do anything to fix this part of the experience. Perhaps an area of improvement. Overall, awesome place and highly recommended.

Lucy Vogt

Had an amazing dinner at Foray! My fiancé and I got the tasting menu and it was incredible. The chef truly puts so my care into each dish. Our favorite dishes were the Masami Ranch Strip Loin and the Mano De León Scallop. The strip loin was a perfect medium rare and was paired with an amazing Demi glaze, truly a mouth watering dish. (Forgot to take a picture! We were too excited and dug in before snapping a picture) Foray is truly a must eat in Carmel! The experience, the staff, the chef and Caroline make it a remarkable experience.

Last night, we had a lovely private party at Foray. Since its opening, the team has found their groove and elevated the guest experience. The bar program is spot-on, and the food is creative and delectable. As a vegetarian, I was impressed with the flavors and presentation. The champagne by the glass was exceptional. Our server was very professional and attentive. The atmosphere was warm and inviting, especially on a stormy evening.

Never disappoints! At one time or another we have tried all of the special occasion restaurants in the area. We have had some truly exceptional meals but we have also had many experiences where return visits were never as good as the initial experience. Foray is the exception. We first went for my wife’s birthday and we were blown away by the quality of the food, the fine atmosphere and the on-point service. No weird lags between courses, no twisting your head around trying to find a server who refuses to make eye contact. Foray’s level of hospitality is unique and not just for the area. Next, we had family in town and decided we would risk going a second time. We even joked about how bad our luck had been taking family to restaurants that we really loved. Again it was an amazing experience. At this point we have visited many times and each time was better than the last. We would highly recommend this restaurant for a family gathering or intimate evening. Looking forward to going back again!

Foray completely delivered, the food felt thoughtful and intentional without trying too hard. Each dish was balanced and beautifully executed. You can tell the chef is pushing to become the best. Nothing was over complicated, just clean flavors done at a very high level. It’s rare to leave a restaurant feeling genuinely impressed by the cooking itself, but that was the case here. Major credit to the chef, the ambition and attention to detail are obvious. We are excited to dine at Foray again!

Jose and the entire Foray team made my mother’s 76th birthday celebration truly unforgettable. Our guests couldn’t stop raving about the exceptional food, its beautiful presentation, and the attentive, gracious service. Jose was especially wonderful—thoughtful, responsive, and a pleasure to work with throughout the planning process, which made everything feel effortless. Foray is a remarkable destination for both intimate dinners and special celebrations. From the cuisine to the décor to the hospitality, every detail is thoughtfully executed. They even offer a beautiful private dining room, though we ultimately chose the main dining space, which was just as elegant and inviting. An outstanding experience from start to finish.

Had an amazing dinner at Foray over the weekend. Everyone was so welcoming and we received a great explanation of the menu. My partner and I decided to do the tasting menu and it blew both of us away. Creative, delicious, and everything was cooked to perfection! The scallop was a highlight for me. My partner really enjoyed the braised short rib which melted in your mouth! The chocolate tres leches cake was out of this world - it put all other tres leches I've had to shame. Not to mention their dedication to sustainability is nothing short of admirable. Don't sleep on this place, it's well worth the visit!

Sandi Hahamian

Last night, we had a lovely private party at Foray. Since its opening, the team has found their groove and elevated the guest experience. The bar program is spot-on, and the food is creative and delectable. As a vegetarian, I was impressed with the flavors and presentation. The champagne by the glass was exceptional. Our server was very professional and attentive. The atmosphere was warm and inviting, especially on a stormy evening.

Vann Nalbone

Just celebrated my 3rd anniversary here and had a phenomenal time! The scallop appetizer, Fogline Farm Chicken main and the Pear desert were simply divine. The Fogline chicken was not only cooked to perfection, but was the most elegant chicken dish I've ever seen! The entire staff and Chef were exemplar. They made our anniversary truly special!

S Abraham

Never disappoints! At one time or another we have tried all of the special occasion restaurants in the area. We have had some truly exceptional meals but we have also had many experiences where return visits were never as good as the initial experience. Foray is the exception. We first went for my wife’s birthday and we were blown away by the quality of the food, the fine atmosphere and the on-point service. No weird lags between courses, no twisting your head around trying to find a server who refuses to make eye contact. Foray’s level of hospitality is unique and not just for the area. Next, we had family in town and decided we would risk going a second time. We even joked about how bad our luck had been taking family to restaurants that we really loved. Again it was an amazing experience. At this point we have visited many times and each time was better than the last. We would highly recommend this restaurant for a family gathering or intimate evening. Looking forward to going back again!

Brittnie Ramsey

I’m a couple years late but I was thinking about my experience and thought I needed to write a review about their wonderful hospitality. I had made reservations for 10/26/23 for me and my husband to enjoy a nice restaurant after our elopement day. I revived a phone call the morning of my wedding day informing me the restaurant had some water line issues in the kitchen and unfortunately the whole restaurant wouldn’t be able to open that day. I had made a note that we were coming in after our elopement. The lady on the phone (unfortunately I don’t remember her name) told me the whole situation at their restaurant was very apologetic. What blew me away was she informed me that she had reservations held for us at 2 different Michelin Star restaurants in the area for us to choose from for dinner. What hospitality! They knew this was a special day for us and they went above and beyond to make sure we had a nice dinner to celebrate. Unfortunately we never had a chance to eat here but whenever I’m back in the area this will be the first restaurant I go to. I’ve worked in fine dining for almost 10 years and was amazed with how they treated this situation. Thank you Foray! What

Jenny Petri

What a wonderful experience! The service was exemplary and the food excellent. We opted for the 3 course menu. Each course was inventive, with wonderful combinations of flavors and textures. I am still dreaming about the kale salad. I had not planned to order it until the couple sitting next to us said it was the best salad they had ever had. I’m so glad that I did, as I completely agree with their assessment. Kudos to Chef Michael Chang!!

Ambience was great.. service was great.. desserts were great.. the food didn’t meet our expectations. Maybe our palate was a bit upscaled, coming from NYC. But it felt like the dishes were made to match the price the chef had set in his mind. The first dish from the Chef’s Menu was caviar with fried potato. It was ok, except we thought it would have been better if the potato was mousse. It seemed like they had put in lots of work in making the shape of the chip but it tasted like store-bought potato chip. The second scallop dish was great. Very pretty and had a nice balance of flavor and texture. It was a bit salty for us but it may not be for others. The third abalone dish was good too. Abalone and risotto were cooked perfectly. Only thing that we thought didn’t harmonize with the rest of the dish was the pesto. There is a dish in Korea called jeonbokjook (abalone porridge). It uses the abalone organs to enhance the taste. If the pesto had used the organs, it would have brought out more intensified abalone flavor. Next was the lemon sorbet to cleanse the palate. It was impeccable. They had used local meyer lemon which almost tasted like yuzu. The beauty of using local ingredients!! The main dish was steak with steamed veggies. This was honestly the most disappointing. The steak, carrot puree, and steamed veggies (except for the grilled king oyster mushroom) all had similar texture and the dish wasn’t fun at all. Chimichurri sauce was very good but it didn’t really fit the cut of the steak. If they had used a different cut—sth with more texture—it would have been better. Bread pudding (sorry no pic) for the dessert was surreal. Not overly sweet but with a very slight freshness using orange peel (i think?) and the creme that came with was very good and unique as well. We also received brioche and assorted sorbet as complimentary (sorry no pic). They were both heavenly. Huckleberry flavor from the assorted sorbet could be either you like it or hate it but i liked it!! My partner didn’t lol very unique flavors overall that you don’t encounter at other restaurants and we were happy with the experience.

Grace Yoon

Ambience was great.. service was great.. desserts were great.. the food didn’t meet our expectations. Maybe our palate was a bit upscaled, coming from NYC. But it felt like the dishes were made to match the price the chef had set in his mind. The first dish from the Chef’s Menu was caviar with fried potato. It was ok, except we thought it would have been better if the potato was mousse. It seemed like they had put in lots of work in making the shape of the chip but it tasted like store-bought potato chip. The second scallop dish was great. Very pretty and had a nice balance of flavor and texture. It was a bit salty for us but it may not be for others. The third abalone dish was good too. Abalone and risotto were cooked perfectly. Only thing that we thought didn’t harmonize with the rest of the dish was the pesto. There is a dish in Korea called jeonbokjook (abalone porridge). It uses the abalone organs to enhance the taste. If the pesto had used the organs, it would have brought out more intensified abalone flavor. Next was the lemon sorbet to cleanse the palate. It was impeccable. They had used local meyer lemon which almost tasted like yuzu. The beauty of using local ingredients!! The main dish was steak with steamed veggies. This was honestly the most disappointing. The steak, carrot puree, and steamed veggies (except for the grilled king oyster mushroom) all had similar texture and the dish wasn’t fun at all. Chimichurri sauce was very good but it didn’t really fit the cut of the steak. If they had used a different cut—sth with more texture—it would have been better. Bread pudding (sorry no pic) for the dessert was surreal. Not overly sweet but with a very slight freshness using orange peel (i think?) and the creme that came with was very good and unique as well. We also received brioche and assorted sorbet as complimentary (sorry no pic). They were both heavenly. Huckleberry flavor from the assorted sorbet could be either you like it or hate it but i liked it!! My partner didn’t lol very unique flavors overall that you don’t encounter at other restaurants and we were happy with the experience.

My husband and I are visiting Carmel and Foray was our much awaited New Year’s Eve meal. The restaurant agreed to seat us well before our original reservation time, so things started off on a very positive note. We were served by Selena and had the four course set menu and a cocktail each. With regards to the food, we withheld feedback during service in order not to make a scene in a festive time and busy restaurant, but should have really raised concerns when we were served two extremely disappointing courses. When we got our bill we shared feedback with Selena aside: We both got the lobster starter, which was smelly, bitter and overcooked. The lobster meat was chewy and rubbery. Our short rib entree was cold, and the fat was not fully rendered. Celina took this feedback to her manager, they left us waiting for several minutes after which she continued doing other things. The manager abruptly handed us the bill and just walked away. Our reservation was through Tock and was paid for, We received a 15% discount on our bill through our hotel. We paid $472 through Tock for the food and $67 for two cocktails. The managers attitude and ambivalence to our experience, that he didn’t even think it was worth acknowledging was a real disservice to what otherwise could have been an okay experience. We’ll never return to Foray and never recommend it. Aside from the food that wasn’t great, the sheer lack of customer service in an establishment of this price point was a really poor experience.

Megha Agarwal

My husband and I are visiting Carmel and Foray was our much awaited New Year’s Eve meal. The restaurant agreed to seat us well before our original reservation time, so things started off on a very positive note. We were served by Selena and had the four course set menu and a cocktail each. With regards to the food, we withheld feedback during service in order not to make a scene in a festive time and busy restaurant, but should have really raised concerns when we were served two extremely disappointing courses. When we got our bill we shared feedback with Selena aside: We both got the lobster starter, which was smelly, bitter and overcooked. The lobster meat was chewy and rubbery. Our short rib entree was cold, and the fat was not fully rendered. Celina took this feedback to her manager, they left us waiting for several minutes after which she continued doing other things. The manager abruptly handed us the bill and just walked away. Our reservation was through Tock and was paid for, We received a 15% discount on our bill through our hotel. We paid $472 through Tock for the food and $67 for two cocktails. The managers attitude and ambivalence to our experience, that he didn’t even think it was worth acknowledging was a real disservice to what otherwise could have been an okay experience. We’ll never return to Foray and never recommend it. Aside from the food that wasn’t great, the sheer lack of customer service in an establishment of this price point was a really poor experience.