Perfect Pairings
CHEZ NOIR CAVIAR
Experience part of Chez Noir’s Michelin-starred menu at home with the restaurant’s private-label caviar, created in partnership with Sausalito’s California Caviar Co. Top any dish, like they do at the restaurant, for a fancy and festive way to ring in the holidays. $130 for 1 oz. jar; Chez Noir, 5th Ave. between Dolores & San Carlos St., Carmel-by-the-Sea; cheznoircarmel.com. Available at the restaurant or by emailing info@cheznoircarmel.com.
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SEASHELL CAVIAR DISH
Present the perfect caviar (or just about anything else) in these stunning resin-and-shell caviar dishes made by artists in the Philippines. Available in two sizes (large, $300; small, $190) and a range of colors. Shop Shoshin, 831.877.6300; studioshoshin.com. Mention Concept Carmel in-store for 10% off your purchase.
FRUITY EXTRA VIRGIN OLIVE OIL
Founded by Evan Loewy of Other Brother Beer, this 100% organic Arbosana olive oil is locally and sustainably grown. Its mellow and sweet notes enhance any meal. So, dip, pour, and give generously. (Bonus: the label is illustrated by Loewy's wife, artist Maria Schoettler.) $28; Somewhere in Carmel, San Carlos between Ocean & 7th, Carmel-by-the-Sea, 831.238.3045. Use code CONCEPTCARMEL for 10% off at somewhereincarmel.com.
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AD ASTRA BREAD
A must for enjoying olive oils—and just about everything else—Ad Astra breads are the go-to for local chefs and restaurants. Grab a wreath-shaped baguette, or any daily special, to pair with holiday hostess gifts and family gatherings. Now at Ad Astra’s newly opened Alvarado Street shop in Monterey. adastrabread.com.
MOD GLASS CHEESE BOARD
Gather friends and family around a holiday feast featuring Annieglass’s artful serveware. Brushed with 24K gold or platinum, these modern glass cheese boards from the Watsonville-based brand are a stunning addition to any table—especially when paired with crowd-pleasing cheeses. $139-$208; annieglass.com.
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THE CHEESE SHOP X CONCEPT CARMEL
We've partnered with The Cheese Shop for the perfect picnic to enjoy all season. Our exclusive “Beachgoer” assortment includes your choice of flavors of Rustic Bakery crackers, Olli salumi, Mitica jams, and Moon Shine Trading Co. honeys. Plus, three distinct cheeses (each ⅓ lb) selected after a tasting to find your favorites. Ask for the “Beachgoer” and mention Concept Carmel to receive our reader-only price of $43. The Cheese Shop, Carmel Plaza, Suite 109, Carmel-by-the-Sea, 831.625.2272; thecheeseshopinc.com.
AT EASE TEA
The pairing every parent needs, this calming blend of organic herbs (passionvine, skullcap, calendula, and more) supports mind-body relaxation so you can sneak in a moment of zen, anytime. Made by local postpartum wellness brand, Earth Milk Moon. $30; earthmilkmoon.com.
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BALANCE BLOCKS
Let your child’s inner architect shine with this nontoxic wood block set handmade in Ukraine by SABO Concept. The open-ended play is sure to entertain—offering you a chance to achieve some balance, too. $60-$225; Olivia and Daisy Carmel Valley, 831.620.9290, oliviaanddaisy.com.
Let loved ones know you have their interests at heart by supporting a local cause they care about and uplifting our community at the same time.
SPCA MONTEREY COUNTY
Honor the pet-loving people in your life with a donation to the SPCA Monterey County. They'll receive an email letting them know of your thoughtful tribute, and local animals will receive a little extra love this holiday season. spcamc.org.
HOUSING FOR KIDS
Support Housing For Kids’s mission to end housing insecurity for school-aged children in Monterey County by shopping during their Dec. 4 fundraising event at Ami. The popular Carmel gift boutique will donate 20% of the day’s gross sales to the cause, and you’ll get to “Sip, Savor, Shop & Support.” ami, 831.620.1600; amicarmel.com; housingkids.com.
GIRLS INC. OF THE CENTRAL COAST
Through mentorships, afterschool programs and summer camps, Girls Inc. empowers more than 1,300 girls per year in Monterey, San Benito and Santa Cruz counties. Make a donation in honor of a special someone and a local girl will be one step closer to reaching her potential. Contact Girls Inc. to have a gift notification letter sent to your recipient. girlsinccc.org.
*All products selected without undue influence. Offers valid Nov. 2023 — Jan. 2024, subject to change.