Carmelita vegetarian restaurant and bar, opened its doors to the public on December 1st, 1996. Proprietors Kathryn Neumann and Michael Hughes named the restaurant after Michael's mother Carmelita, who inspired all around her with her love of life, art, food and family. The restaurant was designed and decorated by these two former decorative painters from Chicago. Most recently, (July of 2009) a full bar was added to round out the Carmelita dining experience. The restaurant seats 70, with 20 seats in the bar. In the warmer months, the garden patio seats an additional 24. Patio season is extended by a heated and covered seating area, with flannel blankets for extra warmth.
The menu at Carmelita changes quite frequently. As "in season" items become available, the menu changes to reflect local ingredients for a true "farm-to-table" experience. Independent farmers and foragers are heartily supported, and every dish is made from scratch using only the freshest organic produce, grains, cheeses, herbs and spices. Our online menu is updated to include all our current offerings.
The new "Carma-bar"
Chef Carlos Caula
Chef Carlos Caula came on as chef at Carmelita in March 2009 after moving to Seattle from Washington DC. Chef Carlos, a native of Cuba, is a graduate of Le Cordon Bleu in London and has worked in top restaurants in both Colombia, South America, and the U.S. His resume includes time spent at Bistrot Lepic and Citronelle, and three years as Executive Sous Chef at Restaurant Nora in Washington DC.
Chef Caula has an affinity for the “farm-to-table” philosophy and strives to use seasonal ingredients from local organic farmers, cheese makers, and foragers. His passion for food is evident in his unsurpassed attention to detail, combination of complex flavors, and artful presentations. In addition, Chef Carlos brings his enthusiasm and energy to create a collaborative environment with the Carmelita crew, inspiring those around him by establishing a respectful atmosphere that encourages others to contribute, learn, and create.
Look for great things from Carmelita’s Chef Carlos Caula. His food will surely amaze!
