The Hangout Cafe - Carmel Hamlet

We watched this restaurant being constructed during covid. That in of itself was courageous. We just saw the channel 12 news report on what this restaurant, it's owner staff have been going through. Disgraceful! We couldn't wait to move to Carmel, we can't wait to move. Such a beautiful area, but the level of hate, fueling racism, homophobia make it a dark ugly community! This isn't making America great, it's making America hate! For God's sake we ALL have red blood!! Keep serving up your wonderful food, stay strong! We stand in solidarity with you. God bless!!!

I’m here now and it’s absolutely delicious ! I was surprised how good it is after I read some of these reviews. I got a huge watermelon drink and the roasted chicken with plantains. It’s more of an upscale restaurant inside than a hangout. It’s a perfect place to bring a date. I’m a hot female n I approve of this place. There’s great live music too! The prices are actually fair for what we got. It’s a restaurant not some fast food place. Not expensive. Not cheap. I recommend ordering extra sweet plantains cause they are fire! Service was great we had Paula. Everyone’s raving about how good their food is and clapping for the musician playing. A woman raved about her salmon and her 5th grade son scarfed his burger down. I’ll be back for sure! Wow. Kid-friendliness: A good mix of single people, people on dates and families.

This is an absolute gem located in Carmel. A real blend of Spanish/American fresh cooking, full of flavor. We were entertained with a wonderful guitarist who sings as well. Make the trip. Support local eateries. Service: Delivery Meal type: Brunch Price per person: $10–20 Recommended dishes: Famous Cuban, Sweet Plantains, Lemon Chicken, Avocado Toast

This is my first review ever. We went for Mother's Day. Great food. Great owners/staff as well as entertainment. Love that they have artists come and sing/play/perform. Can't wait to go back!!! Meal type: Brunch

In previous visits, the staff had been very attentive, but that wasn’t the case this time. With only one other table occupied, our waitress seemed disinterested; she walked away before my mother could decide on her order after just handing us the specials. She left saying she needed to step away, and in that moment, she didn’t take either my husband’s or my mother's order. She didn’t return until about ten minutes later, when she noticed the owner talking to us. Throughout our meal, she didn’t check on us, and we had to ask a different staff member to take the soup back because it was cold. My husband ordered a mango mojito, but it tasted overly sweet, just like syrup. Additionally, my daughter's drink took 15 minutes to arrive. I hope this experience was simply an off day and possibly due to a new staff member. I truly hope the management takes note because I would love to give this restaurant another chance if the drinks and service improve. On a positive note, thank you for the Mother's Day chocolate cakesicle; it was a lovely touch! UPDATE: The owner came by our table to apologize for our experience, and he was very accommodating. We really appreciate his quick attention and dedication to his customers and business. Despite today's challenges, it’s encouraging to see how invested he is in his establishment and its patrons. We’re looking forward to returning.