Will’s Fargo Restaurant

Stopped in from wine tasting in valley
Greeted by kind gentleman and seated right away
Service was on point and didn’t miss a beat in keeping drinks full and delivering hot food
I had the sausage and peppers sandwich and it was decent, would have liked to see two links and more peppers
Wife had chicken club and it was a thick breast and thick cut bacon. Tasted great and well prepared
Good people and food was decent, price not bad

Not worth the money or the drive. Service was very poor and food was tasteless.
The most surprising thing was when we ordered the Arnold palmers. It is made with 7-​up, lemon juice, sweet and sour and extra strong tea. It tasted so bad. Be prepared for that surprise.
We had a really bad Mother’s Day experience here. I was really hoping to love it.
The staff was super friendly and welcoming. We were seated right away.
We ordered Arnold palmers and like I mentioned, it was not just plain iced tea and lemonade which was unexpected. So we had to send that back.
And the food was alright. My daughter had the brioche French toast which was very good.
My mom got the potato pancakes which is where this entire experience changed. It just wasn’t what we thought it would be which is fine because no one prepared us for it.
But the waitress insisted that if my mom didn’t like it that she would be back to get her something else. Well, she didn’t return until we were all done. And no one refilled our drinks the entire main course or checked on us. She finally came back and noticed my mom didn’t eat it. She said «oh I can see you didn’t like it. Can I get you something else?». My mom said no not now because we were all finished. So the opportunity was past.
My mom explained that to the waitress but she didn’t have much of a reaction or have much sympathy.
The only reason this was a bigger deal than normal was because it was Mother’s Day. Any other day, no big deal. A bummer, but not a big deal. We made the drive out to Carmel Valley hoping for a good experience and it just didn’t happen.
I don’t think after this experience I would recommend it.

We used to be regulars before it changed hands, then we came back when it first changed and we were disappointed in everything being a la carte but the food remained as delicious as it once was. We took a year off and decided to come back tonight and give it another shot after the remodel and new reviews I read.
Well, the remodel is gorgeous! I love the brighter atmosphere.
I was happy to see that the «a la carte» was changed back to its all inclusive of a potato and veggies.
My review: I feel the service we received was a bit lacking in attentiveness. We arrived at 6:30 and it was not packed yet but we stood there waiting to speak to someone about our reservations for a good 5 – 6 minutes.
Our appetizer was delicious! Our drinks were on point! Our waiter did not mention any specials but we overheard another table having them explained so we asked our waiter.
We used to get a little anti pasta plate back in the day and I noticed on other tables they had them. Maybe you had to purchase them? Also no bread anymore either.
Anyway, my husband ordered the special Porterhouse steak. He asked for medium!
The steak he got was rare! Rate to the point that it was cold. We had to send it back. Upon it coming back, it was done just right.
My steak was great! My twice baked potato was awful. It tasted like it came from the freezer.
Our veggies were amazing!!!
Then we get the bill! I almost fell out of my chair when I read that my husband’s steak was $ 70!!!
Lesson learned on our part! Maybe we should of asked first? Maybe the waiter should have told us the prices? Well, that steak was definitely not worth that price after having to send it back.
$ 70? I’m still in sticker shock.
Well, I guess we will be taking another year off again. My once loved go to place has let me down!

We were able to visit this fabulous restaurant when in Carmel By The Sea. This was right when they re-​opened and our group had a wine tasting outside on the patio. Talk about ambience! The green hills of the countryside and sipping delicious Holman Ranch Pinot Gris. heaven!
After our wine tasting we were led into the dining room where the middle table was set up for our party. The rustic décor and sparkling white lines and sparkling glasses made for a beautiful setting to enjoy dinner. As an appetizer I had the Salt Spring Mussels and Clams and WOW! The mussels were steamed and tender and savory with butter! The clams were tender and when paired with the savory butter sauce and the toasty baguette… delicious!!!
Along with our dinner we enjoyed the Holman Ranch’s (who own the restaurant) Pinot Gris which had a hearty bold rich flavor because I tend to favor white wines over red. This particular wine will not be produced anymore at the winery so that made drinking it more special! The service was exceptional and friendly without being overbearing or interruptive. For the main course I ordered… of course the Rib Eye medium rare! Perfection!!! The Rib Eye was aged perfectly and tender. Sometimes it is hard to order a steak medium rare and have it cooked medium rare and Chef did it perfectly! Moist and tender enough to cut with a fork. This rib eye was a treat with every bite. On the side I had the White Corn with Cilantro and lime. This side dish is AWESOME! The corn is tender and sweet and the lime adds a different flavor that compliments the steak. Yes I had items to take home because of course one must always have dessert! When they brought the crème brûlée to the table… I was in foodie heaven again. Light and creamy yet rich… perfection. If you are planning on celebrating a special dinner or having a group night out this restaurant is perfect.
Plus there is so much history the building was constructed in the 1930’s and was a road house. Then it was renamed The Carousel and still has the dressed up saloon interior. Just like having dinner on the ranch!!!

WHAT A MEAL, We went to Will’s Fargo for a little Dinner Date, made reservations online, was very easy, we arrived and they seated us, the Host was awesome, after a few minutes, they moved us to a better location which was a little less traffic and was awesome. We ordered the calamari/​shrimp appetizer, it was great, we then ordered a wedge salad, the dressing was great, then for our main course, we order the 6 oz. filet mignon & 8 oz. sirloin steak, both were tremendous, of course for desert we ordered the bread pudding, was a great way to end the meal, everything was great, everyone there was super friendly and it was worth every dime.

I’ve eaten here several times before. Several months back they changed owners so we thought we’d give it a go!
Our reservation was for 7:30, we arrived at 7:25 and checked in. The manager greeted us very nicely then stated, please wait a few minutes, it’s not 7:30 yet. Weird, but not too off putting. We figured it was just his way of getting organized. He came back a few minutes later and seated us.
The place was packed and everyone around us seemed to be enjoying themselves so we settled right in. We brought a bottle of wine and the waitress asked if she could uncork it for us and put it in a decanter. Sure, then as we asked about any specials she mentions that fresh catch of the day was salmon. I asked if it was local or Alaskan? She states it is farm raised Atlantic. Fresh catch, farm raised? Hmm, then she precedes to tell us that they are all out of the ribeye steak. I could tell several tables around us were feeling the Bern too as they realized what was happening to them too.
OK. This used to be a steak house. I was coming for the Porter House steak. It is no longer on the menu. The menu has ONLY 3 steaks listed? A house cut at 8oz, Ribeye at 14oz, and Filet at 8oz. AND they are out of of their selection. Did everyone in here just order the Ribeye? Did the manager only order 5 steaks for tonight? I was hankering for a steak and the biggest steak I can get is an 8oz house steak (what ever cut that is) for $ 28 or an 8oz Filet for $ 36. Whack!
AND THEY ARE OUT OF BAKED POTATOES!
We should have walked out but our wine was already poured.
Recap: Avoid this place until they get their steaks in order! Monterey has WAY too many good restaurants to try and enjoy than wasting good money on this newly renovated generality!
Beware!

My wife and I have been wanting to have dinner at Will’s Fargo for quite some time and I’m glad we finally made it in. We both ordered ribeye steaks cooked medium rare and they were cooked to perfection. Our server, Germaine, was very knowledgable and friendly. We loved the ambiance and character of the building, it’s an amazing place to have a great dinner. I will definitely be back again. HIGHLY RECOMMENDED!

This used to be my all time favorite restaurant in Carmel Valley. I am sadly disappointed with the changes since the re-​opening of the restaurant. My husband, son, his wife and I were there last Friday, March 10, 2016. We were so anxious and couldn’t wait to try it once we re-​opened. My husband had the rib eye steak. It was ok but had a lot more fat than usual. The potato and vegetable portions were a lot smaller than what we remember. My son and I had the pasta carbonara. This used to be by far one of my favorite items in the menu. They definitely changed the recipe and the portion size. First of all the size was about ¹⁄₃ of what it used to be. Plus they almost doubled the price. We use to pay $ 15.99 and now its priced at $ 26. I wouldn’t mind it so much if it taste just as good and we weren’t left hungry. All we could taste on the pasta was the onion. You could clearly see that it was drenched in green onions. We were left so hungry that we had to order steak bites. At least we could of got some bread like before but they don’t serve bread anymore. My daughter in law order the special which was good according to her however it was a whopping $ 32. and again the portion size was extremely small. We were hoping that the desert would be a lot better. We have to say the bread pudding didn’t disappoint however the cheese cake recipe has changed and its very dry. We use to drive out there just for the cheese cake sometimes. I have to say that I would not go back.

Will’s Fargo restaurant reopened this week after being closed for renovations. They have a new chef, Greg, and I have to say the food was fabulous. I had their burger and the beef was the most flavorful I have had in years. The bun was not too much bread and it held up well. The fries were to die for! I had a glass of the Holman Ranch Pinot Noir and it was delicious pared with the burger. My server was Kate and she was knowledgable on the wine and dessert and confident in her descriptions. She was excellent. The place was hopping and every customer was smiling on their way out. Michael the Dining room manager was so welcoming to all, calling some by name and he made everyone feel important and welcomed.
I will go back again and try some of the other dishes on their great menu. I also must try their Cobb salad which is made in the traditional Brown Derby style.

Best place to get a steak in ALL of the Monterey/​Carmel area. I’ve been here many times and have never been disappointed with the food or service. Both are consistently excellent. The newly remodeled restaurant looks great and there are also a few new additions to the menu. If you are going to go out and have a steak dinner this is the place you need to come.

We had a blast from the past. We were here soon our Honeymoon 53 years ago and revisited in July of 2015 for our 53^rd anniversary! Awesome service and great «reasonably» prices steaks!

Oh my God! I cannot say enough good things about this place.
From the greeting at the door to our waiter who was adorable and wonderful and attentive without being annoying and loving and was so nice to bring us a taste of the soups… ok, I think you get the picture that the server who I cannot remember her name (blond, sorry!) was fabulous and we would come back just to be in her section!
The food was amazing, like lick your plate clean but you can’t because you’re in a nice restaurant. Delish! a 5 yum place in my opinion.
When we can, we are going back because it was so good, we drool when we think about the place!
Love you guys and keep it up. You all rock in my eyes.

If your looking for home on the range vibe and food, then this is the place for you. Filled with charm by the owners and locals, this place just makes you feel warm. It’s now owned by the Holman Ranch family so if you bring in one of their bottles there’s no corkage fee. They’ve kept all the charm of the place while bringing it up to date for everyone to enjoy.

Went there for a wonderful dinner thanks to my non-​husband, lifetime companion.
Service was delightful, food was delicious, ambiance was just right.

We held our wedding at Holman Ranch in Carmel Valley. The owners of Holman Ranch also own Wills Fargo. We were blown away by their wedding venue Holman Ranch and thought there was no way they would blow us away again. But they did! Wills Fargo is a cozy hangout restaurant that offers steaks and more. I had the filet and my wife had the rib eye. Worth every penny. At the end of the night they provided us with a bread pudding on the house. Sit by the fire for an intimate steak dinner :)

Wonderful surprise during an otherwise not-​so-​memorabel weekend.
Halloween is an odd night to dine out. It’s a little quiet with many at parties and folks doling out candy, but those who found their way to Will’s all seemed to be enjoying themselves.
Our waitress was excellent from the beginning, suggesting we share a meal we’d begun to order; she was spot on.
I’m so glad to have added the garlic bread to an otherwise large order as it was really yummy. The rib eye was really excellent. It’s amazing how seldom I’m served a steak that’s both cooked and seasoned correctly. Add skinny onion rings AND spinach in real cream and you can see why sharing was necessary.
Next time we’re in town, this is a must stop for us!

I had so much fun here! Had a great table outside on the patio. Shared great food and wine with great friends. The ambience is fantastic. Cozy and rustic, very welcoming. The patio has an amazing fire pit and heat lamps to keep you warm. The wait staff was patient and friendly with a rowdy group of gals.

Fantastic place to have great food and a glass of wine with friends. The patio is just such a lovely space to share a meal and the food is delicious. My salmon and veggies was perfect and the chocolate cake for dessert was so yummy. Instead of feeling overly sweet, it left me wanting more. I’ll be back for sure!

A Carmel Valley treasure! When I heard this restaurant was recently taken over by the family that owns Holman Ranch and Winery, then I simply had to try it out. When I was charged with setting up a special banquet night for my company while we were staying in Carmel Valley, I instantly thought of Wills. It has that warm, inviting ambiance that the area is famous for, and yet still feels «special.» Indoors décor is a real treat, with historic elements, a full bar and fun vibe. We opted for the patio, and it was a great choice. We had the bricked area to ourselves, and our table was set up near the fire-​pit. Heat lamps were on hand for those that needed extra warmth, and there were plenty of staff offering to adjust them if needed.
In fact, all of the staff was superb. Willing and «on it,» without being obtrusive. The manager was observing to make sure all went smoothly. I set things up with banquet manager Tara, who was available, and especially accommodating to our many «special requests» for the food.
Speaking of food: Great! There was a nice mix of appetizer types – we chose calamari (which came with 2 dipping sauces-​marinara and tartar-​style), steak bites (super tender!) and a delicious stuffed portobello mushroom. First course we opted for a Caesar, which was the real deal complete with anchovies and egg. Entrees were quite well-​received, and my steak was cooked perfectly. I mean, PERFECTLY. A nice, flavorful char on the outside, and the exact degree of rareness I requested. Tender, and very thick for a sirloin. Sides were tasty, too. Dessert was hard to choose from all the yummy selections, but the truffle cake and crème brûlée most of us ended up with were right on point.
One more element deserves mention: The wine. Some great options were represented, but my favorite is the Holman Pinot. I’d had it before, and so wanted another swing and was glad I did. Some of my co-​workers were happy that cocktails were also available.
With a quintessential Carmel Valley ambiance, terrific service and satisfying meals, small groups and casual diners can’t go wrong at Wills!

If you like beef, this is a throw back restaurant to the days of meat and potatoes. The bar is fascinating, like being on a cattle drive. The restaurant itself is really, really, really dark. Had to use my phone flashlight and the server brought us a lantern too.
Everything is a la carte. Food was good, not great. It is a local hangout and does have a patio.

Best meal of our trip to the central coast!!! OMG, Wow! Simple and delish with the accompaniment of rustic awkwardness. A bit too loud inside and a wee bit on the needs new décor (please get rid of the carpet), but with the solid quality food served to us tonight, who the heck cares. Rib eye perfect. Bourbon roasted lobster spot on and cooked to perfection. I’ve never had better mac and cheese anywhere. Twice baked potato creamy and comforting. To top it off, everyone that helped us was obviously interested in making our visit a great experience and appeared proud to be a part of the team.
Owner went out of his way to speak with us prior to our leaving to make sure we enjoyed our dinner and it met our expectations.
We’ll be back for more!

Was looking for a good local steakhouse and am happy I wound up at Will’s Fargo! The restaurant bills itself as a saloon and upon entering there is very much a western style ambiance about the place. Small but fully stocked bar and plenty of table space inside. Given the excellent weather, I opted for patio seating instead.
Service was prompt, courteous and overall very good. I never lacked for attention, but it also wasn’t overbearing, so excellent in that regard.
Given that it was Thursday, I opted for the 12oz prime rib (bone in) that is featured 2x a week (Thursday being one of the days). Choice of potato (I had twice baked) and veggies. I planned on substituting spinach for the veggies, but was told no substitutions. Happily this worked out as the veggies were green beans and wax beans with fried onion rings (super thin and perfectly cooked). For the vegetable of the day, they were excellent. Potato was good. My prime rib was ordered medium rare and came out perfectly cooked and warm. I also ordered a basket of garlic bread for $ 2 and was told I could have as much as I wanted. The bread was excellent and very garlicky. Prime rib was market price which was $ 27 — very reasonable given the size and perfect leaness on the cut.
I ordered a glass of the Cheseboro Syrah and loved it. $ 10 for a generous pour. About a dozen or so wines available by the glass and a good selection of bottles were available. Specialty cocktails had their own menu and ran $ 12 each (I didn’t order one).
Dessert was the duo of crème brulees. Vanilla bean and coffee. Happily, these were prepared «classically» and not overly fancy. Simple brulee is the best. The brulee were tasty and definitely appropriate for sharing (each was in a 4 – 5 oz ramekin). I found the brulees to be ever so slightly dry, but not so much to cause me to stop eating. Also ordered a cappuccino which came with lumps of raw and white sugar on the side. Cappuccino was a tad light on the steamed milk, but still perfectly acceptable.
My total bill after tax (before gratuity) was a good deal at $ 51.39. What made it a steal however was the Unilocal $ 25 for $ 50 deal that I used. Even my waitress commented on how good a deal it was!
I’ll be back — hope you give them a try
Tip: Recommend taking Hwy 68 to the restaurant if you can — breathtaking views.

Since Holman Ranch took over, this place has moved up to my favorites list. First, the steak is fabulous and I love that you can pick different sides and sauces. Yes, it’s expensive, but it’s steak people. The Cobb salad with ranch is memorable and travels well for pick up.
Then there’s the new happy hour M — Th from 4:30 — 6:30. It’s half off apps, all wines by the glass and well drinks. Pretty sweet.
Finally, they offer brunch now on Sat and Sun all day long. I think until 4. I came for an omelette last weekend and am now completely addicted to the Will’s Omelette w Carmelites onions and jack cheese. Fruit sub for potatoes was wonderful — freshly cut, perfectly ripe with even some fresh cherries. Best fruit sub ever.
Highly recommend the new improved Wills.
Oh, one request. There’s only about 8 bar stools at bat but they are really uncomfortable after about ½ hr. Maybe some more padding or new stools. Some leather ones with backs would be great! Bat could use some varnish as well. I know they are going for the rustic, stage coach thing but raw wood doesn’t clean up and can be germy…

Fantastic service especially from the manager Michael and the bar manager Bill! The food is wonderful — juicy steaks and perfectly prepared sides, plus so many other delicious choices. A special meal every time! I very highly recommend this old-​time Carmel Valley historic landmark restaurant!

We took our friends to Wills Fargo for the first time on Saturday night; there were 5 of us. I had a caprese salad and shrimp skewer. My boyfriend had a steak and twice baked potato. 2 others had pasta with bacon and the birthday girl has the lobster and steak combo. Both people ordered steak, medium. One came out medium and the other was well-​done. He had to send it back but got a better steak after a few minutes.
We ordered 2 plates of escargot which were good, but not in the shell. The prices are pretty steep for the quality and quantity you get. The food was average and the ambiance was country-​like and very loud. We found it difficult to carry on hardly any conversation without yelling. The service was fine and I was able to use my Unilocal deal, so that made me feel better about the experience.

If I could give this place more stars I would! There is something so special about walking through the main entrance, the history, the Victorian ranch décor, the 1920’s stories that happened here… but I’m not here to review the ambiance.
Let’s start with the food. All local, organic ingredients prepared to perfection. Escargots and steak are two things I’m super picky with, and I was extremely impressed — it was delicious.
The wine list is amazing. I don’t need to elaborate on this one, you probably knew of the restaurant’s affiliation with Holman Ranch and came in big part because of the wine.
For dessert, I tried their surprise ingredients coffee drink and it was so good and so strong that I had to enjoy the bonfire for a bit before driving back.

Great american stylish restaurant in beautiful Carmel Valley Village. The food (we had the Angus Beef Top Sirloin and the Surft & Turf Angus Beef Sirloin and Shrimps) was amazing, the patio with the round fireplace super cozy, the service (Katy) fantastic and very attentive! The wine list (lots of local wines from Holman Ranch — who owns the place — and Bernardus) offers a broad variety of great wines. We definitively will come back to this place!

After reading some of the negative reviews on Unilocal I was hesitant about this place but I was wrong to be worried. Six of us plus one two year old had dinner here last evening and we all enjoyed a wonderful experience. We were greeted by a very friendly gentleman who brought us to our table. Our waitperson for the evening greeted us andimmediately brought waters and took our drink orders.
All of our dinners were delicious. I had the braised pork with mushrooms, others had wedge salad, carbonara, crab ravioli, steak, the little one had macaroni and cheese. Everything was delicious, the staff attentive and pleasant. Next time we may sit on one of the outdoor patios and they are lovely and dog friendly.
We had a lovely evening and will go back for sure.

I want to start off by saying that I am a fan of their straightforward menu with the a la carte options.
The calamari appetizer was fantastic– it was expertly breaded (lightly) and fried to perfection. After a few bites I was confident in the restaurant’s skills so I ordered big– a salad, a steak, and already began thinking about dessert.
The wedge salad was decent, although overly dressed. Nothing else to say about it really. Pretty standard.
I rarely eat steak, but ordered a Ribeye (medium rare) since I was so impressed by the appetizer. My steak came out well done, so I asked the waitress for her opinion. She agreed and took it away. A few minutes later she returned with a completely raw steak. Gross. I hesitated to show her, but I had to since I couldn’t stomach it. She again agreed and asked if I would like them to get it back on the grill. I politely abstained and asked for a dessert menu.
As I waited for the dessert menu I carved the raw fat off the steak, which accounted for at least ¼ of the cut, and managed to flag a very helpful waiter assistant to get a to-​go container for the salvageable meat. *Maybe too much info, but I plan on cooking it tomorrow alongside some eggs.
I ordered some crème brûlée and coffee for dessert and was yet again pleased greatly by the taste and quality.
Our waitress didn’t seem to care too much about what went down. I hoped our coffee would be waived at the very least, since it was obvious the steak was a total disaster, but no such luck.
If I ever go back I will stick to appetizers, drinks, and desserts. I strongly recommend to fellow locals, as well as tourists, to steer clear of their steaks.

Awful. The service sucked big time. We were here for a rehearsal dinner, and the service was horrible. A pregnant woman ordered well done, came to the table
Rare. The server couldn’t even fill the water glasses without being told to. Wtf. So very disappointing.
I was told the New owners are a year old. Listen up.

As my 11yo nephew puts it, «this is a real American meal».
Will’s Fargo is a steakhouse, no mistaken about it. Dark wood cabin-​like interiors and huge servings of meat and carbs. Vegetarians are welcome, but that’s not the point.
Each steak is in the $ 30 — $ 60 mark, and the minimum is in the 5 oz range. It comes with garlic bread (delish!), and a soup or salad.
For 3 hungry adults, we split a Kansas City steak, a pork chop and added some sides (soup and veggies). We were stuffed. While the steak was cooked well (exactly medium rare), IMHO the pork chop was better than the steak.
Our server was attentive and we had a great time. Service isn’t fast so take your time and enjoy the experience. On that note, Carmel restaurants are booked out every night, it seems… even when you want to have dinner at 5:30p… so call ahead!