About us
For more than four decades, we have been a part of Carmel-by-the-Sea’s dining tradition. Since opening our doors in 1980, Anton & Michel has been a place where thoughtful service, exceptional cuisine, and a sense of occasion come together in a way that feels both refined and familiar.
Tucked within the Court of the Fountains, our space is designed for slowing down. The glow of the dining room, the sound of water, and the comfort of a well-set table create an atmosphere where celebrations unfold and conversations linger.
Our menu is rooted in classic European technique and shaped by the seasonality of California. We honor tradition while allowing room to evolve, bringing new life to what has always made this experience special.
We remain grounded in where we began, while continuing to grow into what comes next. Anton & Michel is, and always will be, a place to return to.
Meet the team
Anton "Tony" Salameh
Founding owner
Anton “Tony” Salameh was born in 1951 in the Philippines, raised in Jerusalem, and later graduated from the École hôtelière de Lausanne in Switzerland. He began his nearly 50-year career in hospitality with Atlas Hotels at the Town and Country Resort, before joining the Carmel scene as Manager of Quail Lodge & Golf Club. From 1975 to 1977, he worked with Jordan International Hotels, then returned to Quail Lodge as Food & Beverage Director.
In 1980, Tony became the owner of Anton & Michel Restaurant in Carmel, establishing what would become a local institution. Over the years, he expanded his footprint by opening The Grill on Ocean Avenue in 1994 (sold in 2018), as well as Porta Bella and Merlot Bistro in 1996 (sold in 2015).
At the end of 2020, Tony sold Anton & Michel to Loie Alnimri, passing the torch after four decades of ownership. While no longer at the helm, he remains a constant presence—stopping in for his cappuccino, checking in, and continuing to be part of the restaurant’s daily rhythm. He is, and always will be, family.
Loie & Sarah Alnimri
co-owners
In 2020, ownership transferred to Loie Alnimri, marking a new chapter for the restaurant. He took over with a strong respect for its history and a commitment to preserving what made it successful, while guiding it forward.
Prior to entering hospitality, Loie worked as a dentist before deciding to join his family’s restaurant business. He began in entry-level roles and worked his way through every position, developing a comprehensive understanding of operations, service, and management before becoming owner.
Sarah developed an early interest in the restaurant industry, beginning work at age 16. She later studied tourism and hospitality management at Temple University, with the goal of owning and operating a restaurant. Her senior internship brought her to Carmel-by-the-Sea, where she chose to stay, continuing to manage restaurants and build experience within the local dining community.
Loie and Sarah met in 2022 while working in the same industry. What began simply grew into a strong and steady partnership, both personally and professionally. They share a similar approach to hospitality, a long-term vision for their work, and a commitment to building something meaningful together.
He is originally from Jordan, and she is from New Jersey. Both are now based in Carmel-by-the-Sea, where they continue to operate and grow their presence within the restaurant community.
They were married on July 25, 2024, and held their reception at Anton & Michel — a full-circle moment in the same space where much of their journey has taken place. Together, they look forward to continuing to build and create in the years ahead.
Zaid (zee) Alnimri
co-owner
My name is Zaid Alnimri (Zee), and I’m 31 years old. I was born and raised in Jordan and have called the Carmel-by-the-Sea area home for the past five years. I earned my Bachelor’s degree in Banking and Finance, but my passion for hospitality led me down a different path.
I first came to the United States in 2016 to visit family and spent time with my cousins, who owned restaurants in Carmel-by-the-Sea. Watching how they worked, welcomed guests, and built meaningful connections with the community inspired me deeply. After returning to Jordan, I enrolled at the Royal Academy of Culinary Arts, one of the country’s top culinary schools, to formally study the craft.
In 2020, I returned to the U.S. to begin my career in hospitality. My journey started at my cousin’s restaurant, The Treehouse Café, where I spent four and a half years learning every aspect of the business and building lasting relationships with guests. Later, I was blessed with an opportunity to join the Anton & Michel family. My cousin Loie offered me the chance to become his partner — a milestone I’m truly grateful for. Today, I’m proud to co-own Anton & Michel, a beautiful restaurant with a 46-year legacy in the heart of Carmel-by-the-Sea.
One of my favorite dishes on our menu is the rack of lamb, a classic that reflects both tradition and quality. Outside the restaurant, I enjoy horseback riding and hope to own my own horse someday. Some of my fondest memories at Anton & Michel are the quiet mornings spent having coffee with my cousins on the beach — moments of connection that remind me why family means so much to me.
I believe family is the most important thing in life, and I’m endlessly thankful to everyone in my family who has supported me and continues to stand by my side. Their love and encouragement have shaped my journey, and I carry that gratitude with me every day as I welcome guests into our restaurant.
Christopher Plascencia
general manager
My name is Christopher Plascencia, and I’m the Manager here at Anton and Michel.
I came from Mexico in 2013 from a very small village in the heart of the country. I started working for the Alnimri family when I was 16 years old as a busboy. Throughout the years, I’ve learned and excelled in the hospitality industry, from working as a busboy, server, and now a manager.
I’ve always been a competitor and a team player in everything I do. One of the things I love most about my Team here at Anton and Michel is that we all work together as a family.
our 2026 renovation
Anton & Michel is entering a new chapter.
Our recent renovation, led by designer Charles Gruwell, was approached with care and intention, preserving the charm and intimacy that have defined the space for decades while thoughtfully elevating it through refined materials, warmth, and subtle modern touches.
The goal was never to reinvent, but to enhance. To honor the original character of Anton & Michel while bringing a renewed sense of comfort, flow, and atmosphere to the experience.
The result is a space that feels both timeless and refreshed. Familiar, yet reimagined.
As with our sister restaurant, Nora’s, the design reflects a balance of classical elegance and contemporary ease, creating an environment that invites guests to settle in, linger, and return.
awards & Recognition
Over the years, Anton & Michel has been honored for its dedication to exceptional dining and hospitality.
OpenTable Diners’ Choice Award
Recognized for an outstanding wine program, featuring an extensive and thoughtfully curated selection
Consistently rated as one of Carmel-by-the-Sea’s premier dining destinations
These recognitions reflect what matters most to us: the experience of our guests.