Fall 2025

C A R M E L M A G A Z I N E • F A L L 2 0 2 5 169 A generation of Carmelites and visitors dined and partied at the Hog’s Breath. Now, it’s primed to serve future generations. The original owner’s image is all over the property, making it an homage to Carmel’s most famous citizen. “We’re building on a world-renowned brand. People still come here looking for Mr. E. I’m told one of the top three questions at the Carmel Visitor’s Center is ‘where is the Hog’s Breath? ’ ” The menu will retain some favorites, such as the “Dirty Harry” burger, fish and chips, pastas, steaks, chops and the clam chowder (“People say it’s the best they have had and that we should bottle it,” Morcus says.) “Our focus is ‘hyper local.’ Our seafood offer- ings are sourced in compliance with the Monterey Bay Aquarium’s Seafood Watch pro- gram and our meats are small ranch, single- source, antibiotic and hormone free.” And the menu will take full advantage of sustainably grown produce and the seasonal bounty of the sea, including such favorites as calamari, Petrale sole and sand dabs. There will be additional burgers and a superb Morcus family chili con carne recipe. “This area has an amazingly vibrant beer and wine community that produces world-class products, and they are our focus,” the owner says. And as for the cocktail program? “One of our signature hand-crafted cocktails is an old fashioned made with Medjool dates and only the finest premium ingredients and top-shelf liquor.” Morcus says the bar’s fresh lime margari- ta is also superb. Morcus’ overriding vision for the new Hog’s Breath Inn is to take the very best of the spirit of the place that Mr. E created, preserve it, restore it and revitalize it so we link the past. “There has been a lot of buzz around town since we started the remodel. We must pre- serve and enhance the legacy and spirit of the restaurant’s place in the legacy of Carmel— bringing it into the present and ensuring that it lives well into the future.” By all appearances, it seems as though Mr. E would approve of Lee Morcus’ stewardship of his onetime favorite hangout. The Hog’s Breath Inn is located on San Carlos between Fifth and Sixth in downtown Carmel. For more information, visit www.hogsbreathinn.net or call 831/625-1044.