Latest news with #CarmelByTheSea
Daily Mail
9 hours ago
- Entertainment
- Daily Mail
America's tiny golden city to lose iconic bar serving 'millionaires' club' as owner in landlord dispute
Carmel-by-the-Sea, famed for its oceanfront beauty, luxury boutiques and sky-high real estate, is on the verge of losing one of its most beloved institutions: a 400-square-foot dive bar. Just one square mile in size, this Californian enclave is as famous for its quirks as its celebrity pedigree and is known for its storybook architecture, artistic heritage, and lack of street addresses, streetlights, and chain restaurants. Clint Eastwood once served as mayor, Doris Day retired here, and the town still enforces a 1963 ordinance banning high heels without a permit to prevent tripping on its uneven sidewalks. Nicknamed the 'Texan Riviera' due to its popularity with wealthy families from the Lone Star State, it draws vacationing billionaires, former presidents, and Hollywood stars - yet still clings to a handful of unpretentious local haunts. However one of its most famous may soon vanish due to a landlord dispute. Sade's, founded in 1926 and affectionately nicknamed the 'Millionaires' Club' by its owner for the well-heeled regulars who mingle there, is set to close on January 31, 2026, after nearly a century of serving locals, tourists and celebrities alike. The bar is wedged into a tiny storefront just off Ocean Avenue, marked only by a weathered sign and a Dutch door that swings open to a wall of noise. Inside, the worn horseshoe bar dominates the room, every stool claimed early in the night. The walls are crammed with decades of trinkets and photos left behind by drinkers who came, stayed and returned. Behind the counter, bottles sit under a 'cash only' sign – a nod to the fact that Sade's does things the old way, and it works. Despite its size, Sade's has always played larger than life. Crowds routinely spill into the street after 9pm, some waiting to get in, others ducking out for a cigarette or continuing conversations in the coastal night air. It is Carmel's oldest dive bar – a no-frills counterweight to the town's luxury veneer. Owner Parker Logan told Daily Mail: 'It is the town watering hole. Even the most distinguished people staying at the fanciest hotels seek it out. 'There's enough lavish and luxury around town – they can't believe there's a place like this here. People who discover it will spend every night of their trip here.' Logan, a fourth-generation Carmelite, first walked into Sade's at 21 and vowed to buy it one day. In 2011, he struck a cocktail-napkin deal with then-owner Frank Grupe for first rights to purchase if the bar ever went up for sale. He took over in 2018, securing one of only three stand-alone bar liquor licenses in Carmel – a type 48 license that doesn't require food service and hasn't been issued by the state in over a decade. The 400-square-foot watering hole draws shoulder-to-shoulder crowds most nights, with patrons spilling into the street after 9pm While the bar is profitable and culturally entrenched, Logan says his landlords – who purchased the building for $8 million in 2018 – have refused to negotiate a long-term lease. Instead, he claims, they plan to replace Sade's with a 'high-end cocktail lounge' run by another tenant. 'They told me they think they can do a better job for the community,' Logan said. 'They're completely, utterly out of touch. They don't live here. People gasp when they get their tabs at my bar – it's affordable. It's a place for down-to-earth people to come, and that's what they want to erase.' 'This is not a place for Jäger bombs or green tea shots,' he added. 'We make simple drinks for complicated people.' Community backlash has been swift. Locals have flooded Facebook, Nextdoor and Logan's own Instagram with outrage, pledging support and decrying what they see as a push to swap authenticity for curated luxury. Even though Sade's is packed most nights, Logan says that won't be enough to cover the legal bills, relocation expenses and licensing costs he now faces. 'I'm not just losing my lease,' he said. 'I'm actually losing my bar. It has to stay in the location and I'll have to rebuild a new one – and there'll be legal fees and licensing fees and downtime that will not only affect me but my employees, one who has worked with me for 15 years.' To help offset those costs, Logan has launched a GoFundMe to support the fight to keep Sade's alive and cover the expense of relocating if it comes to that. His landlords, however, say the situation is more complex. Maria Martinez told Daily Mail that they had been open to renewing the lease until Logan began 'calling every newspaper that he could get and creating a lot of noise'. 'At that point in time, we stopped negotiating with him,' she said, noting that while Logan has always paid on time, the relationship became strained. 'We helped him during the pandemic and didn't charge rent for months. But eventually, he started telling us we were charging too much and suggested we do market research. That's when we began talking to others.' Martinez also pushed back on Logan's financial claims, adding, 'It's a cash bar, so we have no way to even know what he makes or doesn't make. We can't challenge him - we just have to take his word for it.' She also said they've had serious interest in the space from other tenants for years and are now in advanced discussions, although no deal has been finalized. 'We love Carmel. Our commitment is to the community,' she added. 'We don't consider it just a business. We're still listening to feedback and trying to decide what's best for the town.' One possibility Logan is exploring is moving into the space occupied by Barmel, another longtime Carmel bar now in its own landlord dispute. Barmel, owned by restaurateur Gabe Georis, sits a block south on San Carlos Street in the Carmel Square complex and is attached to the Barmel Supper Club. Georis – whose family has deep roots in Carmel dining, including the beloved La Bicyclette – took over the bar space in 2013 after operating a Spanish restaurant next door. Georis told Daily Mail he was in a battle with his landlord. 'I got a very friendly email right before Christmas, stating that she was working on a new lease, and then in January, she sent me an email letting me know she no longer wanted me as a tenant. 'This was a total surprise. I agreed to work on an exit strategy that involved selling the bar. 'I listed the bar and found a buyer and was in escrow and then the landlord refused to talk to the new prospective buyer, putting an end to my sale. 'At the same time, she started sending me notices of default to try and force me out, however, these notices were based on activities we had been carrying on with her knowledge for over 10 years. 'One example is telling me that bar customers are not allowed to use the communal bathrooms, something that is clearly spelled out in my lease… So this was an about turn and seems to be a desperate grab at finding a reason to get me out. 'I have received a lot of support from the local community. Phone calls, emails, texts, and offers of support. Barmel has become synonymous with Carmel nightlife, a concept that was more of a joke than a reality at the time we opened. 'At this point, an ideal resolution would be allowing me to sell my business and move on to other projects in spaces where I'm wanted. 'I still am part owner and operate La Bicyclette restaurant in Carmel and I will focus my efforts there in the short term.' Donald Drummond, a San Rafael attorney who is representing Carmel Square Owner Johanna White and trustees who own Carmel Square, told Monterey County Now that lease violations were the reason for the notice to vacate. He says the last prospective buyer for Barmel did not provide the necessary information to do so. Drummond says violations included breaking city ordinances, such as 'keeping the business open past closure time, keeping more people in the premises than what was permitted by the city'. He said that the City of Carmel has now served a notice of violation to Georis warning him that if he didn't change his business practices he could have his use permit and/or business license revoked. The bar's use permit would most likely remain with the location, which is partly why Logan has considered it as a potential new home for Sade's. Georis confirmed that they have discussed the idea but declined to elaborate further. Logan admits there are 'a lot of unknown variables' and no guarantee the deal could happen. 'I've been here 30 years. It's been my favorite bar since the day I walked in,' Logan said. 'If Sade's closes for good, it would be heartbreaking – sadder than losing your dog. And it would be a real blow to the community.'
Daily Mail
3 days ago
- Daily Mail
Fairytale coastal hideaway adored by Hollywood plunged into crisis as billionaire suddenly pulls the plug: 'We'll go broke'
Patrice Pastor fell in love with Carmel-by-the-Sea as a child when he visited from his native Monaco. The quaint coastal hideaway has a village feel, with narrow streets, courtyards and cottages - and very few traffic lights and sidewalks.
Daily Mail
05-07-2025
- Business
- Daily Mail
America's dreamy paradise becomes a nightmare so dangerous that longtime locals are selling up after decades
Once a postcard-perfect escape, California 's Big Sur is now facing a harsh new reality... impassable roads, sky-high fire risk, and vanishing access to basic services. Now, even its most devoted residents are packing up and leaving — some after more than 40 years. Among the recent sellers are Brigga Mosca, 70, and Reed Cripe, 82, who bought five acres of land overlooking the ocean for $70,000 in 1983. They built their dream home but have now decided to put it on the market for $3 million. 'It's harder for us to be here,' Mosca told the Wall Street Journal about the lack of road access and distance from basic amenities including a hospital. Big Sur's natural beauty is married to its remoteness, with only one two lane highway allowing access to Carmel-by-the-Sea to the north and the small towns outside Santa Barbara to it south. But parts of Highway 1 have been subject to natural disasters and crumbling infrastructure since it opened in 1937. For some of the area's 1,500 full-time residents the most recent disruptions — which began in February last year — have been a tipping point. A seven-mile stretch of the road near the community of Lucia was closed in February 2024 and isn't expected to open until the end of the summer. A large land slide near Rocky Creek Bridge in March last year also saw closures to through traffic and residents were only able to leave on designated convoys twice a day. Further to this many residents were alarmed by Cal Fire's recent upgrade of the area's wildfire risk to 'Very High Fire Hazard Severity Zone.' Like other areas of the Golden State, accessing adequate insurance for properties in Big Sur is becoming increasingly difficult. Big Sur has just shy of 900 properties and most sell for $3 million or more. There are 15 properties currently active on the market ranging in price from $1.8 million to $100 million. Realtor Hillary Lipman, owner of Big Sur Coast Properties, told that issues with the highway and wildfires are certainly a driving factor for the amount of inventory on the market at the moment. 'We've had lots off difficulties with the highway being closed and fires,' Lipman, who has lived in the area for 40 years, explained. 'Most business people are frustrated nothing can be done because of excessive regulations particularly when it comes to the coastal commission. 'They're not allowed to push the dirt into the ocean to get the highway open again [after a slide] it has to be trucked away, which could be more polluting.' Lipman also owns the only gas station on the Big Sur stretch of the Highway and the constant closures have hit business. Lipman said there is also a generational shift occurring, where older residents who have lived in the area for decades are looking to move closer to a city or town in order to be nearer family and medical facilities. Around 70 percent of the 15 homes currently listed or sold in the last year have been 'legacy properties' that haven't been on the market in decades. Other older residents are moving on after the death of a spouse. Merle Mullin's 43-acre oceanfront compound Bien Sur is currently on the market for $21.5 million. Mullin lived in the property with her husband, the insurance tycoon Peter Mullin, until his death in 2023. Residents were only able to leave on designated convoys twice a day during the closure 'What would I do by myself? It's so isolated,' she told the Journal. Lipman said there is a lot of inventory available at the moment and the market seems 'soft' but is confident it will pick back up. 'There are always people looking to buy in this magical area, and if you can't sell you still have a lovely property in Big Sur.'
Forbes
27-05-2025
- Business
- Forbes
Best Hotels In Carmel-By-The-Sea 2025
The best hotels in Carmel-by-the-Sea put the spotlight on this exclusive zip code, comprised of quaint cottages and picturesque white sand beaches. 'It's known as the town with no addresses, sitting amidst some of California's most beautiful scenery,' says Nicole Campoy Jackson, a travel advisor at Fora. Visitors can enjoy 'bluff-top walking trails overlooking the sea by morning, and then the most darling cheese shop you've ever seen in the afternoon.' If you're keen on exploring this charming village, our top recommendation is The Hotel Carmel thanks to its excellent location. We also recommend L'Auberge Carmel for luxury lovers, La Playa Hotel for quick access to tranquil beaches and Villa Mara Carmel for a romantic getaway. Ahead, the best hotels in Carmel-by-the-Sea in 2025. Hotel Carmel guest room with fireplace. Conveniently located a stone's throw away from the charming shops and restaurants of Carmel-by-the-Sea, this property is an idyllic location for soaking in all the area has to offer. It was recently redesigned, so the modern beach house décor feels fresh and new while still retaining the cozy, old-school charm it was known for. There are 30 guest rooms and suites (14 have fireplaces) with bright and airy interiors, jute chairs and ultra-plush platform beds topped with silky linens. The hotel offers a 'Champagne continental breakfast' daily from 8 a.m. through 10:30 a.m. so travelers can enjoy seasonal fruits, fresh-baked pastries, yogurt with granola and other light bites. When the sun goes down, the courtyard fire pit is ideal for enjoying an after-dinner digestif or glass of wine while watching the sunset. The fairytale facade of L'Auberge Carmel. This historic hotel, built in 1929, feels distinctly European with its white stucco façade, green shutters and elegant planter boxes. All 20 guest rooms will make travelers feel like a king or queen with their four-poster beds, plush carpeting, antique furniture, and spacious bathrooms with a separate walk-in shower and heated floors. No two rooms are the same, which makes the experience all the more exciting. Chef Justin Cogley's tasting menus at the award-winning restaurant, Aubergine, use fresh, seasonal ingredients, and desserts are prepared by pastry chef Yulanda Santos. A dinner reservation here is not to be missed. La Playa Suite at La Playa Carmel. Located just steps away from the famed white sands of Carmel Beach, this unique property, built in 1905, underwent a $20 million renovation in 2023 to transform its interiors and offer travelers modern luxuries in a historic setting. The 75 guest rooms all have breathtaking views—whether you're overlooking the ocean, garden or estate—and feature Le Labo toiletries, Kassatex robes, custom climate control and Verve coffee. In the morning, don't skip the Champagne breakfast served in the library and on the lush terrace—it's the perfect opportunity to breathe in the sea air and unwind before starting your day. Rich with history and storybook charm, the Cypress Inn is one of Carmel's most singular stays. Previously owned by renowned actress Doris Day, the Cypress Inn has been a Carmel mainstay since it opened in 1929. The architecture and décor have a Mediterranean flair, complete with terracotta floors, rounded archways and warm, earthy colors throughout the rooms and main spaces. All the rooms and suites are spacious, providing travelers with plush robes, filtered water, Gilchrist & Soames toiletries, and, of course, blankets and amenities for pets. The extended continental breakfast and a cold glass of wine at adjoining Terry's restaurant and lounge are noteworthy benefits guests should take advantage of during their stay. Day, who passed away in 2019, was an animal rights activist, so naturally, the property welcomes dogs of all shapes and sizes. Villa Mara Carmel interior. This adults-only boutique hotel is nestled between a section of private homes and will make guests feel as though they're staying at a friend's private residence. Each of the 16 rooms is named after a different landmark, historical figure or geographical location and is decorated in sophisticated shades of blue and cream. Couples seeking seclusion should book the standalone Jeffers Cottage, which has a private yard with a fire pit plus a separate living area to sprawl out. Every room offers contemporary bathrooms with heated floors and Le Labo toiletries. Although there's no on-site restaurant, Jesena's Bar serves breakfast pastries and quiches from a local patisserie in the morning and transitions to a full bar serving beer, wine and cocktails in the evening. Carmel Valley Ranch. The sprawling 500-acre property where the Carmel Valley Ranch sits is an ideal spot if you're looking for an adventure-filled stay for the whole family. The hotel's kid-friendly activities calendar offers everything from tours of the two-acre organic garden and orchard to rounds of golf (or lessons to improve your skills with a one-to-four day program), beekeeping tutorials and miles of bike paths that the whole family can enjoy. Every room is a suite, all of which feature a spacious outdoor deck, and the many amenities include cozy robes, bedroom fireplaces and a mini fridge. The property's 'Munchkin Menu' even has strollers and other necessities on hand should parents need them. The Forbes Vetted travel team has researched, written and published dozens of hotel guides featuring cities across the globe. We selected the top contenders based on personal experience and extensive research. I am a commerce editor for Forbes Vetted covering topics in beauty, fashion, travel and home. Prior to joining Forbes, I held positions at BuzzFeed and Dotdash Meredith, where I was responsible for curating lifestyle content and testing products for real-world insights. My work has appeared in Women's Health, Men's Health, BuzzFeed, Brit + Co, Everyday Health and more. I hold a Bachelor's Degree in English/Creative Writing from Marist College and currently reside in Brooklyn, New York.
Associated Press
21-05-2025
- Business
- Associated Press
Innovative Payment Solutions Announces Settlement of Legal Dispute, Elimination of Toxic Debt, and Strategic Refocus on Core Business
CARMEL BY THE SEA, CA / ACCESS Newswire / May 21, 2025 / Innovative Payment Solutions, Inc. (OTCQB:IPSI) ('IPSI' or the 'Company'), a leading provider of digital payment solutions, today announced several major corporate developments aimed at strengthening its financial position and renewing focus on its foundational mission. The Company has successfully settled a significant legal dispute, reducing its overall liability exposure and eliminating a potential overhang for its shareholders. This resolution is a key step in clearing the path for long-term strategic execution. In addition, IPSI has completely settled all outstanding toxic convertible debt, which historically diluted shareholder value. With these legacy obligations now behind us, the Company is positioned for sustainable, focused growth without the burden of high-risk financing structures. As part of its renewed strategy, IPSI is returning to its core mission: providing modernized, efficient payment solutions for cross-border transactions-starting with an enhanced application tailored specifically to meet current market demands in Mexico. The Company sees tremendous opportunity in solving real-world remittance and digital banking challenges in the Mexico corridor, where millions of users remain underserved. An upcoming shareholder letter from CEO William Corbett will provide a comprehensive update and outline an exciting roadmap for the months ahead, including product developments, partnership strategies, and market expansion. The Company has also filed its latest quarterly report and is committed to maintaining full compliance with all reporting requirements. Additionally, IPSI has paid OTC Markets to maintain its position on the OTCQB Venture Market, affirming its commitment to transparency and investor confidence. 'These critical steps reflect our dedication to restoring IPSI's value and returning to our roots,' said William Corbett, Chairman and CEO of IPSI. 'With a cleaner balance sheet, a focused mission, and a strong development pipeline, we are better positioned than ever to execute on our vision and serve our customers in meaningful ways.' For further updates, please visit About Innovative Payment Solutions, Inc. Innovative Payment Solutions, Inc. (OTCQB: IPSI) is a FinTech company focused on delivering cutting-edge digital payment solutions that meet the needs of unbanked and underserved communities. Its IPSIPay® App facilitates fast, secure, and affordable cross-border transactions and banking services. The Company is also a joint venture partner in IPSIPay Express, which targets the gaming and entertainment industries with real-time merchant payment processing technologies. Media and Investor Inquiries Email: [email protected] Cautionary Note Regarding Forward-Looking Statements This press release contains 'forward-looking statements' within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Forward-looking statements are subject to numerous conditions, many of which are beyond the control of Innovative Payment Solutions, Inc. These statements include, but are not limited to, statements regarding our anticipated future performance, including future revenues, earnings, strategies, and operations. All statements, other than statements of historical fact, included herein are forward-looking statements. Actual results may differ materially from those anticipated in such forward-looking statements due to various factors including: our ability to continue as a going concern, our ability to raise additional financing, the success of our business development efforts, the timing of the introduction and success of our products and services, general economic conditions, and other risks and uncertainties described in our filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission. Forward-looking statements speak only as of the date made, and we undertake no obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statements to reflect events or circumstances after the date of this release, except as required by applicable law. SOURCE: Innovative Payment Solutions, Inc. press release
