Bringing a taste of international shores to Santa Monica, chef Raphael Lunetta unveils his latest culinary venture, Marelle, housed within the new Sandbourne Hotel. According to LA Eater, the restaurant opened its doors on June 18, inviting diners to savor a melding of Tulum and Santorini within its design and offerings.
The setting, crafted by designer Gulla Jonsdottir, incorporates flowing interiors and natural textures reminiscent of Mexican and Mediterranean locales. Known fixtures in Lunetta's repertoire, such as the Baja shrimp cocktail and lemon-roasted shiitake mushroom rigatoni, remain rooted in California's rich produce and farmer's market selections. Yet, the 24-ounce ribeye and mezcal chile honey-glazed chicken wings also find space on Marelle's menu, catering to a broad range of palates.
Despite its status as a hotel restaurant, where complex cuisine may not be the norm, brunch offerings at Marelle promise to draw crowds. As per LA Eater, items such as the jumbo lump crab cake with green goddess aioli, and the crispy chicken sandwich, indicate that the daytime menu will be a key attraction for both locals and tourists.
Beverages feature prominently in Marelle's resort-style experience. Beverage director Amanda Fewster has assembled a cocktail list with an oceanic twist including local, women- and BIPOC-owned spirits brands, "A stirred Oaxacan Bianco mixes La Tierra de Acre mezcal, Carpano Bianco, and amaro Angelino" while a "Thai Tiki blends pineapple rum, banana liqueur, Thai tea, and nutmeg for something more refreshing," as detailed by LA Eater.
The dining experience extends outdoors to a 72-seat patio that exhibits beach vistas, enhancing the overall ambiance. Marelle, located at 1740 Ocean Avenue in Santa Monica, ensures convenience with validated valet parking and beckons visitors daily from 7 a.m. to 11 p.m,. Reservations for the touted newcomer can be made through their website, offering a fresh gastronomic chapter for Ocean Avenue's bustling scene.
