THIS RESTAURANT IS CLOSED CAST

THIS RESTAURANT IS CLOSED CAST Restaurant Review:

Reflecting the laidback-chic style of Santa Monica --- think cool, neutral tones; natural textures; geometric patterns, tiles and lots of white --- CAST Restaurant offers a sleek yet welcoming environment for hotel guests and locals alike. Executive chef Larry Monaco (who has worked in kitchens around the country including Gramercy Tavern in New York) has revamped the breakfast, lunch and dinner menus to deliver elegantly simple, globally-minded dishes. Passionately focused on local, sustainable and in-season ingredients, chef Monaco applies his skills to everything from creative seasonal starters such as jerk chicken meatball yakitori and cured lamb "bacon" wraps to beach-inspired classics like the Santa Barbara white fish. Meat lovers should not miss My Grandma's Bolognese, chef Monaco's decadent homage to his nonna featuring tagliatelle, sausage, short rib, ham hock, veal bone marrow and Parmigiano-Reggiano. But those with dietary restrictions (vegans and gluten-free eaters, we're talking to you), don't worry. There are many options, including a seared tofu steak topped with ribbons of carrots and sautéed seasonal vegetables. In lesser hands such a dish wouldn't excite the mind or the senses, but chef Monaco wields his prowess for spice and texture to make something so simple taste so good. The same could be said for sides such as the Swiss chard and acorn squash, all beautifully presented with edible flowers. Any of the house-made desserts complete the experience, along with a cocktail or two. Grab a seat outdoors on the patio (the cabanas are great for larger groups) and enjoy the SoCal weather along with a view of the pool and you'll feel like you're on vacation even if you're not staying at the hotel.