Casa 425 Lounge & Bar

Casa 425 Lounge & Bar Restaurant Review:

Spilling into the tiny lobby of Claremont Village’s trendiest boutique hotel is this laid back bar and lounge, dominated by a sleek Carrara marble bar. Bartenders specialize in custom margaritas and martinis, such as the "berry spicy" margarita, made with house-infused jalapeño and cucumber tequila, berries from the local farmers market, agave and fresh lime juice. The mod furniture is also scattered around a shady courtyard, where one can sip a cocktail or handcrafted ale beside a fire pit --- and eat well, too. A menu of tapas makes nibbling easy while enjoying a libation. From the cold section, there is ahi ceviche with mango and scallions, as well as a traditional charcuterie and cheese plate. From the hot selections, diners can indulge in American Kobe-style sliders on warm brioche buns, margherita pizza, and Cajun-spiced calamari. Chocolate molten cake is the star dessert. Daily happy hour offers good discounts on appetizers and cocktails.