Marelle, the flagship dining establishment nestled within the Sandbourne Hotel in Santa Monica, encapsulates a dreamy blend of California’s coastal allure with a laid-back Mediterranean vibe. The name translates to “star of the sea,” a charming reference to its oceanfront locale. Here, the easygoing ambiance of the coast merges seamlessly with an air of sophisticated elegance, ensuring a warm welcome for all—whether adorned in elegant attire or casually strolling in from the beach in flip-flops.
The atmosphere and interior design of the restaurant are precisely what newcomers to Southern California envision. Located merely steps from the shoreline, it exudes that relaxed Santa Monica spirit—upscale yet decidedly unpretentious. The al fresco patio boasts views of the hotel’s pool and the expansive beach. Inside, the decor features an effortless style highlighted by woven materials, earthy linens, and gentle lighting from clay pendant lamps crafted in Oaxaca. Designer Gulla Jónsdóttir has successfully created an environment that feels both grounded and a touch ethereal.
At the helm of the kitchen is Chef Raphael Lunetta, a well-known figure in Santa Monica who prioritizes sourcing ingredients from the nearby farmers market. His culinary creations are influenced by his extensive travels and a dedication to freshness. The menu reflects a local and seasonal ethos, embodying the essence of California cuisine—colorful, fresh, and bursting with flavors.
No meal would be complete without a cocktail to begin. A standout option is The Hive of Paradise, featuring honey from the hotel’s own apiaries. This delightful blend of bourbon, lemon, and a house-made mango thyme honey is garnished with a fresh thyme sprig. Another delectable choice is the Honey Bee, combining mezcal, yuzu liqueur, and a hint of lavender. On sunny days, the La Vie en Rosé, made with tequila, mommenpop lime, aperol, guava, and bubbly served with rose-tinted sunglasses, is a festive choice. (Yes, really.)
Our group kicked off the meal with an array of Shared Plates, the vibrant hues of which painted the table like an artist’s palette: Whipped Feta paired with blistered tomatoes and cured black olives; Cannellini White Bean Hummus with an abundance of market-fresh crudité and grilled pita; Melons and Burrata with Prosciutto di Parma; and Ahi Tuna Tartare dressed with crispy garlic shallot topping, citrus soy, and served with grilled sourdough. Fully satisfied in both appetite and visual delight, we felt tempted to pause, yet the call of the Signature Dishes was irresistible. We shared a juicy New York Prime Strip Steak accompanied by blistered shishito peppers, and Pan Roasted Chicken paired with a charred plum condiment and white wine chicken jus, complemented by inventive sides like the Loaded Baked Potato featuring house-made cheese whiz (delicious) and zesty sautéed broccolini with Fresno chili and Meyer lemon.
Though Marelle is a newcomer to the Santa Monica dining scene, it already feels like an integral part of the area. Cherished by both locals and tourists, it transcends the typical hotel restaurant label; it has established itself as a sought-after destination with a distinct ambiance all its own. The atmosphere is especially lively on Friday and Saturday nights, and during weekend brunch, where a sultry soundtrack provided by a DJ enhances the experience. With its breezy California-meets-Mediterranean decor, locally-sourced menu, and impressive tunes, it’s the kind of place that encourages lingering; ideal for a brunch that seamlessly transitions into the mesmerizing golden hour.
Image Source: marelle.com
