Luxury accommodations by the beach are few and far between in the Venice Beach area of Los Angeles. On the westside of the city, the tourists and local flow of people makes for a stimulating scene. Just south in Marina Del Rey, the Ritz Carlton stands tall above the sprawling marina. Rooms, suites, Club Lounge for those pulling out all the stops, this hotel is full of flavor. That includes breakfast in the newly renovated Cast & Plow.
Looking out on the marina, breakfast downstairs caters to the carnivore and vegetarian equally, a must in Los Angeles. Community made, locally sustainable cuisine reads across the menu. With the marina in clear view from the lush booth seating and the stylish loungeroom alike, Cast & Plow serves up mimosas and a rejuvenating Bloody Mary bar.
The Tomato Bruschetta began things off nicely. The eggs runny, the toast crisp, created a welcoming entrance. A mix of sweet and savory followed. The Benedict was created with delicate hands and attention to detail. The waffles and French Toast each carried fresh fruit flavors and textures that stood the test of jams. A side of the Peppered Maple Syrup Bacon complimented the locally consistent cuisine.
Each room in the hotel boasts a balcony with views of either the marina or the ocean. Thus, it is a daily option of either a sunrise or sunset. The pool itself sits a short distance from docked vessels. And as is required by such hotel pedigree, a full service spa offers guests an array of services, including a Citrus Drench body treatment that leaves you fresh and feeling clean.