Marelle, by Culinary Director Raphael Lunetta, is now open on Ocean Ave, just steps from the beach. Drawing from his 35 years of culinary experience and inspirations from classic Coastal California cuisine, his travels from around the world, and the richness of farm-fresh local ingredients. As the visionary behind Santa Monica institutions JiRaffe and Lunetta Restaurant—Marelle marks a new chapter in his career.
Marelle, which means “Star of the Sea,” offers more than just seafood; the menu celebrates the bounty of ingredients from land and sea, seamlessly blended with bright flavors. Signature dishes on the current summer menu include: hamachi crudo made with jalapeño kefir lime ponzu; local Farmers Market fruit cocktail; duck confit with fresh cherries and almonds; Jidori chicken over stone-ground polenta with roasted peppers, summer peaches, and shishito peppers; plus, an ever-changing fish special, such as California sea bass grilled in banana leaves. “It’s been an incredibly exciting journey to bring the vision for Marelle to life within the eclectic culinary community of Santa Monica,” says Chef Raphael Lunetta in a statement.
“Having grown up and celebrated so much of my life and career in Santa Monica—even attending high school a few blocks away from this property—Marelle is a beautiful addition within the community that has supported me through everything thus far.” The bar program, curated by Beverage Director Amanda Fewster (previously etta an.
