The Lantern Room Debuts in Reinvented Monterey Beach Hotel

August 27, 2024 – Notable numbers and names are part of the promise at reborn Monterey Beach Hotel, officially launched last week.

Numbers like 4 stories of views, 600 feet of continuous shoreline, 7,500 square feet of event space and 32,500 square feet of private beach ready for hotel-produced clam bakes and sandcastle competitions.

Names like Highgate, Ascendent Capital Partners, and Centerbridge Partners, major firms from the sphere of hotel management and private investment, with destination properties and big-city offices around the world, are all involved.

Marriott’s even getting in on the hospitality by adding MBH to its Tribute Portfolio of unique and independent partner hotels.

The most meaningful number, however, is the simplest.

The number is 1, as in MBH represents the one and only hotel right on the beach in a long stretch of California famous for beaches—and the Coastal Commission won’t be allowing any more of those. 

That was the magic number Edible noted in breaking news of the relaunch with “Found Treasure: Monterey Beach Hotel Lobby Bar.” 

The resulting panoramic vistas are singular, from the floor-to-ceiling glass in the lobby floor (with accompanying bar, sitting areas and fireplace space) and the fourth floor restaurant (with unobstructed views from dozens of glass-side and raised tables).

Sidenote: Another nice number is 20, as in the percent discount for locals for all food and drink in each of the three dining options. Remembering to ask, is worth it.

The most significant name is similarly straightforward: Beach, as in a return to Monterey Beach in the title (from Monterey Tides). If you got it, flaunt it. 

Still, the most newsworthy info for flavor-forward locals doesn’t appear on paper. It’ll land on the plate and splash in the glass.

That’s because a strong kitchen team led by resident culinary advisor Paul Corsentino and longtime executive chef Jose Velasquez have dived deeply into sourcing with selectivity and enthusiasm. 

Contributing creators include Sea Harvest Fish Market, Swank Farms, Glaum Egg Ranch, Fogline Farm, Captain + Stoker, Alvarado Street Brewery and Ad Astra Bread Co.

Velasquez, who’s been cooking locally for a quarter century, says the most empowering part of the program has been the ability to celebrate ingredients and flavors. 

“Our new approach allows us to work directly with farmers and fishermen,” he says. “It’s exciting to see how this direct connection enhances our dishes but also supports our community.”

With Ian Brand steering the wine program, small-scale makers from nearby AVAs lead the way.

Think showcased wines like Caraccioli Cellars Cuvée, Wrath Sauvignon Blanc and Ghostwriter Pinot Noir—along with I Brand & Family’s La Marea Albarino, Paysan Rosé Massa Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon. 

Design updates accompany the epicurean reimagining. 

The Lobby Lounge I’ve loved since its funkier days got a refresh. 

Same for The Lantern Room up top, though the fourth story views need no redo. 

An intriguing addition to those view-driven venues comes with lower-lying Tidewater, a fire-pitted lounge on the deck adjacent to the hotel’s sea wall and sand. 

The all-outdoor hangout zone draws from a similar deck as up top, with menu highlights like oysters, steamed mussels, lobster rolls and shrimp tacos ($22-$40). 

“Locals might be surprised by the creative twist we’ve added to traditional dishes at The Lantern Room,” Velasquez says. “We’ve incorporated some unexpected global flavors while still honoring local ingredients.” 

As for Tidewater, he describes a more relaxed ambiance. 

“It’s designed to be a gathering spot where guests can enjoy great food [and] cozy up to the fire with blankets, a craft cocktail, and the best sunset views in Monterey,” he adds. 

A lot has happened since the Summer of Love in 1967, when the hotel opened. 

You know, moon landings, Berlin Wall collapses, global financial meltdowns and a planetary pandemic. 

In that time Monterey Beach Hotel has gone through more ownership changes than the Internet is old enough to track. 

What’s most fun about the Summer of Love birthdate is something very rooted in local lore also debuted in 1967: Monterey International Pop Festival.

The festival was the first commercial American rock festival, a transformative moment that went beyond music. 

This is not a prediction the overhauled Monterey Beach Hotel will change its industry. 

But with these updates, it does have a far better chance of getting closer to the soul of a special place. 

More via Edible’s Aug. 2 spotlight on the remodel and montereybeach.com.