Cavatina at the Sunset Marquis Hotel

It is only fitting that Cavatina at the Sunset Marquis Hotel, famous for its relationship with the music industry, would be an aria of a restaurant.

This review is originally from a January 2014 preview meal, but it’s since been revised in 2021 you know it’s a restaurant from the ages. Executive Chef Luis Morales offers a menu made for full sit-down dinners with the family and snacks after late-night recording sessions.

Appetizers 

The meal begins with light bites that are meant to be shared or replace large plates altogether.

Togarashi Potato Chips with Spicy Onion Dip ($8) 

Spiced Marcona Almonds ($7)

Yellow Tail with Santa Barbara Uni and Caviar–I might be the uni-ly person who does not like uni, but it’s worth it for the yellow tail and caviar. This has since been replaced on the menu, so if you’re a fan of crudo you’ll have to order the Tuna Poke instead ($19).

Entrees 

The Prime Sirloin with burnt herbs has been replaced with a Prime Flat Iron Steak with homemade fries, and chimichurri ($34). Other favorites include the Sunset Cheeseburger with smoked pickle dressing ($24). They also make Veggie Burgers ($22) and Golden Cauliflower Steaks with truffle coconut yogurt ($23) if you are not eating meat.

I used to believe there should be a lower price-point for beverages without alcohol or entrees without meat. However when you consider the number of steps taken to make those meatless meals taste like the real thing, you understand the price should also remain the same.

Dessert

Go with the STP, Sunset Toffee Pudding, made with salted whiskey toffee, candied pecans, and orange ($8), or a Strawberry Tres Leches with brioche and vanilla ice cream ($9).

After all, a night at Cavatina at the Sunset Marquis Hotel deserves nothing if not a sweet finale.