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236 C A R M E L M A G A Z I N E • S U M M E R / F A L L 2 0 1 5 The glass-enclosed rooftop Conservatory Dining Room, with spectacular panoramic views, is one of the elegant private areas that the Montage offers for events, weddings or meetings. For guests who can't bear to say goodbye, there are also private residences available. huevos rancheros, fish tacos, turkey burgers, smoothies and an inspired breakfast salad of mixed greens, kale, poached eggs, tomato, bacon and avocado are among the healthful and deli- cious fare. Luxurious cabanas can be reserved with food service and amenities personalized for families, spa-goers, and those celebrating special events. Afternoon tea service is offered in the lobby lounge. For dinner, award-winning Scarpetta, helmed by celebrity Chef Scott Conant of the Food Network's "24 Hour Restaurant Battle" and "Chopped," along with Los Angeles Scarpetta Executive Chef Freddy Vargas, offers eclectic modern Italian cuisine and a renowned wine program. "We bring authenticity to international cuisine," Orlich says. "We embrace mostly organic pro- duce so guests don't have to make the choice." Scarpetta General Manager Sandro Coppola explains that the most important element in the food is fresh ingredients. "Our chef believes in slow cooking the fish and the meat so it gets a chance to combine with the other ingredients," Coppola says. "We change our menu constantly with the seasons." Items like fresh tomato-basil spaghetti made in-house each day, an award-winning bread bas- ket with filone, ciabattini rolls, focaccia with rose- mary and sea salt, and two kinds of Stromboli with mozzarella, salami and broccoli rabe with citrus-infused olive oil from Tuscany, are extremely popular. Other favorites include short ribs, Turbot, mushroom polenta, and an Italian version of sashimi called crudo, all created in a $2 million kitchen with custom ovens from Italy. The elegant bar, which offers great people watching, serves up signature cocktails such as the For tuna, which is made with pear vodka, peach puree, and a tiny Japanese Kanro Wakamomo peach, said to bring good luck to those who wish upon it before enjoying. A rare Whisky Lounge, £10, offers authentic Scottish service poured in Lalique crystal, and is located above Scarpetta. The extremely personal, attentive, friendly service enhances an already magical din- ing adventure. "We take people on a journey where they The location serves as a perfect launching pad for any Los Angeles area experience—from shopping, to art, to theater, to Hollywood attractions— all assisted by the hotel concierge.