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Cast & Plow
Master Critic Reviews (7 Lists)
Cast & Plow
8.1
Cast & Plow at The Ritz-Carlton Marina del Rey is a waterfront farm-to-table restaurant where housemade ice cream and sorbet headline the dessert menu after harbor-view dinners. Guests linger on the terrace over chocolate lava cake and rotating ice cream flavors that feel more composed and plated than parlor-style.
Must-Try Dishes:
Chocolate lava cake with housemade ice cream, Housemade ice cream and sorbet selection, Seasonal dessert served à la mode
Scores:
Value: 7
Service: 8.6
Consistency: 8.4
Food Quality: 8.2
Atmosphere: 9
Cultural Relevance: 7.5
What makes it special: Hotel waterfront dining where polished desserts lean on housemade ice cream and sorbet.
Who should go: Date-night and special-occasion diners who want dessert with views
When to visit: Golden hour into evening for terrace seating over the harbor
What to order: Chocolate lava cake, housemade ice cream and sorbet, dessert à la mode
Insider tip: Book a later reservation and linger over dessert on the patio to catch the marina lights after sunset.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Valet is available at The Ritz-Carlton (typically $15–$20). Limited marina-adjacent street parking can be found along Admiralty Way but fills quickly during peak dining hours.
Dress code: Smart casual. Polished denim is acceptable, but most guests lean upscale due to the hotel setting and waterfront ambiance.
Noise level: Moderate. Indoor tables can get busier during peak hours, while the terrace offers calmer, conversation-friendly volumes.
Weekend wait: Expect a 30–45 minute wait without a reservation, especially for patio seating.
Weekday lunch: Minimal to no wait; the restaurant is far less busy midday.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes — several composed vegetarian plates plus vegetarian-friendly desserts.
Vegan options: Limited — typically a sorbet option and a few plant-forward starters.
Gluten-free options: Good accommodations; staff can guide GF diners and many entrées can be modified.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes. The marina views, polished service, and relaxed upscale vibe create an elegant but not overly formal setting, especially on the terrace at sunset.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Possibly, but weekends and sunset hours fill quickly. Walk-ins may secure indoor seating faster than terrace tables, which often require advance booking.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes for older kids; it’s a refined hotel restaurant with a calmer atmosphere. Younger children are welcome but there are no dedicated play areas or kids’ activities.
Best For
Better for: Waterfront ambiance, polished service, and plated desserts featuring housemade ice creams and sorbets elevate the experience above casual parlors.
Skip if: You want a quick, budget-friendly ice cream scoop shop or a large range of inventive flavors; this is a composed, restaurant-style dessert experience.
Cast & Plow
8.3
Cast & Plow at The Ritz-Carlton leans into farm-to-table California cooking with Baja scallops, organic salmon, and a strong breakfast-to-dinner program. Couples come for the polished service, marina-front terrace, and the feeling of an upscale hotel date night without leaving Marina del Rey.
Must-Try Dishes:
Baja Scallops, Organic Salmon, House-Smoked Ribeye Steak
Scores:
Value: 6.8
Service: 8.2
Consistency: 8.1
Food Quality: 8.7
Atmosphere: 8.9
Cultural Relevance: 8
What makes it special: Ritz-Carlton marina restaurant balancing farm-to-table plates with resort polish.
Who should go: Couples wanting luxury hotel energy without leaving the marina.
When to visit: Sunset into evening for harbor lights and longer conversations.
What to order: Baja scallops, organic salmon, house-smoked ribeye.
Insider tip: Start with a drink in the lounge, then move to the terrace.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Valet is the most reliable option at the Ritz-Carlton and typically runs $15–$20; limited metered spots along Admiralty Way fill quickly after 6pm.
Dress code: Smart casual leaning polished—jeans are fine if paired with a button-down or nice top; many guests dress slightly upscale due to the hotel setting.
Noise level: Moderate—soft lounge music and patio breeze, but you can comfortably hold a conversation both indoors and on the terrace.
Weekend wait: 20–40 minutes without a reservation, especially for terrace tables; bar seats may open sooner.
Weekday lunch: Typically no wait, with plenty of space indoors and outside.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes—several salads, market vegetables, and pasta-style dishes rotate seasonally.
Vegan options: Limited—usually 1–2 composed options; the kitchen can modify some dishes on request.
Gluten-free options: Yes—many entrées can be prepared gluten-free, and staff is trained on cross-contact awareness due to hotel standards.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes—the waterfront terrace, polished service, and relaxed pacing make it great for deeper conversation without feeling formal or intimidating.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Often yes on weekdays; on weekends your best bet is arriving early or sitting at the lounge/bar while waiting for a patio opening.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes for well-behaved kids 8+; the hotel setting is calm, and there’s a kids’ menu at breakfast and lunch, though dinner skews more adult.
Best For
Better for: Waterfront date nights, polished hotel service, and a seamless breakfast-to-dinner program compared to standalone restaurants along the marina.
Skip if: You want bold, experimental cooking or a lively, high-energy scene—this is more about comfort, calm, and upscale California plates.
Cast & Plow
8.2
Cast & Plow is the Ritz-Carlton Marina del Rey’s farm-to-table restaurant, pairing marina-front terrace seating and fire pits with polished California cooking from breakfast through dinner. It’s the refined-but-relaxed option for hotel guests and locals who want composed plates, professional service, and a proper wine list without leaving the dockside bubble.
Must-Try Dishes:
Wild Mushroom Risotto with Scallops, Baja-Style Scallops, Organic Salmon Entrée
Scores:
Value: 6.7
Service: 8.5
Consistency: 8.3
Food Quality: 8.6
Atmosphere: 8.9
Cultural Relevance: 7.8
What makes it special: Ritz-Carlton terrace dining with marina views and farm-to-table plates.
Who should go: Guests wanting upscale hotel energy and professional service.
When to visit: Sunset or early evening for harbor lights and fire-pit tables.
What to order: Wild mushroom risotto with scallops, organic salmon, brioche starter.
Insider tip: Request an outdoor fire-pit table when you book, especially on weekends.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Valet at the Ritz-Carlton is widely used and runs on the pricier side; limited metered street parking along Admiralty Way fills quickly on weekends.
Dress code: Upscale smart casual—polished outfits fit the Ritz-Carlton setting, though clean jeans are acceptable.
Noise level: Moderate; the terrace stays conversational with low ambient hotel noise and marina breezes.
Weekend wait: 30–60 minutes without a reservation, especially for outdoor fire-pit tables.
Weekday lunch: Little to no wait; business lunch flow moves smoothly.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes—salads, vegetable-forward starters, and customizable mains are available.
Vegan options: Limited—typically 1–2 composed vegan-friendly dishes plus modifiable sides.
Gluten-free options: Good options—many entrées can be made gluten-free with substitutions; staff is well-trained.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes—waterfront views, polished service, and fire-pit tables create an elevated but relaxed environment ideal for longer conversations.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Possible but not guaranteed; indoor seating is more attainable, while outdoor marina-view tables and fire pits usually require advance booking.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes for well-behaved kids—hotel service is accommodating and there are simpler dishes at breakfast and lunch, though dinner skews more adult and date-night oriented.
Best For
Better for: More refined service and marina-edge ambiance than nearby casual seafood or hotel restaurants, with a broader farm-to-table menu across all dayparts.
Skip if: You want cutting-edge or experimental cooking—this leans classic, polished, and resort-friendly rather than envelope-pushing.
Cast & Plow
8.3
Cast & Plow at The Ritz-Carlton leans into farm-to-table California cooking with marina-front terrace seating and fire pits. It’s where upscale hotel polish, composed plates, and a strong wine program align for business celebrations, birthdays, and romantic dinners that still feel relaxed.
Must-Try Dishes:
Wild Mushroom Risotto with Scallops, Organic Salmon Entrée, Short Rib or Ribeye Special
Scores:
Value: 6.8
Service: 8.7
Consistency: 8.2
Food Quality: 8.4
Atmosphere: 8.8
Cultural Relevance: 8
What makes it special: Ritz-Carlton terrace dining with marina views and farm-to-table plates.
Who should go: Celebrations needing polished service without stuffy fine-dining rules.
When to visit: Sunset or early evening for harbor lights and fire pits.
What to order: Mushroom risotto, organic salmon, daily steak or short rib.
Insider tip: Book the terrace and ask about the private dining room.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Valet at the Ritz-Carlton is the easiest option (typically $15–$20 with validation). Limited metered spots along Admiralty Way fill quickly after 6pm, and garage parking in nearby complexes is hit-or-miss during peak hours.
Dress code: Smart casual leaning polished. Nice jeans are fine, but most guests wear elevated resort wear, blouses, collared shirts, or light layers suitable for the waterfront breeze.
Noise level: Moderate. Indoors stays comfortably conversational; the terrace can get livelier around sunset but still manageable for business or date-night conversations.
Weekend wait: 20–40 minutes without a reservation, longer for terrace seating during peak sunset hours.
Weekday lunch: Typically no wait, especially before 12:30pm.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Solid selection with farm-to-table vegetable dishes, salads, and modifiable entrées like the mushroom risotto.
Vegan options: Limited but workable—usually 1–2 composed plant-forward dishes plus salads that can be customized.
Gluten-free options: Many dishes can be prepared gluten-free, and staff is accustomed to dietary requests; call ahead for certainty on fryers and cross-contact.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes. The marina views, fire pits, and polished-but-relaxed service create a comfortable atmosphere that feels elevated without being overly formal.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Sometimes—walk-ins are possible at off-peak times, but terrace seating is rarely available without a reservation. Weekends and sunset hours book out early.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes for well-behaved children or older kids. The Ritz-Carlton environment is upscale, and while high chairs are available, the vibe is more suited to families celebrating or dining calmly rather than toddlers needing space to roam.
Best For
Better for: Business celebrations, refined California dishes, waterfront dining, and occasions where polished service matters but guests still want a relaxed atmosphere.
Skip if: You want edgy or experimental cooking, high-energy nightlife, or lower-price casual dining—nearby spots on Admiralty and Washington offer those experiences instead.
Cast & Plow
8.4
Cast & Plow at The Ritz-Carlton leans into farm-to-table California cooking with a terrace that spills out toward the marina and fire pits along the water. It’s the refined-but-relaxed option for hotel guests and locals who want polished plates, a strong wine list, and marina-front seating without feeling overly formal.
Must-Try Dishes:
Wild mushroom risotto, Organic salmon, Chef’s seasonal steak or short rib
Scores:
Value: 6.9
Service: 8.2
Consistency: 8
Food Quality: 8.6
Atmosphere: 9.1
Cultural Relevance: 7.8
What makes it special: Ritz-Carlton terrace dining with marina views, fire pits, and farm-to-table plates.
Who should go: Guests wanting polished hotel service and marina-side meals.
When to visit: Sunset or early evening to catch harbor lights from the terrace.
What to order: Wild mushroom risotto, organic salmon, daily steak or short rib.
Insider tip: Request a terrace table near the fire pits for the most atmospheric outdoor seating.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Valet is available at the Ritz-Carlton entrance (typically $15–$20). Limited metered spots along Admiralty Way can work for short stays but fill quickly during sunset hours.
Dress code: Smart casual with a polished lean—dressy denim is acceptable, but most guests opt for elevated casual or business-casual attire.
Noise level: Moderate outdoors with marina activity; still easy to hold a conversation, especially on the terrace away from the bar.
Weekend wait: Expect 30–45 minutes without a reservation, longer on warm-weather evenings when outdoor seating is in high demand.
Weekday lunch: Generally no wait; walk-ins are common and seated quickly.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Several strong options including composed salads, risotto variations, and seasonal vegetable starters.
Vegan options: Limited but workable—expect 1–2 entrées or modifiable dishes depending on seasonal menus.
Gluten-free options: Many dishes can be prepared gluten-free, including seafood plates; staff is knowledgeable and will guide substitutions.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes—its marina-front terrace, soft lighting, and polished service create an elegant but low-pressure setting ideal for a relaxed first-date dinner or drinks.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Often yes on weekdays, but outdoor waterfront tables are limited. On weekends, a reservation is strongly recommended if you want the terrace or fire-pit seating.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes for well-behaved kids or older children; the outdoor seating and hotel environment are accommodating, though the vibe leans more adult and refined than family casual.
Best For
Better for: A polished-but-relaxed marina setting with upscale California cooking—ideal for date nights, business meals, or guests seeking refined hotel-level service outdoors.
Skip if: You want a casual, budget-friendly waterfront spot, or prefer a louder, more energetic scene—this leans upscale and serene.
Cast & Plow
8.5
Cast & Plow at The Ritz-Carlton Marina del Rey is a waterfront farm-to-table restaurant focused on community-made, locally sustainable California cuisine, pairing market vegetables with responsibly sourced seafood and meats. Guests come for Marina Harbor views, polished hotel service, and seasonal plates that showcase Southern California produce.
Must-Try Dishes:
Lobster Frittata, Eggs Benedict with Farmers Market Hollandaise, Organic Salmon with Seasonal Vegetables
Scores:
Value: 7
Service: 8.6
Consistency: 8.7
Food Quality: 8.9
Atmosphere: 9.1
Cultural Relevance: 8.4
What makes it special: Waterfront farm-to-table dining at a luxury hotel with seasonal California menus.
Who should go: Diners seeking upscale seasonal California cuisine with marina views.
When to visit: Weekend brunch or golden hour dinner for peak waterfront ambiance.
What to order: Lobster frittata, eggs Benedict, organic salmon with vegetables.
Insider tip: Request a fire-pit patio table for sunset and harbor views.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Hotel valet is the primary option (typically $12–$20 depending on validation); limited metered spots along the waterfront fill quickly on weekends.
Dress code: Smart casual. Resort-polished looks fit best; elevated denim is acceptable but avoid beachwear.
Noise level: Moderate. Patio offers softer conversational volume; indoor dining can rise during brunch rush.
Weekend wait: 20–40 minutes without a reservation, longer on warm-weather Saturdays.
Weekday lunch: Usually seated immediately or within 5–10 minutes.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes — several seasonal vegetable plates and brunch items feature produce-forward preparations.
Vegan options: Limited but viable — typically 1–2 composed dishes plus modifiable sides depending on the season.
Gluten-free options: Strong options — many proteins and salads are naturally gluten-free, and the kitchen can adjust preparations on request.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes. The marina backdrop, polished but relaxed service, and seasonally focused menu create an easy, elevated atmosphere ideal for conversation.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Often on weekdays and early brunch hours; during peak weekends, walk-ins should expect a wait unless choosing the bar or high-tops.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes for families with children 6 and up; the hotel environment is calm and staff are accommodating, though the setting leans more adult during sunset dinners.
Best For
Better for: Seasonally driven California cuisine with luxury-hotel polish and the strongest waterfront ambiance in the area.
Skip if: You want ultra-casual dining, budget-focused meals, or a high-energy bar scene — nearby Washington Boulevard spots may suit those better.
Cast & Plow
8.5
Cast & Plow at The Ritz-Carlton Marina del Rey offers farm-to-table California cuisine with a dedicated private dining room overlooking the marina. Groups use it for board dinners and milestone events where polished service, seasonal menus, and waterfront views matter as much as the food.
Must-Try Dishes:
Grilled Octopus, Lamb Chops with seasonal vegetables, Lobster Frittata at brunch
Scores:
Value: 6.8
Service: 8.4
Consistency: 8.3
Food Quality: 8.8
Atmosphere: 8.9
Cultural Relevance: 8.2
What makes it special: Ritz-Carlton farm-to-table dining with dedicated marina-view private rooms.
Who should go: Teams or families wanting upscale waterfront celebrations.
When to visit: Weekend brunch or sunset dinners for peak marina views.
What to order: Grilled octopus, lamb chops, lobster frittata.
Insider tip: Ask events staff about custom seasonal menus for your private room.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Valet is available at the Ritz-Carlton (typically $15–$20); limited metered waterfront parking fills quickly during brunch and sunset.
Dress code: Smart casual leaning polished — elevated denim is fine, but most private-room groups dress business casual or cocktail-light.
Noise level: Moderate indoors, quieter in private rooms; conversation is comfortable even during peak hours.
Weekend wait: Reservations are strongly recommended; walk-ins may wait 30–45 minutes depending on hotel occupancy.
Weekday lunch: Usually no wait, especially outside peak convention or hotel event periods.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes — several composed vegetarian starters and mains built around farmers-market vegetables.
Vegan options: Limited — typically 1–2 items, though the kitchen can craft custom vegan plates for private dining with advance notice.
Gluten-free options: Good options — many proteins and salads are naturally gluten-free, and the kitchen accommodates substitutions.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes — the marina views, hotel-level service, and quiet private dining atmosphere make it a strong choice for an elevated but not overly formal first date.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Possible but unpredictable. Walk-ins can be accommodated during non-peak hours; for private rooms, advance booking is required due to event demand.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes for well-behaved children; the hotel provides high chairs and a flexible menu, though the private dining room is best suited to older kids or family celebrations.
Best For
Better for: Polished, service-forward private dining with marina views — ideal for executive dinners, milestone celebrations, and elevated brunch gatherings.
Skip if: You prefer ultra-casual waterfront dining, are looking for adventurous tasting menus, or want a budget-friendly group option.