By the sea

Before heading over to Carmel River State Beach on Saturday, I decided to try out my father's recommendation -- Casanova.


I was seated at one of their outdoor tables. And they were kind enough to turn on the heat lamp for me. Oh, and if I was still cold, they had lap blankets available. Because while Saturday's weather was nice, it was much more the typical weather of the Monterey Peninsula.

I had wanted to order both an appetizer and an entree but the server dissuaded me of this. Something about how I had to be absolutely starving to be able to eat both. And I wasn't.


Since the appetizer I had wanted was a part of their regular menu, I decided to go with one of their specials for that day -- a roasted pork chop served with mascarpone polenta and a pear jus. It was heaven on a plate.

After leaving the restaurant, I called my dad to tell him great his choice had been. His reaction? "They're open for lunch as well?" Yep, every day although on Sunday they expand the menu for brunch.

If I lived in the area, I know I'd find some reason to go to Casanova at least once a month. As it is, I am now trying to figure out the next time I can get down to the area.