The Ritz-Carlton Marina Del Rey Welcomes New Pastry Chef

Pastry chef Vanessa Johnson has joined the Ritz-Carlton, Marina Del Rey kitchen team at their signature Cast & Plow restaurant.

Having worked in kitchens across the country at The Ritz-Carlton, Los Angeles; Le Cirque at the Bellagio in Las Vegas; and most recently the Capella Pedregal Hotel & Spa in Cabo San Lucas, Mexico, Johnson returns to the Ritz-Carlton chain to create unique desserts, breads, and pastries.

This Valentine's Day, Johnson will showcase her talent by creating a stunning presentation for couples to enjoy after their meal that consists of a glass adorned with circles of raspberry purée and agar and filled with crème fraîche panna cotta, raspberry foam, and a homemade macaroon, and topped with an edible flower.

Cast & Plow celebrates its one-year anniversary this month, and executive chef Umit Kaygusuz will be offering a special Valentine's Day menu including smoked mahi crudo, striped bass with winter vegetables, beef rossini, and mushroom orzotto.

Minutes from LAX, Venice Beach, Santa Monica, and Beverly Hills, The Ritz-Carlton, Marina del Rey offers a peaceful retreat drawing on the soothing elements of the surrounding ocean. Guests can admire the exceptional scenery from each of the 304 guest rooms and suites, featuring private balconies; the farm-to-table restaurant Cast & Plow, highlighting locally sourced ingredients; L.A.'s only waterfront pool; and the luxury spa.