Dining
a bowl of food with a fork and knife

Get a Taste

To know Monterey, you need to know its flavors—the richness of the wine and the bounty of local ingredients. In keeping with the region’s flourishing culinary culture, our restaurant and dining experiences highlight local flavors, served as fresh as possible, and sourced from our local partners.

Meet the Tastemakers 

Paul Corsentino

This is Paul Corsentino

Chef Paul Corsentino, the Resident Culinary Advisor at Monterey Beach Hotel, channels over 20 years of experience in his work crafting coastal American cuisine. An Illinois native, Corsentino honed his skills at top restaurants in Chicago and New York before leading kitchens in California. His menus are shaped and influenced by local foragers, fishermen, and farmers, reflecting the region's seasonal bounty. Chef Corsentino is excited to continue captivating palates with his innovative cuisine at Monterey Beach Hotel. 

a man in a cowboy hat

This is Ian Brand

Named “Winemaker of the Year” by The San Francisco Chronicle and “The Vineyard Whisperer” by in-the-know enthusiasts all over the region, Ian Brand knows what he’s talking about regarding wine. He understands how the unique geography and weather of Monterey influence the flavors of the wine, creating distinctive characteristics that set them apart. Ian knows what varietals pair best with specific flavors, how to identify what makes your glass of red taste “earthy,” and can explain precisely why Monterey is the source of some of the best wines in all of Monterey County, California.

a man in a black chef coat

This Is Executive Chef Jose Velasquez

Executive Chef Jose Velasquez, originally from Jalisco, Mexico, has been crafting unforgettable dining experiences inspired by the natural beauty of Monterey Bay for over 25 years. Trained by top local chefs, Chef Jose is best known for his creativity, passion for food, and dedication to using fresh, sustainable ingredients. His California-Latin coastal cuisine blends local produce, sustainable seafood, and organic meats, earning his menus at The Lantern Room a reputation as one of Monterey's best-kept secrets.