Rubaiya Karim
Marisella, a new fine-dining restaurant inspired by Mediterranean flavors and California’s coastal offerings, will open on June 26, 2025, at The Ritz-Carlton Bacara in Goleta—a space formerly occupied by Angel Oak.
Highlights
- Marisella, led by chef Danny Grant, will be replacing Angel Oak at The Ritz-Carlton Bacara this June.
- The restaurant will open on Thursday, June 26, with a seafood-forward menu inspired by Mediterranean cuisine.
- Reservations are available through the restaurant’s official website.
Marisella To Open Its Doors at the End of June
“Marisella” translates to “star of the sea,” a nod to the restaurant’s focus on ocean-inspired cuisine. The restaurant is led by Chef and Partner Danny Grant of Maple Hospitality Group, who also helmed Kessaku, Eight Bar, and Maple & Ash.
According to official announcements, Marisella will offer a modern Californian dining experience that draws inspiration from the traditions of Mediterranean coastal regions, such as the Amalfi Coast. The menu highlights will include seasonal and local seafood, handmade pasta, and wood-fired meats. Grant especially looks forward to serving the Spaghetti al Nerano, made of just three simple ingredients: summer squash, pasta, and cheese.
The restaurant’s interiors have been designed to reflect the minimalist and oceanic beauty of the Mediterranean. It will be located inside the Ritz-Carlton Bacara in Goleta, where Angel Oak previously served its acclaimed dishes. This location is especially lucrative since it overlooks the Pacific Ocean and will offer patrons the complete seaside experience.
The debut menu will also highlight their curated wine selection and craft cocktails—an effort led by Amy Mindwiler and Christina Demas, respectively. The cocktail selection will include Negronis, a dedicated martini selection, and spritzes inspired by Italian aperitivo culture. The wine list is expected to offer a range of rare vintages, along with up-and-coming labels.
The official opening of Marisella is scheduled for June 26, 2025, Thursday. Reservations can be made through the official Marisella website.
“Lucrative” is right.
That struck me too, pretty funny.
Not the most appropriate word for a pre-review.
Anything is better than “Angel oak” .
Blech!!