Linger at Lulio

A product of The Ritz-Carlton Bacara’s 25th anniversary renovations, Lulio brings Mediterranean-inspired flavors and ambiance to the American Riviera

By Eva Grunburg 

Formerly the Bistro at The Ritz-Carlton Bacara, Lulio brings fresh Mediterranean flavors in a relaxed atmosphere. Its seamless indoor-outdoor seating options suit any dining preference, from stunning coastal views to warm, sun-soaked interiors. Combined with its top-notch service, Lulio is truly a place you could linger at forever. 

Its name, “Lulio,” draws from the Latin word for July, evoking warm summer afternoons and leisurely strolls. While it boasts traditional Mediterranean fare like Kalamata Olive Bread and Tzatsiki, it also offers its own coastal twist with dishes like the California Seabass. 

As my boyfriend and I examine the plethora of new offerings, our server, Luis, steps in. He offers his recommendations for the Mezze to start our meal–though we didn’t need his guidance to decide on cocktails. One glance at the Taverna Margarita with Don Julio Blanco, pepperoncini, limoncello, citrus, and smoked sea salt, and the Ambrosia Smash with buffalo trace, benedictine, honey liqueur, muddled blackberries, and citrus were all the encouragement we needed to decide. 

When our drinks and mezze plates arrive, we’re met with a stunning array of colorful crudité, smooth hummus, house-made pita, and a new menu favorite, the Warm Kasseri. The warm cheese, Calabrian chili honey, and earthy rosemary offer a sweet and savory complement to the pillowy pita it's served with.

After the mezze’s success, we decide to put our fate into Luis’s hands once more. He guides us toward the Ouzo Rigatoni and the 10oz Beef Tenderloin–which he warns cannot be ordered without the Roasted Potatoes. We oblige, and are soon greeted with generous plates that rival the beauty of the mezze. The Ouzo Rigatoni is creamy yet light, and the Beef Tenderloin paired with Roasted Potatoes revives the classic dish with additions like lemon zest and black pepper paste.

Somehow making room for dessert, we opt for another recommendation: the Loukoumades. The warm Greek donuts, paired with rose water and lychee, and strained yogurt bring a delicately sweet ending to our meal. We savor each bite, feeling luxurious–even before we notice the gold flakes they’re dusted with.

We linger at Lulio until the sun is set, reflecting on our evening of top-notch service, refreshing dishes, and easygoing atmosphere, and leave inspired to plan our next trip to the Mediterranean (restaurant).