Rafa Carvajal: Please describe the type of cuisine at Castile.
Chef Louis Scaramuzzi: Castile pays homage to The Hotel
Zamora’s Spanish-influenced roots with a vibrant menu of
authentic Mediterranean flavors inspired by locally-sourced
seafood and other fresh Gulf Coast ingredients obtained
from local farms and farmer’s markets.
RC: How did you develop the new menu?
LS: I researched the different regions of Spain from Valencia to Madrid and added a hint of Argentinian and Cuban
flare from my experience growing up in Florida – a definite
melting pot of Spanish and Latin cultures.
RC: What are your favorite dishes on the menu?
LS: My favorites are the Coriander Crusted Ahi Tuna with
mofongo, crispy pork belly, tomato orange broth and the
Yucca Croquettes with house cured pork belly, cured tomatoes, manchego cheese and yellow pepper jam. Most
definitely the La Vaca Gorda because of the uniqueness of
using the full anatomy of the steer.
RC: Which dishes on the menu are the most popular with
Castile’s diners?
LS: The Short Ribs! They are extremely decadent, filled
with flavors from the Spanish brandy and Rioja wines that
are used in the reduction drizzled around the plate.
RC: Tell our readers about Castile’s cocktail program.
LS: Castile’s inventive handcrafted cocktails are rotated
on an ongoing basis to include seasonal ingredients. A
special happy hour cocktail menu is also available on the
360° Rooftop.
RC: What do you enjoy the most about being the chef at
Castile Restaurant?
LS: My wonderful staff. I get to work with the most amazing
and talented people around. Plus, just take a look at where
I get to go everyday! The beauty of St. Pete Beach and the
Gulf of Mexico helps my creative juices flow and I think that
is reflected in the new menus!
RC: How would you describe Castile Restaurant in three
words?
LS: Eclectic. Bold. Local. And delicious!
RC: Is there anything else you would like to share with
Wire Magazine’s readers about Castile?
LS: The experience is where it’s at – Castile is a true local
hotspot. From the vibrant décor to the sexy atmosphere
and the local cuisine, there is really nothing quite like it in
St. Pete Beach.
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