Hired a year ago as Director of Operations at Solaire Restaurant & Bar (located in Hotel Paradox), Susan Croal was living in Chicago working in hospitality management when general manager Troy Christian, also her mentor and former boss, asked her to come help with food and beverage for a couple of weeks.
Croal ended up falling in love with not only the Santa Cruz community and lifestyle, but also the staff at Solaire and she decided to stay. Feeling like the restaurant lacked an identity and cohesive vision, Croal and Christian utilized their extensive expertise to streamline the offerings, revamp the menu and focus on building local relationships.
Solaire’s space is wide open and airy, integrating seamlessly with their locally renowned pool amidst a “nature meets art” sensibility and aura that Croal says is modern, funky and eclectic. When it comes to the food, she says the breakfast burrito is one hit and they also have a popular weekend brunch highlighted by the classic French sandwich Croque Madame with prosciutto, gruyèere cheese, sunny side egg and sauce Mornay.
On the lunch/dinner side, Croal recommends appetizers like the loaded Paradox Nachos underneath housemade carnitas and the local Pacific calamari with yogurt aioli. Entrée highlights include double smash burgers, local fresh-caught fish and Croal’s personal go-to: tempura-battered mahi mahi tacos with flavors both bright and tangy. Dessert options include carrot and chocolate cakes, and their full bar has a strong selection of craft cocktails.
Tell me about Solaire’s community outreach.
SUSAN CROAL: When I started here, it was apparent that we lacked a place in the Santa Cruz dining scene. We focused on a neighborhood night (Tuesdays), catered specifically to locals that features $2 Modelos and $3 street tacos. We have also focused on partnering with local artists and purveyors, showcasing their products and harvests in various applications throughout the restaurant and hotel.
What’s on tap this summer?
We are looking forward to another robust pool season and activations with some of our talented local artists. This includes our Duck-Duck-Goose with White Rabbit Social Club, which is a multi-artist showcase featuring ducks and geese painted and sculpted in a variety of creative ways. Our pool space is a total vibe and open every day for not only hotel guests, but also through a limited number of day passes.
611 Ocean Street, Santa Cruz, 831-600-4525; solairesantacruz.com
