Sal Casola, Jr. brings a rich family tradition, astute business acumen and a lifelong dedication to the restaurant business to his pivotal role as the third partner of Market City Caffe Hospitality Group. Growing up in the world of restaurants with his father, Sal Casola, Sr. and Chipper Pastron (his current partners) as his mentors, Casola, Jr. learned the craft of working a room, the patience of an operator and an appreciation for a strong work ethic.

Casola’s path was clear from early in his life. He honed his skills and paid his dues at the prestigious School of Hotel Administration at Cornell University from which he graduated in 1991. Upon graduation he moved to New York City where he became manager at one of the city’s finest restaurants. The authentic regional Italian cuisine of restaurateur Lidia Bastianich (who Bon Appétit apply calls a “legend”) was a celebrated restaurant. After his time at the renowned New York

City restaurant, Casola joined his father and Pastron in the Market City Caffe Hospitality Group.

Casola’s responsibilities range from directing wine programs to creating service standards to developing new concepts. In Las Vegas, he has maintained Wine Spectator’s Award of Excellence since its opening for Dragon Noodle Company & Sushi Bar and Morels French Steakhouse & Bistro at Palazzo.

In Los Angeles, Casola is owner and operator of Morels French Steakhouse & Bistro located at The Grove. He has maintained the Wine Spectator’s Award of Excellence for the last four years at Market City Caffe Burbank and at Morels French Steakhouse & Bistro since its opening in 2001.