Our famous McCarthy salad recipe
Between representing high-profile clients such as Ginger Rogers, Joan Crawford and Ava Gardner, McCarthy often relaxed on the grounds of The Beverly Hills Hotel. As captain of the Midwick Country Club polo team in the 1940s, the Polo Lounge quickly became one of his favourite spots.
It was at the Polo Lounge that the McCarthy Salad was first served. One day, McCarthy requested a very specific combination of ingredients for his salad, and the recipe was born. It’s remained unchanged since then, and continues to be a signature dish at the hotel to this day.
Its tantalising secret? Each ingredient is delicious, but it’s when they all come together that the salad’s legendary properties become clear. Grilled chicken pairs perfectly with crisp iceberg and romaine lettuce, roasted beets add warm depth, and applewood-smoked bacon brings an unexpected burst of flavour. Here’s how to make it yourself.
For the salad
¼ head iceberg lettuce
½ head romaine lettuce
½ cup diced, grilled free-range chicken
½ cup diced, roasted red beets
¼ cup free-range egg yolk
¼ cup free-range egg white
½ cup finely diced aged cheddar cheese
½ cup applewood-smoked bacon
¼ cup diced tomato
¼ cup diced avocado
For the dressing
1 cup balsamic vinegar
1 shallot
1 tablespoon brown sugar
3 cloves roasted garlic
1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
Salt and black pepper to season
Canola oil
Artfully arrange the salad ingredients in a bowl. Place the dressing ingredients in a blender and slowly drizzle in the canola oil to emulsify. Pour the dressing over the salad and enjoy.
From power lunches to poolside lounging, dining at The Beverly Hills Hotel offers something to satisfy every craving, occasion or mood.
Polo Lounge
More than just celebrity glamour
Where else but the Polo Lounge could have a candy-striped ceiling and make it look effortlessly cool? This iconic room, once described as ‘Hollywood’s commissary’ has a history as fabled as Tinsel Town itself.