Summer 2023

60 C A R M E L M A G A Z I N E • S U M M E R 2 0 2 3 Photo: Kelli Uldall W hen Ken Donkersloot and Mona Calis acquired three iconic Monterey Peninsula restaurants, they set about creating and building Coastal Roots Hospitality, elevating the brands to an even higher level as well as establishing Coastal Roots Events & Catering. Donkersloot’s strong corporate and research background, coupled with Calis’ extensive hospitality experience, resulted in a formidable team—one with a firm commitment to giving back to the community they have come to love. “We’re proud of our philanthropy,” says Donkersloot,“it’s at the core of who we are.” Their “Pick it Up-Pay it Forward” campaign is a prime exam- ple. “Instead of paying delivery fees, when customers choose to pick up their orders, ten percent of the gross sales are donated to local charities,” Calis explains. Since 2020, more than $250,000 has been granted to non- profits such as Kinship Center, Food Bank for Monterey County and Community Partnership for Youth. We are blessed with some of the best staff on the peninsula,” Calis says. Donkersloot adds, “We know that creating a premier hospitality group means having employees engaged in the company. We strive to make them feel a part of something bigger.” For more information, visit www.coastalrootshospitality.com. — Michael Chatfield HOS P I TAL I TY PROF I L E Ken Donkersloot and Mona Calis