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RAYA at The Ritz-Carlton, Laguna Niguel Reviews List
RAYA at The Ritz-Carlton, Laguna Niguel
RAYA, a restaurant concept by Richard Sandoval, showcases Pan-Latin Coastal Cuisine prepared with sustainable seafood, local produce, natural and organic meats, and Chef Sandoval’s signature Latin flavors. At the helm in RAYA is Chef Marissa Gerlach.
Chef Gerlach says, “Every product we use has a history, a story behind it. For instance, AquaFarm is a small local sustainable seafood farm in Southern California where I learned so much about how using locally grown seafood not only offers the guests a much tastier product, but it helps lessen our carbon footprint. Working with Chef Sandoval, I have become very fond of unique ingredients such as Togarashi, an Asian seven spice, Huitlacoche, a sweet fungus that grows on corn, and Pilonillo, which is unrefined Mexican cane sugar that is smoky, caramel-like, and earthy all in one. Each week, my goal is to pair an ingredient like one of these with a fresh, seasonal product to create a new and unique dish,” she added.
See more RAYA at The Ritz-Carlton, Laguna Niguel details
Chef Gerlach says, “Every product we use has a history, a story behind it. For instance, AquaFarm is a small local sustainable seafood farm in Southern California where I learned so much about how using locally grown seafood not only offers the guests a much tastier product, but it helps lessen our carbon footprint. Working with Chef Sandoval, I have become very fond of unique ingredients such as Togarashi, an Asian seven spice, Huitlacoche, a sweet fungus that grows on corn, and Pilonillo, which is unrefined Mexican cane sugar that is smoky, caramel-like, and earthy all in one. Each week, my goal is to pair an ingredient like one of these with a fresh, seasonal product to create a new and unique dish,” she added.
52 Current Reviews
Summary of Diner Ratings & Reviews
Overall
(Outstanding)
4.5
/
5
Rating Breakdown 52 reviews
5 stars
(36)
4 stars
(9)
3 stars
(4)
2 stars
(2)
1 star
(1)
Food
(Outstanding)
4.5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
4.6
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
4.4
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
Filter Reviews By:
Diners classify this restaurant as:
- scenic view(37)
- special occasion(36)
- romantic(26)
- fit for foodies(23)
- great for brunch(13)
- notable wine list(9)
RAYA at The Ritz-Carlton, Laguna Niguel Reviews List
Review 1 for RAYA at The Ritz-Carlton, Laguna Niguel
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"Food was delicious, view was unbelievable and service was great. We felt very relaxed and enjoyed the outdoor bar so much, they worked with our reservation time so we could stay outside at the bar for a while longer."
Dined on 6/15/2013
2013
Special Features: romantic, scenic view, hot spot, special occasion
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Review 2 for RAYA at The Ritz-Carlton, Laguna Niguel
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Great Food Great View
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Noise Level
Energetic
"The food is excellent (although a bit pricey), with top-notch service and you can't beat a right-on-the ocean view! I wouldn't go there every Sunday, because the fare is a bit exotic and pricey for brunch (although be aware you can ask for the lunch menu, which is ala carte and a lot less expensive) but for a special occasion, or to wow out-of-town guests, you can't beat it!"
Dined on 6/09/2013
Special Features: good for groups, great for brunch, scenic view, great for lunch, special occasion
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Review 3 for RAYA at The Ritz-Carlton, Laguna Niguel
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Noise Level
Quiet
"Amazing! Beautiful restaurant, warm and generous staff and excellent cuisine!"
Dined on 6/10/2013
Special Features: scenic view, neighborhood gem, special occasion
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Review 4 for RAYA at The Ritz-Carlton, Laguna Niguel
Overall rating
(Good)
3
/
5
Food
(Good)
3
/
5
Service
(Good)
3
/
5
Ambiance
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Noise Level
Quiet
"Very pricey-house "house wine" $14
Great views"
Great views"
Dined on 5/30/2013
Special Features: special occasion
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Review 5 for RAYA at The Ritz-Carlton, Laguna Niguel
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
The Experience
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Noise Level
Energetic
"I had been to the Ritz Carleton many years ago and was not suprised that it was still an elegant, but reaxing place to be with friends"
Dined on 5/26/2013
Special Features: great for outdoor dining, great for brunch, romantic, scenic view, neighborhood gem, great for lunch, special occasion
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Review 6 for RAYA at The Ritz-Carlton, Laguna Niguel
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Well Done!
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Noise Level
Energetic
"The Scallops with pork belly were excellent!
The service was just right...not too much but enough to let you know you were being well taken care of.
We were there to celebrate our nieces 21st birthday. The entire dinning experience was something she will never forget.
The lobster tacos alone were worth the visit.
While we have been to the Ritz Carlton Laguna Nigel many time since it opened in the 80's, this was our first time to Raya's.
It was a fantastic evening and we will be back again real soon."
The service was just right...not too much but enough to let you know you were being well taken care of.
We were there to celebrate our nieces 21st birthday. The entire dinning experience was something she will never forget.
The lobster tacos alone were worth the visit.
While we have been to the Ritz Carlton Laguna Nigel many time since it opened in the 80's, this was our first time to Raya's.
It was a fantastic evening and we will be back again real soon."
Dined on 5/25/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, notable wine list, special occasion
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Review 7 for RAYA at The Ritz-Carlton, Laguna Niguel
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Great experience!
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Noise Level
Quiet
"From the artful decor to the spectacular views of the coast, Raya is a truly great dining experience. Richard Sandoval has created a mouth watering menu with flavored that are memorable. The halibut is the best I have ever tasted! The New York strip is tender and perfectly grilled. Raya will be a regular in our book!"
Dined on 5/22/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, vibrant bar scene, romantic, notable wine list, special occasion
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Review 8 for RAYA at The Ritz-Carlton, Laguna Niguel
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Outstanding in every way
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Noise Level
Quiet
"Food, service, and elegance beyond expectations. Pricey but worth every penny. Will definitely return for special occasions."
Dined on 5/15/2013
Special Features: romantic, scenic view, notable wine list, special occasion
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Review 9 for RAYA at The Ritz-Carlton, Laguna Niguel
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Outstanding, as expected
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"Stunning restaurant, with superb service and outstanding food. This wasn't a surprise, given that it was the RItz. For the price and reputation, I expected perfection, and certainly received it. Gorgeous view of the ocean as the sun set."
Dined on 5/04/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, good for groups, romantic, scenic view, notable wine list, special occasion
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Review 10 for RAYA at The Ritz-Carlton, Laguna Niguel
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Perfect Brunch
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Noise Level
Quiet
"We had a wonderful table with a beautiful view, the food was excellent and the service was outstanding! Brunch was perfect!"
Dined on 5/05/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, great for brunch, scenic view
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Review 11 for RAYA at The Ritz-Carlton, Laguna Niguel
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Excellent dining experience
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Noise Level
Quiet
"Great evening provided to our group of three by the staff at Raya. Spectacular view and sunset, great food and a wonderful wine selection. Ask for the full scotch list if you want to have some. More selections there than what's listed on the dessert menu."
Dined on 5/01/2013
Special Features: good for groups, romantic, scenic view, special occasion
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Review 12 for RAYA at The Ritz-Carlton, Laguna Niguel
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
BW in Capo Beach
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Noise Level
Quiet
"This is one of most unique menus in Dana Point. The food choices are beyond expectation and the creativity of the chef is brilliant. Highly recommend repeat visits."
Dined on 04/26/2013
2007
Special Features: vibrant bar scene, fit for foodies, notable wine list, scenic view
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Review 13 for RAYA at The Ritz-Carlton, Laguna Niguel
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Outstanding cuisine and view
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Noise Level
Quiet
"We expected a fabulous view and middling meal, but we were surprised! The cuisine is as spectacular as the ocean view, and the service was impeccable. Chef Marissa designed a tasting menu especially for us, and we thoroughly enjoyed it. Marissa knows her way around a fish! Everything from appetizers to dessert was outstanding."
Dined on 04/13/2013
2006
Special Features: vibrant bar scene, fit for foodies, neighborhood gem, romantic, scenic view
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Review 14 for RAYA at The Ritz-Carlton, Laguna Niguel
Overall rating
(Very Good)
4
/
5
The food and service was very
Food
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Service
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Ambiance
(Fair)
2
/
5
Noise Level
Quiet
"The food and service was very good. But the air conditioning is set too high, far too cold!!"
Dined on 04/07/2013
2010
Special Features: fit for foodies, great for brunch, special occasion, scenic view
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Review 15 for RAYA at The Ritz-Carlton, Laguna Niguel
Overall rating
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Awesome place. Service could
Food
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Service
(Good)
3
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
"Awesome place. Service could be tad better."
Dined on 04/06/2013
2010
Special Features: notable wine list, romantic, special occasion, scenic view
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Review 16 for RAYA at The Ritz-Carlton, Laguna Niguel
Overall rating
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Dining at Raya for our anniversary
Food
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Service
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"Beautiful ambience and very creative food, very good! always love the atmosphere and fabulous view if you eat in Raya or outdoors when weather warms up!
DO have a comment on the music choice, not very enhancing to the mood, it was kind of pop music, hope they change that to some good jazz, classical or new age contemporary!
I will send them a note as well,"
DO have a comment on the music choice, not very enhancing to the mood, it was kind of pop music, hope they change that to some good jazz, classical or new age contemporary!
I will send them a note as well,"
Dined on 04/05/2013
2007
Special Features: vibrant bar scene, fit for foodies, good for groups, great for brunch, great for outdoor dining, special occasion, scenic view, hot spot
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Review 17 for RAYA at The Ritz-Carlton, Laguna Niguel
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Great Birthday
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"I made this reservation (after reading reviews about the restaurant) for my husbands 53rd birthday. I mentioned in the reservation that it was a birthday celebration, so they sat us at a table with a wonderful ocean view, said happy birthday, and had a nice birthday note on the table. Having never been here before, we were pleased with our menu selections and the complimentary birthday desert. We would go back again."
Dined on 03/29/2013
2013
Special Features: special occasion, scenic view
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Review 18 for RAYA at The Ritz-Carlton, Laguna Niguel
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Raya at Ritz Carlton never
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Noise Level
Energetic
"Raya at Ritz Carlton never fails if you want to impress yourself and your guests - the view is absolutely gorgeous and so is the food."
Dined on 03/25/2013
2011
Special Features: vibrant bar scene, fit for foodies, good for groups, neighborhood gem, notable wine list, romantic, special occasion, scenic view, hot spot
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Review 19 for RAYA at The Ritz-Carlton, Laguna Niguel
Overall rating
(Fair)
2
/
5
Huge Disappointment
Food
(Poor)
1
/
5
Service
(Fair)
2
/
5
Ambiance
(Poor)
1
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"Had high expectations, it's Ritz Carlton after all. Not so.
Dinner reservation @ 8pm, got seated 8:20pm.The hostess told us it'll be just a few mins. Therefore didn't go to the bar but waited at the lobby. Not how you want to start your "special" dining exp.
The room was basically a hallway divided by a decorative wall. No ambiance at all. Also, no music.
Service so-so. Once again, you'd expect service at RC to be impeccable.
Started with a wild mushroom and goat cheese flatbread. Delicious,
the highlight of the night. Had the seafood risotto. Seafood tough and small.
My HB's beet carpaccio flavorless. His scallop main course tough. Desert sampler unedible.
The heat lamp by the valet not on. Freezing for 10-15 mins. Not a good nigh"
Dinner reservation @ 8pm, got seated 8:20pm.The hostess told us it'll be just a few mins. Therefore didn't go to the bar but waited at the lobby. Not how you want to start your "special" dining exp.
The room was basically a hallway divided by a decorative wall. No ambiance at all. Also, no music.
Service so-so. Once again, you'd expect service at RC to be impeccable.
Started with a wild mushroom and goat cheese flatbread. Delicious,
the highlight of the night. Had the seafood risotto. Seafood tough and small.
My HB's beet carpaccio flavorless. His scallop main course tough. Desert sampler unedible.
The heat lamp by the valet not on. Freezing for 10-15 mins. Not a good nigh"
Dined on 03/16/2013
2012
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Review 20 for RAYA at The Ritz-Carlton, Laguna Niguel
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
It was a great surprise/choice
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Noise Level
Quiet
"It was a great surprise/choice of hubby to celebrate my birthday in a beautiful place like Raya. Even my 5 year old appreciated the ambience and the friendliness they've shown to him. Thanks Raya for such a memorable experience and hoping to spend more memories in this beautiful place and excellent staff."
Dined on 03/16/2013
2011
Special Features: fit for foodies, kid-friendly, romantic, special occasion, scenic view
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Review 21 for RAYA at The Ritz-Carlton, Laguna Niguel
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Outstanding food AND service
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Noise Level
Quiet
"Food and service was outstanding. We were there for a birthday celebration. A red rose on the table greeted us and dinner ended with a complimentary assorted dessert tray. It is so rare to eat at a restaurant where the wait staff understands the etiquette with respect to removing plates - wait for all in the party to finish and not ask to remove the plate when knife and for, are together - what a joy to finally find such a well trained wait staff. Outstanding meal with a wonderful ocean view. Raya has become our favorite restaurant in CA."
Dined on 03/12/2013
2009
Special Features: vibrant bar scene, fit for foodies, romantic, special occasion, scenic view
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Review 22 for RAYA at The Ritz-Carlton, Laguna Niguel
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
For an unforgettable evening try RA
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Noise Level
Energetic
"A fabulous Saturday evening at RAYA....we had an extraordinary evening largely in part due to our wonderful server, Elizabeth, who made the evening that much more special...the chef's daily soup creations are so incredible and once again I had the scallops and it is a dish not to be forgotten. How can you go wrong sitting in this elegant restaurant watching the golden sun set on the blue Pacific.....a MUST try fo all diners !!"
Dined on 02/23/2013
2007
Special Features: fit for foodies, special occasion, scenic view
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Review 23 for RAYA at The Ritz-Carlton, Laguna Niguel
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
superb service by the staff!
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Noise Level
Quiet
"superb service by the staff! Arranged a reservation for a larger party, and the night was great! Excellent ambience, delicious food, beautiful overall. Had a very memorable experience!"
Dined on 02/22/2013
2012
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Review 24 for RAYA at The Ritz-Carlton, Laguna Niguel
Overall rating
(Fair)
2
/
5
Don't waste your time
Food
(Poor)
1
/
5
Service
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Ambiance
(Poor)
1
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"What have they done to what was a beautiful ocean front dining room. It is now so ugly, cold, cheap looking. And the food is a joke. Each item has 10 ingredients - the most mixed up, weird combinations. And this review is from someone who has eaten all over the world. Place needs a new look and a new chef."
Dined on 02/20/2013
2012
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Review 25 for RAYA at The Ritz-Carlton, Laguna Niguel
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
It was our 10th year anniversary,
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Very Good)
4
/
5
"It was our 10th year anniversary, and they made it very special as they left rose peddles on the table prior to our seating.
Service, food, and attention was just awesome."
Service, food, and attention was just awesome."
Dined on 02/16/2013
2011
Special Features: special occasion, scenic view
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Ratings-Only Reviews for RAYA at The Ritz-Carlton, Laguna Niguel
Based on the average of (27) ratings-only reviews
Overall
(Outstanding)
4.4
/
5
5 out of 5 recommend this product
Food
(Outstanding)
4.5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
4.6
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
4.3
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate