Raya - Dana Point

First, the hostess was amazing and brought us in although I had no reservation. Within a minute of us our server was there and right after we had drinks (our se... read more First, the hostess was amazing and brought us in although I had no reservation. Within a minute of us our server was there and right after we had drinks (our server was great all the time). Definitely the shrimp as an appetizer. Everything was really good, and the view was fantastic. We will definitely come back.

Spectacular views, fine food, pretty good service — A bunch of servers served only 4 couples in the entire restaurant on a weekday evening. Raya at the Ritz-Car... read more Spectacular views, fine food, pretty good service — A bunch of servers served only 4 couples in the entire restaurant on a weekday evening. Raya at the Ritz-Carlton is an ocean-view restaurant from chef Richard Sandoval. It has yummy sea bass and salad; we also asked for sweet potato fries that was not on the menu but offered at the other restaurant. The best part of eating at Raya for me is the incredible view, watching nearly 50 people surfing and riding waves!!

The food at the restaurant was average, but the service and the view were absolutely stunning! Unfortunately, nothing I tried really resonated with me. The Brus... read more The food at the restaurant was average, but the service and the view were absolutely stunning! Unfortunately, nothing I tried really resonated with me. The Brussels sprouts were decent, though not exceptional, and I was somewhat let down by the lack of flavor in such a beautiful hotel. My friend added jalapeños, cheese, and hot sauce to the crab potatoes, and that combination truly made my heart happy! If a dish isn’t delicious, it should be made delicious! I’d recommend checking out another restaurant (which is only open on Fridays) for a better selection, or exploring some local spots in the area. Often, these small, local places are the best, especially when you can tell the grandparents are in the kitchen! With that said, it’s a great place for cocktails! I’d recommend saving the cooking and eating for Grandma. I give it 4 stars for the view and service!

This place offers delicious lunch(11 am 2 pm), afternoon food (2 pm 4 pm), and dinner options. You do not need to be a guest of the hotel to enjoy the Raya rest... read more This place offers delicious lunch(11 am 2 pm), afternoon food (2 pm 4 pm), and dinner options. You do not need to be a guest of the hotel to enjoy the Raya restaurant. Going to the Ritz is always a good experience. Ask for a table by a window and marvel at the views while you enjoy an impeccable meal. The service is always top notch if not every employee, then most. I want to give a huge thank you to Shekinah and Sue especially for making the 'already amazing ' experience that much better. Chris was my server and he was very attentive and courteous. His recommendations were spot on. Great cocktail and good presentation food. Overall, The service was perfect, Views were heavenly. Food lacked the Ritz reputation but was still pretty good.

Celebrated early Mother 's Day last Saturday. First rate food, service and views! Very rare these days. I had Ceasar salad with shrimp, then there was one steak... read more Celebrated early Mother 's Day last Saturday. First rate food, service and views! Very rare these days. I had Ceasar salad with shrimp, then there was one steak dish and one hamburger dish with lots of instructions from my daughter. Waiter handled all special requests like a pro and they were all correct. Not sure how pricey as I was being hosted, however, some of the menu prices seemed very reasonable to me for this venue. In addition our waiter knowing we were celebrating brought us complimentary desserts that were standouts! Thanks to all.