I showed you the fabulous hotel I visited in California recently.  But, I didn’t show you the fabulous restaurant I visited IN the fabulous hotel!  For today’s Friday field trip, we are visiting Raya!

I almost didn’t make it to Raya (the fabulous restaurant) because I was on a work trip and I didn’t have a speck of free time.  But, you know what?  When the assignment was completed, I had about an hour to spare while I waited for my transportation to arrive. I decided to use that time to grab a pre-flight snack at the restaurant I had wanted to visit the entire time I was at the hotel!

Poblano, garlic, goat cheese, and white soy – the start of my Zucchini Flower Soup served tableside at Raya in the Ritz-Carlton Laguna Niguel.

I wasn’t even really sure if the food was any good at this restaurant – which I assumed it was based on the rest of my experience at the Ritz-Carlton Laguna Niguel.  But, what I did know about this restaurant was that it had an amazing view!  I had walked past it (usually, very much in a hurry) so many times while at the hotel!

I just wanted to sit in Raya at one of the tables with the ocean view!  And, that is exactly what I did on my last day at the Ritz, minutes before I was set to leave my new favorite hotel!

You can see more photos of the fabulous Ritz-Carlton Laguna Niguel by clicking here.

Thanks for stopping by for today’s Friday field trip!

Remember to take pleasure in simple things, Jackie

P.S.  The food was good and I was also able to share the experience with two great people!  Enjoy your weekend!