These Two Events Honor Life and Tradition With Innovative Menus and Ocean Views
In the spirit of DĆa de Los Muertos, The Ritz-Carlton, Laguna Niguel invites Orange County locals and visitors to experience a fusion of culture, cuisine and coastal luxury this fall with two exceptional culinary events. Perched along the cliffs in Dana Point, the resortās RAYA restaurant will play host to TĆ© de Los Muertos, a unique afternoon tea experience, and a spectacular DĆa de Los Muertos Dinner. Both of these October events in Orange County will celebrate DĆa de Los Muertos in a way that only The Ritz-Carlton, Laguna Niguel can offer.
TĆ© de Los Muertos: A Spirited Take on Afternoon Tea
From Oct. 1-31, guests are invited to enjoy a twist on a timeless tradition with TĆ© de Los Muertos. This elegant afternoon tea offers breathtaking ocean views and a carefully curated menu that honors the spirit of DĆa de Los Muertos. RAYAās Executive Chef Irving Nunez crafted a creative assortment of savory tea sandwiches and indulgent sweets, presented with the sophistication The Ritz-Carlton brand is known for.
The menu features dishes like the Taco Salad Tomato Basil Tartlet, filled with roasted corn and queso panela, and a playful take on a classic, the Deviled Egg BLT. For those craving a bit of sweetness, the dessert offerings are nothing short of exquisite. A trio of accompaniments, including Devonshire cream and lemon curd, elevates traditional scones. A Salted Caramel Flan Cream Puff and Chocolate Calavera add a whimsical, festive touch. The menu captures the spirit of remembrance, with dishes subtly nodding to the vibrant traditions of DĆa de Los Muertos.
Meanwhile, for those seeking something stronger than tea, the boozy tea-infused cocktail menu provides an avant-garde twist. Sip on a Catrina Nocturna, a concoction of Noche de Luna Sotol, activated charcoal, Amaro Montenegro, lychee puree and Campari. Or, enjoy the zesty flavors of the Nectar de Luz. This drink blends Limoncello, jasmine green tea, honey syrup and fresh lemon juice.
Resort guests and locals can enjoy TĆ© de Los Muertos, a perfect chance to slow down and savor seasonal flavors. Guests can reserve seats Monday through Thursday at 2 p.m. and 2:30 p.m., and reservations are highly recommended.
Price: $115 per person, $95 for children (ages 3-9)
Dates: October 1-31, Monday through Thursday
Reservations: Available via OpenTable
DĆa de Los Muertos Dinner: A Culinary Celebration
On the evening of Nov. 1, the celebration continues with an extraordinary DĆa de Los Muertos Dinner at RAYA. Guest chef Richard Sandoval and Chef Irving Nunez craft the special five-course pre-fixe menu, highlighting traditional flavors. They expertly prepare and artfully present each dish, creating a memorable dining experience.
The evening begins with Empanadas de Langosta. Tender lobster and sweet corn are encased in squid ink masa and drizzled with a spicy chile de Ɣrbol sauce. Next, the menu ventures into rich territory. Expect dishes like Black Enmoladas, featuring duck carnitas wrapped in mole negro and finished with a tangy horseradish crema. For the main course, guests can choose between two showstoppers: the Filete en Salsa Negra, a Mishima Reserve Wagyu steak paired with butternut squash and three-chile gastrique, or the Steamed Black Cod, bathed in a delicate hoja santa nage and served with pipian colorado.
The evening closes on a sweet note with Million de Recuerdos. This dessert is a butter pecan corn cake with blood peach, passion compote and anejo rum ice cream. Additionally, guests are invited to bring photos of their departed loved ones to be honored on the ofrenda.
The DĆa de Los Muertos Dinner promises an evening of culinary excellence and cultural celebration. Enjoy live entertainment and the glow of candlelit tables set against the Pacific Ocean.
Price: $150 per person, $75 for children (ages 3-9), complimentary for children under 2
Date: Nov. 1 at 6:00 PM
Reservations: Available via OpenTable
Both TĆ© de Los Muertos and the DĆa de Los Muertos Dinner at The Ritz-Carlton, Laguna Niguel offer guests the opportunity to experience the rich cultural heritage of DĆa de Los Muertos in a setting as unforgettable as the holiday itself. With ocean views, a tradition-inspired menu, and Ritz-Carlton luxury, these Orange County events are unforgettable.
Enjoy tea with a twist or a five-course culinary journey, celebrating flavors both past and present.
Reserve now and experience this timeless tradition, reimagined at The Ritz-Carlton, Laguna Niguel!
The Ritz-Carlton, Laguna Niguel
One Ritz-Carlton Dr
Dana Point, CA 92629
949.240.2000
This article is brought to you by one of the many talented writers associated with Locale Magazine! We are a group of locals (whether born and raised or transplanted) who love this county we now call home!
