CELEBRATING THE END OF SUMMER: When does the close of the season arrive for you, either officially or unofficially? Do you bid the warm, be-outside ways of this time of year farewell when September is first sighted, or when the first crisp morning arrives? Or do you let Labor Day Weekend pass, and the equinox approach, before fully letting go of this lovely, sunshiny, good-eats time of year? These questions shouldn't bring stress, only the suggestion to continue to culinary ways of summer, and its alfresco-sweet character, for as long as possible. And one outdoor spot to stretch out the summer, with flavorful eats and beachy-breezy flair, is the Pacific Promenade Lawn. If you know the...
RITZ-CARLTON, LAGUNA NIGUEL, then you know this postcard-ready, brochure-beautiful spot, an airy space that keeps the Pacific in view. But all eyes, and definitely taste buds, will be trained up on the cuisine on the plates at this location on Friday, Sept. 8. That's the night of the Taste of Baja Food & Wine Experience, a one-evening-only affair devoted to the Pan-Latin coastal eats served at Raya, the resort's acclaimed dining room. Executive chef Brian Sundeen is behind the creation of the tasting dishes — think smaller bites, tapas-flair, and gourmet piquancy — and some 15 boutique wineries from the Baja region will be pouring some of their favorite vinos.
A TRIP TO MEXICO... is always in order, but if you can't get away just now, and you want to properly send off the summer, look to the season's penultimate Friday, to tapas and tacos, to the Pacific Promenade Lawn, and to Baja-born libations for your evening-long getaway. The time? It all starts at 6 o'clock. Want to reserve your spot? It's $95, and tax and tip are included. Call Resort Services now at 949-240-2000.
