Panoramic View: 180blũ, The Ritz Carlton | Laguna Niguel, CA

This was my first experience at a Ritz Carlton hotel, and I’m so glad it was at The Ritz Carlton, Laguna Niguel in Dana Point, California, which offers stunning 180 degree views of the Pacific Ocean.
180blũ is an oceanfront dining, Pan-Latin lounge located on the main floor of the Ritz Carlton hotel.  It is an outdoor lounge and terrace with spectacular pacific coastline views.

Below is a picture of the view from the terrace of 180blũ looking towards Laguna Beach.



An ideal time to visit 180blũ is in the afternoon when you can simultaneously enjoy the sun setting over the Pacific Ocean along with the cool ocean breeze. 



Complimentary Nuts:



Cocktails:
Passion Fruit Mojito (left): Prepared with Bacardi, passion fruit, mint and lime. The mojito was fruity, succulent and smooth. One of the best mojitos I’ve ever had.
Sangria (right): Another fruity cocktail prepared with sliced oranges, blueberries and raspberries. Light, refreshing and not overly sweet.


Appetizers:
Smoked Swordfish Tacos: Six crispy wonton shells filled with swordfish salad with a hint of spice topped with mango salsa and pickled jalapeno. Creamy, crunchy, tangy, and spicy tacos all in one bite were highly flavorsome. I loved the presentation of this dish and highly recommend it.
Hawaiian Ahi Tuna Ceviche: Ahi Tuna with jicama, red onion, cilantro, avocado, chilies, puffed rice all in a soy based flavored sauce. Although I am not a fan of raw fish, the Asian based sauce to go with the fish was very tasty and made this dish. The ceviche came with a side of plantain and yucca chips.

RESTAURANT REVIEW: 180blũ
COST: $$$
CUISINE: Pan-Latin, Latin American, Small Plates
FAVORITES: Passion Fruit Mojito | Smoked Swordfish Tacos
VERDICT: 4.25 / 5
If you’re looking for a ritzy place that offers breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean while enjoying a yummy cocktail and tasty appetizers, 180blũ is a must do. I’ve been to a few rooftop lounges in Orange County, and so far 180blũ has been the best experience with an unobstructed view. The service here is bit on the slow side, but you’ll quickly forget about that as you sit back, relax and absorb all that beauty. The drinks and small plates were all delicious, but my favorites were the Passion Fruit Mojito and Smoked Swordfish Tacos. Next time I visit, I would like to try the Chicken Nachos, Pulled Jidori Chicken Salad, and the Miso Alaskan Black Cod! Can’t wait!
Food: Excellent | Drinks: Excellent | Décor: Ocean/Sunset View | Service: Friendly/Helpful/Slow | Value: Good for the view

LOCATION    
The Ritz Carlton, Laguna Niguel
1 Ritz Carlton Drive, Dana Point, CA

Have you dined at The Ritz Carlton, Laguna Niguel? If so, which restaurant?