Our Picks: La Cabaña de Raya

Published 9:00 am Thursday, March 7, 2024

As the sunset spreads red and orange hues across the waterfront view of La Cabaña de Raya on Youngs Bay, guests enjoy authentic Mexican cuisine.

Owners Miguel and Leticia Raya opened the family-owned restaurant 13 years ago. Since then, they have gained continued recognition and a local following. Alex Raya, the son of the owners, continues to manage the restaurant’s daily operations.

La Cabaña de Raya prides itself on its fresh, made-from-scratch ingredients, including homemade corn tortillas.

Dishes are made to order and range from traditional items like birria, gorditas, burritos, sopes and enchiladas to fusion Mexican-American dishes like nacho fries, Mexican pizza and french fry burritos. Appetizers include pico de gallo, bean dip, guacamole and ceviche.

The Raya family occasionally makes homemade tamales on Saturdays, announced ahead of time online — and this special dish sells out quickly.

Most menu items can be customized to be vegetarian or vegan, offering soy-based chorizo as a protein option.

Nonalcoholic drinks include agua fresca, soda and sangria, while alcoholic beverages include micheladas, margaritas, piña coladas and Mexican beers.

The restaurant offers outdoor seating on its deck right at the edge of Youngs Bay off U.S. Highway 101. A windscreen and umbrellas make the outdoor dining experience pleasant for guests, especially on bright, sunny days with a light breeze off the water.

La Cabaña de Raya also offers indoor dining and takeout options for lunch and dinner throughout the year, with traditional decorations on the walls and music to set the ambiance.

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