The Riviera Maya, a paradise that draws travelers from around the world, caters to both luxury resort seekers and ecotourism enthusiasts eager to explore the jungle, sea, and cenotes of the Yucatán Peninsula. Culinary delights thrive here, from traditional southeastern cuisine to the freshest catches and an ever-evolving culinary scene. Taking this uniqueness to the next level, the Waldorf Astoria Cancún has crafted the Waldorf Astoria Culinary Passport—a series of gastronomic experiences featuring guest chefs from around the world.
This initiative arises from the growing demand for authentic and exceptional culinary experiences that celebrate regional traditions while fostering innovation and cross-cultural dialogue. In essence, it’s a palate-driven journey for guests and the general public alike. Each collaboration aims to showcase the culinary talent of select Waldorf Astoria destinations through a series of dinners led by executive chefs from the chain worldwide.
To kick off this gastronomic journey, Chef Gustavo Pinet traveled from Waldorf Astoria Los Cabos Pedregal in Cabo San Lucas. He presented a land-and-sea menu that bridged the gap between Mexico’s two peninsulas. Chef Pinet’s standout feature lies in his mastery of diverse culinary techniques, resulting in unconventional dishes like the scallop and screw snail tostada with birria foam and the apple fritter with plantain mole. Guests could choose between wine pairings or tequila-based cocktails specially crafted for the occasion by David Hernández, mixologist from Waldorf Astoria Los Cabos Pedregal.
Notably, the Waldorf Astoria Culinary Passport experiences extend beyond these dinners. While they serve as the main event, additional culinary activities are also available. For instance, this collaboration included tequila tastings with special pairings by David Hernández and a cooking class led by Chef Pinet.
Set against the luxurious backdrop of one of the finest high-end resorts on the Mexican Caribbean, these dinners take place at the Malpeque restaurant. Its open kitchen allows guests to witness the artistry behind each dish, while the terrace and expansive windows offer sublime sunset views of the sea. The next Waldorf Astoria Culinary Passport event is scheduled for August, so consider planning your visit early—seats are sure to fill up quickly!
Source: Food and Pleasure
