When you think of a Luxury All-Inclusive resort, culinary excellence may not be the first thing that comes to mind. That’s exactly what we set out to change.

At Grand Velas Riviera Maya, we’re proud to introduce Senses of Cuisine, an exclusive experience created to celebrate our Cocina de Autor restaurant, which has been honored with a Michelin Star for the second consecutive year. To mark this achievement and the Michelin Service Award, we designed a multi-sensory culinary journey that goes far beyond a traditional tasting menu.

Photo by Velas Resorts

A feast for the senses

This experience is more than just food; it’s an invitation to immerse yourself in a world where flavor meets creativity. Every moment is crafted to engage all five senses: savor signature dishes that awaken the palate, get hands-on in culinary workshops, admire the artistry behind each plate, breathe in the aromas of fresh ingredients, and enjoy intimate exchanges with world-class chefs.

As Executive Chef of Grand Velas Riviera Maya and head of Cocina de Autor, Chef Nahúm Velasco personally curated this journey to reflect our dedication to innovation and excellence. His background includes time spent at Geranium in Copenhagen, and he’s proud to share the techniques, stories, and vision behind every dish with our guests.

Photo by Velas Resorts

Cook, learn, and connect

Over your three-night stay, you’ll join Chef Velasco or one of our consulting chefs—like Mikel Alonso or Bruno Oteiza—in private, interactive classes. These sessions offer more than recipes: they’re about understanding the artistry, balance, and intention behind every bite. Together, we’ll prepare signature dishes from Cocina de Autor’s Michelin-awarded menu, blending technique with tradition.

This isn’t just a class, it’s an invitation to connect with the heart of our kitchen and the story of our cuisine.

Exceptional dining and unique tastings

One of the most memorable moments of the journey is, of course, dinner at Cocina de Autor. Here, a multi-course tasting menu showcases Mexico’s rich culinary heritage through locally sourced ingredients and thoughtful wine pairings, including rare vintages carefully selected to complement each course.

Another highlight is our Meliponario honey tasting, located next to our sanctuary for the native Maya Melipona Bee. Chef Velasco will guide you through regional honey varieties, paired with artisanal cheeses and his homemade mead. It’s a uniquely sensorial experience that connects taste and tradition.

Photo by Velas Resorts

Raise a glass to creativity

Our Mocktail & Mixology Class adds a vibrant twist to the experience. You’ll craft both spirited and alcohol-free cocktails using premium ingredients, colorful fruits, and fresh herbs. The sounds of muddling and shaking, the scent of citrus and basil—it all comes together in a fun, interactive session designed to inspire your inner mixologist.

This is more than a getaway; it’s a celebration of gastronomy, designed for those who appreciate creativity, flavor, and unforgettable experiences.

Whether you’re passionate about food or simply want to discover something extraordinary, Senses of Cuisine invites you to experience the essence of what we do best at Grand Velas Riviera Maya.