Now here’s something new and special for you foodies. How would you like to go behind the scenes with a Michelin star chef and learn about the creative process? Participate in an interactive workshop on the presentation of any dish, where the Chef shares practical tips and creative insights? Then feast on a seven course menu with paired wines and an oh so elegant cocktail party to experience the real deal? That’s all in store at “The Essence of Cocina de Autor” culinary getaway at the AAA Five Diamond Grand Velas Riviera Nayarit in Mexico April 9 -11, 2026.

Leading the event will be Chef Francisco Sixtos of Grand Velas Los Cabos’ MICHELIN-starred Cocina de Autor restaurant who will work hand in hand with Chef Guillaume Morancé, Executive Chef of Grand Velas Riviera Nayarit and member of the Association des Maîtres Cuisiniers de France. This celebration brings the awarded flavors of Baja California to Mexico’s Pacific Coast. The intimate three-day experience, included in the resort’s nightly rate, celebrates the artistry and innovation of some of Mexico’s finest cuisine through interactive workshops, signature tastings, and memorable dining experiences.

Thursday, April 9: The Best of Bites Welcome Cocktail
The event launches with an elegant beachside reception. Guests will enjoy interactive canapé stations featuring signature creations from Chef Sixtos and Chef Morancé, paired with artisanal mixology inspired by Cocina de Autor’s most representative dishes. The evening will showcase selections from Casa Madero, Mexico’s oldest winery, complementing the culinary offerings.

Friday, April 10: Culinary Artistry Unveiled
The day begins with “Best of The Plate,” an interactive workshop led by Chef Morancé exploring the visual elements that define haute cuisine. During the session, Chef Morancé will guide participants through professional techniques to elevate the presentation of any dish, sharing practical tips and creative insights. Guests will take an active role in the experience, applying what they’ve learned in a friendly, hands-on challenge designed to showcase their skills and creativity.

In the evening, a dinner celebrating the “Best of Cocina de Autor” features a seven-course menu of the restaurant’s most iconic dishes presented as part of its creative legacy will be paired with Casa Madero wines.

Saturday, April 11: Inside the Creative Process
At 11 AM, “Behind the Best” offers an intimate conversation where both Chef Sixtos and Chef Morancé share the inspiration, stories, and secrets behind their most memorable creations. The conversation will follow a Q&A format where attendees are invited to actively participate, asking questions about their journey, creative process, inspirations, and behind-the-scenes moments that have shaped their culinary evolution. That evening, another “Best of Cocina de Autor” is offered for additional guests.

Limited availability ensures an exclusive and personalized experience for all attendees. For more information about the hotel, the event,  or to make a reservation, please visit https://vallarta.grandvelas.com.

About Grand Velas Riviera Nayarit:

The AAA Five Diamond Grand Velas Riviera Nayarit enjoys a privileged setting with flowering gardens beside a long stretch of walkable beach and a dramatic backdrop of the Sierra Madre mountains in Puerto Vallarta. The resort features 267 suites, many with ocean-views and some with private outdoor jacuzzis. Of the resort’s six restaurants, four, serving French, Italian, Asian and Mexican gourmet cuisine, have received AAA Four Diamond awards for distinguished cuisine and presentation. With treatments inspired by the native traditions of Mexico and a signature Water Ceremony, SE Spa is rated Five Stars by Forbes Travel Guide. Other features include a three-tiered pool, fitness center, 24/7 in-suite service, water sports, tennis and pickleball courts, Baby Concierge, new expansive Kids’ Club with indoor and outdoor areas, toddler pool, and state-of-the-art Teens’ Club. The All-Inclusive resort in the Riviera Nayarit features more than 15,064 square feet of indoor meeting facilities. Velas Resorts was built by Eduardo Vela Ruiz, Founding President of Velas Resorts.  Juan Vela Ruiz is Chief Executive Officer of the company. For reservations or additional information please visit vallarta.grandvelas.com. Explore tips, recipes, lifestyle and travel trends, and the latest news about Velas Resorts on the digital mag: www.velasmagazine.com.