Velas Resorts Welcomes Guest Chefs for Puerto Vallarta's Festival Gourmet International 2026
Velas Resorts is set to shine during the 31st edition of the Festival Gourmet International 2026. This prestigious culinary event draws food enthusiasts from around the world to Puerto Vallarta and Riviera Nayarit. With three distinct properties—Grand Velas Riviera Nayarit, Velas Vallarta, and Casa Velas—Velas Resorts offers guests a unique opportunity to experience gourmet dining like never before.
Each property features a renowned guest chef who curates special menus, enriching your stay with unforgettable flavors. These culinary experiences are included in the All-Inclusive rate, ensuring every bite is an extraordinary journey.
A culinary celebration at Grand Velas Riviera Nayarit
At Grand Velas Riviera Nayarit, guest chef Andrés Fernándes León will take center stage from November 13th to 15th. He will present a six-course tasting menu at the elegant Piaf restaurant. Fernándes León is the founder of the Cascajal restaurant in Bogotá, Colombia. His culinary philosophy blends French techniques with local Colombian ingredients.
For the festival, he will honor French gastronomy, the foundation of his culinary training. His impressive background includes training at Ferrandi Paris and working in MICHELIN-starred kitchens such as Château Les Crayères and Lasserre. The tasting menu for outside guests is priced at $150 USD per person, with wine pairing available for an additional fee.
Highlights from the Tasting Menu:
- Appetizer: Fresh seafood with a delicate touch of lime.
- Main Course: Slow-cooked duck, served with seasonal vegetables.
- Dessert: A classic French delight with a modern twist.
Chef Cristian Cupul of Grand Velas will also participate, showcasing the resort's commitment to excellence. The festival promises to be a true feast for the senses, blending creativity and tradition.
Gastronomic delights at Velas Vallarta
Velas Vallarta will also host guest chef Victor Howard from November 13th to 22nd. His menu will feature innovative dishes that highlight local flavors. Guests can indulge in a range of appetizers, main courses, and desserts, all crafted with the utmost care.
Notable appetizers include Pork Belly Ravioli and Beet Tartare, each offering a unique taste experience. For mains, a 12-hour smoked brisket and Texas-style barbecue will delight meat lovers. Desserts like Jericaya and Mezcalero's Bone Marrow promise to tantalize every palate.
Cooking class experience
Guests can engage further in culinary arts through a special cooking class during the festival. Here, they will learn to prepare pork belly lollipops under the guidance of Chef Howard. This interactive experience allows guests to connect with the region's culinary traditions.
The festival's closing event, BBQ & Wine, will be a remarkable experience. It will take place on the beach, overlooking the stunning sunset. Attendees can enjoy live grilling by Chef Howard and his team, who are world champions in barbecue. The event will feature over 30 wines and a variety of cocktails.
Key Features of the Velas Vallarta Dining Experience:
- Exclusive menus: Specially designed by renowned chefs.
- Interactive cooking class: Learn and create alongside skilled chefs.
- Beachfront events: Enjoy culinary delights against the backdrop of the ocean.
- Wine pairing options: Enhance your meal with curated wine selections.
- Innovative dishes: Experience local ingredients in unexpected ways.
Casa Velas: An intimate culinary journey
At Casa Velas, guest chef Nahúm Velasco will present a unique six-course menu from November 13th to 22nd at the Táu Beach Club. Velasco, currently the Creative Gastronomic Director at Grand Velas Riviera Maya, brings a wealth of experience and creativity to the table. His menu will feature dishes inspired by Cocina de Autor, the Michelin-starred restaurant, along with exclusive creations crafted for this event.
The menu opens with refreshing tuna served with pistachio and passion fruit purée. A rich tortilla soup with pickled mussels follows, setting the stage for the catch of the day with green pipián. The beef tenderloin, paired with piquillo pepper purée and garlic cheese, offers a hearty option.
Exclusive menu highlights:
- Vegetarian option: The Milpa in Pipián—a celebration of vegetables.
- Dessert: Cereal for Dinner—a playful twist on sweet endings.
- Seasonal ingredients: Focus on freshness and local produce.
- Elegant presentation: Each dish is a work of art.
- Culinary storytelling: Each course tells a story of culture and flavor.
Chef Velasco's dedication to refined techniques and creativity reflects the essence of Velas Resorts. His background includes training in Mexico City and international experience in Copenhagen. This culinary journey promises an intimate yet exhilarating experience, perfectly aligned with the festival's spirit.
Embracing the Festival Gourmet Internacional 2026
The Festival Gourmet Internacional 2026 is not just a culinary event; it is a celebration of culture, tradition, and innovation. With over 25 host restaurants and more than 50 chefs participating, this festival promises diverse flavors and extraordinary dining experiences.
Guests at Velas Resorts can expect personalized service and exceptional cuisine that highlights the best of local and international influences. The event connects food lovers with chefs who are passionate about their craft, creating a unique atmosphere that fosters exploration and enjoyment.
What guests can look forward to:
- All-Inclusive dining: Culinary masterpieces included in your stay.
- Diverse culinary events: A variety of dining formats and styles.
- Chef interactions: Opportunities to learn from industry leaders.
- Cultural experiences: Engage with local traditions through food.
- Memorable moments: Create lasting memories with loved ones.
Velas Resorts stands ready to welcome you to an unforgettable culinary adventure. The Festival Gourmet Internacional 2026 offers an unparalleled opportunity to savor exquisite dishes while enjoying the beauty of Puerto Vallarta and Riviera Nayarit.
Indulge in the luxury of Velas Resorts, where every moment is crafted with care. Experience the exceptional dining, world-class service, and the beauty of the Mexican coast. Join us for an extraordinary culinary journey that transcends the ordinary and embraces the extraordinary.