Velas Resorts Press Room

Puerto Vallarta Culinary Talent Brings Expertise to Lead Prestigious Resort's Emiliano Restaurant, Taú Beach Club & Group Catering

Puerto Vallarta, Mexico (June 26, 2025) - Casa Velas, an adults-only luxury boutique hotel in Puerto Vallarta, proudly announces the appointment of Sandra Macías as Executive Chef. In her new role, she will oversee the resort's signature Emiliano Restaurant and exclusive Taú Beach Club as well as the hotel's group catering for meetings, weddings, and events. This promotion recognizes her exceptional culinary talent and six years of dedicated service within the Velas Resorts family, renowned for its culinary excellence across Mexico.

Originally from Durango, Chef Macías brings over 10 years of culinary expertise shaped by her professional journey in León, Guanajuato and refined through her commitment to excellence in Puerto Vallarta's dynamic gastronomic scene. Chef Macías joined Velas Resorts in 2019 and has demonstrated remarkable growth - beginning as dinner lead at sister property Velas Vallarta's Andrea Restaurant, advancing to Sous Chef at Tau Beach Club, and now ascending to Executive Chef at Casa Velas. Her culinary philosophy centers on creativity and experimentation, with a particular focus on Mexican-Italian fusion cuisine. Her signature style combines fresh, local ingredients with techniques that honor both her Mexican heritage and international culinary training from the Gastronomic Institute Corbusé. 

As Executive Chef, Macías will showcase the resort's commitment to using fresh, organic, and local ingredients while highlighting the culinary strengths of the Mexican region - from fresh seafood to regional specialties. The restaurant recently debuted new menus featuring locally-influenced dishes like marlin stew with chipotle chili and green tomatoes; Shrimp Aguachile with mango sauce, basil, onion, cucumber, and avocado; Mushroom Ceviche with soy and avocado mousse; octopus sopes, and the distinctive quesadillas with locally grown Hoja Santa, cheese, and squash blossoms.

Rates at Casa Velas begin at $305 USD per adult, per night, based on double occupancy. Luxury accommodations, gourmet meals, premium liquor and wine, use of the fitness center facilities, WIFI, taxes, and gratuities are included in the nightly rate. For more information, please call 1-888-407-4869 or visit https://www.hotelcasavelas.com/.

About Casa Velas:

Casa Velas is a luxury all-inclusive boutique hotel for adults only in Puerto Vallarta. Reminiscent of a Spanish hacienda, the hotel features 80 spacious suites, some with private pools and Jacuzzis. Nestled on the greens of Marina Vallarta's 18-hole golf course, this Puerto Vallarta hotel offers guests a 25% discount on green fees. Casa Velas' guests have beach access at Táu Beach Club, a relaxed atmosphere overlooking the ocean with infinity pool, delectable cuisine, and event space. ABJA Spa encompasses treatment rooms for singles and couples, a hydrotherapy area, garden-view fitness center, and a beauty salon. Emiliano restaurant is in the hands of one of the area's leading chefs serving Mexican and international cuisine. Casa Velas' concierge, a member of the prestigious Les Clefs d'Or, forges connections with locals and immerses travelers in the rich tapestry of Mexican culture in accordance with individual preferences and interests. Casa Velas was built by Eduardo Vela Ruiz, founder of Velas Resorts, with brother Juan Vela Ruiz, vice president of Velas Resorts, by his side. For reservations or more information please or visit hotelcasavelas.com. Explore tips, recipes, lifestyle and travel trends, and the latest news about Velas Resorts on the digital mag: www.velasmagazine.com.