Travel
Michelin Stars & Mexico Dreams
Rosewood Mayakoba will welcome two of Colorado’s most celebrated culinary voices for a dynamic “Fall Break” activation: Chef Johnny Curiel, Chef/Owner of One MICHELIN Star Alma Fonda Fina and Mezcaleria Alma – named one of The New York Times’ 50 Best Restaurants in America and one of Bon Appetit’s 20 Best New Restaurants in 2025– along with Jen Mattioni, Beverage Director of Fonda Fina Hospitality. Together, the duo will bring their award-winning talent and Colorado energy to the Riviera Maya through a series of extraordinary guest-only dining experiences from October 16-17.
A Weekend of Inspired Collaborations
Beachside Taste-Around, Thursday, October 16
Guests will experience an evening of culinary exploration by the sea, with Curiel presenting signature dishes alongside the resort’s team, complemented by Mattioni’s agave-focused cocktail creations and live entertainment.
Private In-Villa Dinner, Friday, October 17
Chef Johnny Curiel will collaborate with the resort’s culinary team for an intimate and highly curated, small-group dining experience. Guests will arrive by electric boat to an expansive private residence, where the open-air terrace offers sweeping views of the serene lagoon. Together, Chef Curiel and the resort’s culinary team will craft a soulful, family-style feast inspired by Mexican heritage, contemporary technique, and Curiel’s nationally acclaimed cuisine. This exclusive and unforgettable evening offers a rare opportunity for 1:1 interaction with Chef Curiel, while fostering a sense of community and connection among guests.
Zapote Bar Takeover, Friday, October 17
Recently recognized among the 50 Best Bars in North America, Zapote will host Jen Mattioni behind the bar for a one-night-only cocktail experience. Known for leading the bar programs across Fonda Fina Hospitality’s four Colorado concepts—Alma Fonda Fina, Mezcaleria Alma, Cozobi Fonda Fina, and Alteño—Mattioni is celebrated for her agave-forward, technique-driven cocktails that have earned her a reputation as one of Denver’s top beverage talents.
La Isla Secreta Mixology Class, Friday, October 17
Mattioni will lead a hands-on mixology class at La Isla Secreta, the resort’s private, adults-only speakeasy. Nestled on a secluded island within the resort and accessible only by boat via a token from Zapote Bar, this exclusive enclave offers a bespoke cocktail experience in an intimate setting amid lush mangroves.
Spotlight on Colorado Talent
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Johnny Curiel has quickly become one of the most exciting names in American dining. His restaurant, Alma Fonda Fina in Denver, was awarded One MICHELIN Star, named a James Beard Best New Restaurant Finalist (2025), and recognized among Esquire Magazine’s Best Restaurants in America (2024). His restaurant, Mezcaleria Alma was recently named one of The New York Times’ 50 Best Restaurants in America and one of Bon Appetit’s 20 Best New Restaurants in 2025. Personally, Curiel was honored as Esquire Magazine’s Rising Star of the Year (2024) and MICHELIN Colorado’s Young Chef of the Year (2024). His soulful, contemporary interpretations of Mexican cuisine have been met with national acclaim, blending authenticity, artistry, and storytelling.
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Jen Mattioni, Beverage Director of Fonda Fina Hospitality, oversees the cocktail programs at the group’s four celebrated Colorado concepts. With more than two decades of experience, she is renowned for her agave-forward programs, her collaborative approach, and her reputation for crafting Denver’s most compelling agave cocktails. At Rosewood Mayakoba, Mattioni will bring that expertise to Zapote, creating a bespoke menu that bridges Colorado creativity with Riviera Maya spirit.
Rosewood Mayakoba: The Ultimate “Fall Break” Destination
This activation highlights Rosewood Mayakoba’s growing reputation as a premier “Fall Break” destination, where guests can combine luxury travel with one-of-a-kind cultural and culinary experiences. Set on 620 acres of lush lagoons, mangroves, and white-sand beaches, the resort continues to offer dynamic programming that connects global talent with the spirit of Mexico.
“We’re thrilled to welcome two of Colorado’s brightest culinary stars to the Riviera Maya,” said Chef Edgar Chavez, Executive Chef at Rosewood Mayakoba. “We can’t wait to bring the flavors of the Rockies together with the vibrant tastes of the Yucatán to celebrate the spirit of both regions through memorable and immersive experiences for our guests.”
“Hosting Johnny and Jen is an opportunity to blend the warmth of Mexico’s rich hacienda culture with the essence of Rockies living, bringing playful and elevated twists to our cocktails and hospitality,” said Ricardo Bobadilla, Bar Manager at Rosewood Mayakoba. “Guests can unwind with crafted cocktails, participate in hands-on mixology, and savor the ultimate fall escape at Rosewood Mayakoba.”
