From WeHo to Mexico: Andaz Mayakoba Riviera Maya Media Dinner

(Images: Ruksana Hussain)

Select invited Los Angeles media members were in attendance at the recently held Andaz West Hollywood dinner spotlighting the brand’s Andaz Mayakoba Resort Riviera Maya with a ‘From Mexico to Andaz’-themed media dinner. The seated dinner showcased creative culinary and immersive cultural experiences from Mexico and Andaz Mayakoba, sharing more about the luxury Mexican resort and its sister property, Andaz West Hollywood. 

Media guests learned about artisanal mezcal from Oaxaca and the protective powers of alebrijes handcrafted from copal wood.

The intimate event included a joint, multicourse menu between the two properties with Mexican-inspired cuisine, a mixology demonstration, vibrant art, authentic cultural gifts and more. Starting with a cocktail reception at the Riot House restaurant located in the lobby level of Andaz West Hollywood, the dinner celebrated authentic Mexican culture and cuisine with specially crafted cocktails for the occasion and a beautifully decorated tablescape. 

Lobster zucchini blossoms from the local farmers market with a matcha and lobster emulsion.

Local brand Mezcal Amaras was highlighted as was local artist Angélico Jimenez whose alebrijes (brightly colored Mexican folk-art sculptures of fantastical (fantasy/mythical) creatures) were part of the tablescape. Jimenez was also present to talk about the fabulous wood carved pieces, the detail that goes into each intricately fashioned work of art and the meaningful symbolism behind the colors and patterns. 

Beetroot and burrata with celery root puree and charred leaves.

The chefs from Andaz Mayakoba were Chef Miguel Gomez (Executive Chef) and Chef Omar Barquera (Chef de Cuisine) and they teamed up with Andaz WeHo culinary staff who set out to treat guests to quite the delicious meal starting with beef tongue tacos and lobster zucchini squash blossoms, followed by a colorful beetroot salad with burrata cheese and baked conchiglionis, and a mole de olla entrée. 

The cutest baked conchiglionis in keeping with the WeHo music theme. You'll have to visit to know what that means!

Dessert service featuring bunuelo al viento followed in the penthouse, accompanied by breathtaking panoramic views of the Los Angeles skyline. The penthouse is a unique offering of the property, furnished to the nines to fully indulge in living in the heart of Hollywood. All guests left with a bag of souvenirs created by local and regional artisans, as part of the Hyatt Loves Local initiative to help local communities. 

Cream puff fritters with a mezcal pastry cream and white cocoa ice cream to end the night.

​Andaz Mayakoba will turn five this year and is a fairly new Hyatt property. It is a secluded paradise on the beachfront, surrounded by mangrove and lagoons. From the design of the rooms and suites to the bathroom amenities, various dining options available on-site and daily activities to choose from (including an eco-cruise), and the 10,000-square-foot hideway spa, every detail has been taken into consideration to ensure a wellness and nature-connected experience.

Beautiful locally handcrafted gifts that are part of the Hyatt Loves Local initiative to help local communities.