Our Anniversary Dinner at Cocina de Autor, Grand Velas Riviera Maya by Diana
A Michelin-Star Experience Worth Every Bite
For our 7-year wedding anniversary, my husband and I wanted to do something special, and wow, did Cocina de Autor at Grand Velas Riviera Maya deliver. This was truly one of the most memorable dining experiences of our lives… elegant, creative, and absolutely unforgettable.
If you’re staying at Grand Velas Riviera Maya (or planning to), do yourself a favor and book Cocina de Autor as soon as you confirm your trip. This Michelin-star restaurant fills up fast, we made our reservation about a month in advance and I’m so glad we did.
Reservations, Hours & Dress Code
Cocina de Autor is located in the Grand Class building, which was extra convenient because that’s where we were staying. The restaurant is open daily from 6:00–11:00 p.m., and our 7:00 p.m. reservation was perfect… just enough time to enjoy the full experience without rushing.
A few things to keep in mind:
There’s a 48-hour cancellation policy, and you’ll be charged 850 pesos per person if you cancel late.
The dress code is formal/elegant- long pants for men are mandatory. No shorts, flip-flops, gym clothes, or beachwear.
Minimum age is 12 years old, so it’s perfect for date nights or special adult celebrations.
This dinner is part of your all-inclusive stay, which is absolutely wild considering the quality. Grand Velas is the only all-inclusive resort brand with two Michelin-starred restaurants (Los Cabos and Riviera Maya). It’s next-level luxury.
First Impressions & Pairings
From the moment we sat down, we were treated like absolute royalty. Our waiter greeted us with a personalized card with our names on it and a warm note from the chef. You’re then offered a choice between wine pairings or cocktail pairings for the evening.
We went with cocktail pairings and honestly? 10/10 decision. Each drink was perfectly crafted to complement the flavors of the food. I still think about one of the mezcal-based cocktails- smoky, citrusy, and just chef’s kiss.
The Experience: 11 Courses of Magic
Cocina de Autor is a multi course tasting menu, a total of 11 courses that unfold over about 2.5 hours. Each dish is small, artfully presented, and filled with flavors you’ve probably never experienced before.
Our servers explained everything… the inspiration, ingredients, textures, and aromas behind each course. It wasn’t just dinner; it was a full sensory experience.
Some dishes left us wanting more (you’ll understand when you taste them), but by the end, we were stuffed. Every course flowed perfectly into the next, and the service was beyond exceptional.
Michelin-Star Dining, All-Inclusive Style
The coolest part? This entire Michelin-star dining experience is included in your stay at Grand Velas Riviera Maya. Like, where else can you get that level of fine dining without the massive bill at the end?
That alone makes the nightly rate worth every penny. Between the service, the quality, and the creativity, it’s truly a once in a lifetime experience.
Grand Velas has set the bar for what “all inclusive” should mean- luxury, intentionality, and next level hospitality.
Final Thoughts: 10/10 Anniversary Night
If you’re celebrating something special or honestly, even if you’re not, Cocina de Autor is an experience you’ll remember forever. From the presentation to the flavors to the impeccable service, it’s one of those “pinch me” moments that reminds you life’s meant to be savored.
We give it a solid 10/10, and we’ll 100% be back on our next visit.
So whether you’re planning your honeymoon, anniversary trip, or just craving an unforgettable night in paradise… Cocina de Autor at Grand Velas Riviera Maya deserves a spot at the very top of your list.
