This Playa del Carmen All-Inclusive Is Revamping Its Dining Program

One of the most popular all-inclusive resorts in the Mexican Caribbean hotspot of Playa del Carmen is revamping its dining program. 

Sandos Hotels & Resorts has announced a major enhancement to its culinary program at Sandos Playacar in Playa del Carmen, with the addition of two internationally recognized chefs to its executive team.

The 819-room all-inclusive resort, set along one of the best stretches of beach in the Riviera Maya, has welcomed Chef Nicola Gelli and Chef Keshar Singh Negi to lead a reimagining of its food and beverage offerings.

Chef Nicola Gelli, who has worked in acclaimed kitchens across Europe, Asia, and the Caribbean, will oversee a transformation of the resort’s signature Italian restaurant, Il Piemonte. 

Gelli’s background includes executive roles at Vinpearl Vietnam, Sandals Saint Lucia and Royalton Jamaica.

At Sandos Playacar, the plan is for him to bring a “contemporary approach” to Italian cuisine, blending Mediterranean roots with Asian and Caribbean influences.

Chef Keshar Singh Negi, meanwhile, will spearhead a full rebrand of the property’s Asiana restaurant, converting it into a new Indian dining concept — a distinctive addition to the region’s resort culinary landscape. With previous experience at Hyatt Ziva Los Cabos, Hard Rock Cancun, and Paradisus Playa del Carmen, Chef Negi will be crafting an immersive Indian culinary experience that highlights bold spices and traditional regional flavors, according to the property.

Sandos is clearly working to to elevate its culinary identity — and these two new chefs should be a big part of it.

Heading to Playa del Carmen? The Sandos Playacar has rooms for $347 right now.