The Belmond Maroma in Riviera Maya, Mexico is coming back after an extensive renovation — and Chef Curtis Stone is heading up the kitchen at the property’s stunning new restaurant.
Curtis Stone, an acclaimed Michelin-star chef and world-class restaurateur, has joined forces with Belmond Maroma to create a culinary experience like no other and when his brand new restaurant opens later this summer, guests are in for a real treat. Known for his exceptional culinary skills and commitment to highlighting the best of local ingredients, Stone brings his expertise and passion to Woodend by Curtis Stone, the signature restaurant at Belmond Maroma.
With a cooking philosophy centered around simplicity and the use of open-fire techniques, Stone’s dishes exude distinct, vibrant and incomparable flavors. His restaurants, including Maude in Beverly Hills, Gwen Butcher Shop & Restaurant in Hollywood and Georgie in Dallas, have all earned Michelin stars, solidifying his position as a master of his craft.
For Stone, cooking is not just about creating exceptional dishes, it is also about preserving culinary traditions and heritage. He credits his grandmothers for playing a significant role in his culinary education and passing down their traditional recipes and techniques. This appreciation for family and tradition is evident in his approach to cooking, where he infuses his dishes with a personal touch.
With the launch of Woodend by Curtis Stone, the chef excited to explore Mexico’s rich culinary heritage and incorporate local flavors, ingredients and traditions into his menu. The surrounding area is where the jungle meets the Caribbean Sea, and the beachside restaurant aims to create a unique dining experience that reflects the history, traditions and vibrant flavors of the Yucatán Peninsula.
“Mexico has such a rich culinary heritage of passing recipes down through generations, which is something I value greatly,” says Stone. “My grandmothers, who are the namesakes of my California restaurants, played a significant role in my culinary education and shared many of their traditions with me that I still use in my cooking today. Becoming inspired by the surrounding area, its ingredients, and the local traditions in such a treasured playground is an incredibly exciting opportunity, and I’m looking forward to sharing this new dining experience with Maroma’s guests very soon.”
Belmond Maroma, known for its impeccable service, timeless beauty and authentic atmosphere, provides the perfect backdrop for Stone’s culinary creations. The resort, recently renovated and redesigned, seamlessly blends traditional Mexican charm with contemporary elegance. From the meticulously crafted architecture to the thoughtfully curated interiors, every aspect of Belmond Maroma exudes luxury and tranquility.
Guests at Belmond Maroma can indulge in a range of exceptional dining experiences, from Woodend by Curtis Stone, where seasonal dishes cooked over an open fire take center stage, to Casa Mayor, offering a fresh take on traditional Mexican cuisine. Each culinary journey is designed to delight the senses and provide guests with a truly unforgettable dining experience.
“We are thrilled to partner with Curtis Stone and welcome Woodend to our new chapter of Maroma,” says Federico Echaiz, Area Managing Director and General Manager of Maroma, A Belmond Hotel, Riviera Maya. “Curtis shares a lot of the same principles that we do at Maroma and Belmond as a whole: a commitment to genuine and authentic hospitality, and expectations of an unparalleled culinary experience while allowing for relaxation coupled with moments of indulgence, and we are looking forward to sharing this new signature restaurant with our discerning guests.”
The collaboration between Curtis Stone and Belmond Maroma brings together two entities committed to delivering exceptional hospitality, preserving heritage and creating memorable experiences. Stone’s culinary expertise, combined with Belmond Maroma’s dedication to authenticity and service, promises a dining experience that will captivate and delight guests. Whether savoring freshly caught seafood or immersing oneself in the vibrant flavors of Mexico, guests at Belmond Maroma can expect a culinary journey that celebrates the best of local ingredients, traditions and the artistry of Curtis Stone.
Woodend by Curtis Stone will be open daily for dinner from 6:00 p.m. to 11:00 p.m., starting on August 3, 2023. For reservations and more information, please contact [email protected].
