Amid the luxurious embrace of Grand Velas Los Cabos, Cocina De Autor stands out as a beacon of culinary innovation and excellence. This Michelin-starred restaurant, renowned for its unique blend of flavors and ingredients, offers more than just a meal—it promises an unforgettable gastronomic journey. Here, we recount the details of an exquisite evening that combined fine dining with the serene beauty of a Baja California night.
Cocina De Autor: A Fusion of Art and Flavor
Nestled within the stunning Grand Velas Los Cabos, Cocina De Autor is celebrated for its creative approach to cuisine, which has earned it a coveted Michelin star. Under the guidance of a visionary chef, the restaurant crafts dishes that are as much a feast for the eyes as they are for the palate. The chef’s dedication to culinary perfection is evident in every dish, utilizing techniques and ingredients that reflect both local and international flavors.
The Prelude: Cocktails and Amuse-Bouche
Our culinary adventure began in the restaurant’s chic lounge, where the mood was set by soft lighting and contemporary decor. We started with expertly mixed cocktails, each a perfect balance of flavors, setting the stage for the evening’s gastronomic symphony. The first two courses, presented as amuse-bouche, were delicate yet bold introductions to the chef’s style.
- Ikejime Rockot: A testament to the Japanese method of preserving fish quality, this dish was beautifully presented with accents of pepper leaf, grapefruit, and avocado, each element complementing the fish’s freshness and delicate texture.
- Australian Wagyu: This dish was a standout, featuring smoked parmesan cheese, figs from the restaurant’s garden, and tartufata. The wagyu was tender, its rich flavors enhanced by the smoky and sweet accompaniments.
Transition to the Terrace
As we moved from the indoor lounge to the terrace, the ambiance shifted from the intimate to the enchanting. Set by a tranquil koi pond, with a live harpist providing a melodious backdrop, the setting was nothing short of magical. The gentle strumming of the harp and the soft ripple of water created a symphony of sounds that harmonized beautifully with the night air.
The Main Culinary Journey
Seated comfortably by the koi pond, we continued our dining experience under the stars. Each course was a revelation, showcasing the chef’s ability to combine ingredients in surprising yet harmonious ways.
- Comundu Gigas Oyster: Served with apple aguachile, cucumber, and arbequina, this dish was a refreshing blend of textures and flavors, each bite echoing the freshness of the sea.
- King Kampachi: Accented with habanero chili, coriander, turnip, and nixtamal, this course was both vibrant and perfectly balanced, with just the right amount of heat.
- Yellow Corn Velouté: This comforting dish was enriched with shiitake mushrooms, pecan nuts, and jicama, offering a creamy texture and a depth of earthy flavors.
- Beef Tenderloin: Featuring celeriac from Miraflores and maitake mushrooms in an amanzu sauce, this course was both rustic and refined, the beef cooked to tender perfection.
- Beetroot: A creative twist on traditional ingredients, combining sourdough, black sesame, and smoked almonds to create a dish that was both earthy and subtly sweet.
The Finale: Chilate
Our culinary expedition concluded with the Chilate, a dessert that brought together cinnamon, cocoa, and mezcal. This final course was a masterpiece of flavors, the warmth of the cinnamon and the richness of the cocoa perfectly complementing the smoky notes of mezcal.
Conclusion: A Night to Remember
Dining at Cocina De Autor at Grand Velas Los Cabos was an experience that went beyond mere eating. It was a celebration of creativity, flavor, and the joy of sharing a meal in one of the most beautiful settings imaginable. The staff’s attentiveness and the chef’s innovative approach made this evening not just memorable but truly transformative.
For anyone visiting Los Cabos, a meal at Cocina De Autor is not just recommended; it’s essential. It’s a place where every dish tells a story and every bite is a journey—an epicurean adventure that stays with you long after the last course is served.
