The Riviera Maya Edition at Kanai partners with Francisco "Paco" Ruano and Tomás Bermudez

Edition Hotels has partnered with Mexican chefs, Francisco “Paco” Ruano and Tomás Bermudez, to spearhead the culinary experience at The Riviera Maya Edition at Kanai.

Ruano and Bermudez, both acclaimed award-winning chefs recognised by World’s 50 Best, will each have their own restaurants at the resort. Ruano will lead the property’s signature restaurant and introduce a casual contemporary Mexican dining concept, while Bermudez will take charge of the hotel’s Côte d’Azur inspired beach club, situated along the serene Caribbean coastline.

Fuelled by a deep appreciation for the flavours of traditional Mexican cuisine passed down through generations by his mother and grandmother, and enriched by his European culinary adventures, Chef Ruano has crafted a culinary style that passionately showcases flavour, and embraces the connection to the land, with an emphasis on simplicity.

“I am delighted to be partnering with Edition Hotels and joining an esteemed global family of celebrated culinary talent,” shares Chef Ruano. “Preparing for the launch of my offerings at the Riviera Maya property has helped further develop my skills and propelled my cooking to new heights.”

The launch of The Riviera Maya Edition at Kanai will bring together two chefs who have been friends for over ten years.  “Tomás and I have known each other for more than a decade and have fostered a professional respect that has blossomed into a strong friendship,” adds Ruano. “I admire his straightforward culinary style that begins at the source of his ingredients and resonates with all taste buds.”

Bermudez embarked on his culinary journey with a humble beginning, taking on roles as a dishwasher among various small kitchen positions before honing his skills under the tutelage of renowned Spanish chef, Martín Berasategui, a culinary legend boasting an impressive 12 Michelin stars. From Berasategui, Chef Bermudez embraced the virtue of discipline and also cultivated his expertise in the art of grilling while working at La Parrilla del in Buenos Aires where he mastered the intricacies of handling embers, barbecues, and open flames.

In 2012, Bermudez launched La Docena in Guadalajara. Here, oysters take centre stage at the bar and grill, which combines famed elements of New Orleans and Buenos Aires. With two further branches in Mexico City, and one in São Paolo, the restaurant was recognised as No.41 in Latin America’s 50 Best Restaurants in 2019, and No. 42 in 2022.

“I am looking forward to showcasing the freshest local produce from Riviera Maya within a stunning beachfront EDITION property” adds Bermudez.

The Riviera Maya EDITION at Kanai marks the brand’s latest culinary partnership with global chefs joining the likes of Jean-Georges Vongerichten, John Fraser, Tom Aikens, Jason Atherton, Osman Sezener, Enrique Olvera, Diego Muñoz, Paola Colucci and Josh Niland.