PUNTA MITA, Mexico (March 13, 2015) – The St. Regis Punta Mita Resort, located in Mexico’s most exclusive beach community along the coast of the Riviera Nayarit, is pleased to announce the appointment of José Meza as executive chef of the property’s signature AAA Five Diamond rated restaurant, Carolina. Under the direction of Chef Meza, the prestigious restaurant will unveil an exciting new concept that promises to reflect the rich culinary heritage and tradition of Mexican gastronomy while presenting dishes that reimagine contemporary Mexican cuisine.
“We are thrilled to welcome José Meza as executive chef of our beloved Carolina Restaurant, who will debut a new concept that promises to explore the past, present, and future of Mexican cuisine,” said Carl Emberson, general manager of The St. Regis Punta Mita Resort. “We are confident that Chef Meza’s extensive knowledge and experience, along with his distinct take on fusing conventional and avant-garde Mexican cuisine, will push the boundaries of epicurean excellence and offer guests an unforgettable culinary experience.”
Deeply soaked in his country’s heritage, Chef Meza has a passion for traditional Mexican ingredients, forging an intimate connection with the land, sea and nature that surround him. With a culinary philosophy that honors his identity and culture, Chef Meza is dedicated to using produce that is native to Mexico and sourcing the freshest ingredients from local suppliers. These classic ingredients are the basis for his cutting edge recipes, showing pride in traditional cultural values while offering a vision for the future of Mexican cuisine. Some of Chef Meza’s signature dishes at Carolina will include Green Pozole Ceviche with the catch of the day, Cacahuazintle Corn and Fish Chicharron; Quail Taco with Foie Gras, Hoja Santa and Chili Adobo; Duck Enmolada with Mulato Chili, Black Mole, and Homemade Tortilla; and Papaya with Yogurt Foam, Lemon Sorbet, and Cilantro.
“I am honored to be named executive chef at one of Mexico’s most prestigious restaurants, joining the exceptionally talented professionals who take pride in delivering unforgettable, bespoke dining experiences to our discerning resort guests,” said Chef Meza. “In launching this new concept at Carolina, we strive to inspire a new style of Mexican cuisine that stays true to our strong culinary roots while delivering a distinct modern twist.”
Chef Meza discovered a passion for cooking growing up in his native Mexico City, spending Sundays in his grandmother’s kitchen. His career began at the age of 17, working in the busy restaurants of Mexico’s hospitality industry. After earning a degree in gastronomy at CESSA, San Ángel, Chef Meza’s culinary journey commenced under the tutelage of some of the world’s most acclaimed Michelin-starred chefs, such as Martin Berasategui, Bart de Pooyer, and Rene Redzepi of Noma in Copenhagen, touted as the number one restaurant in the world by the prestigious San Pellegrino Restaurant list. Chef Meza later returned home to Mexico City, where he formed part of the kitchen team at Chef Enrique Olvera’s world-famous Pujol, ranked as the number one restaurant in Mexico. During his time at Pujol, Meza developed his adoration for traditional ingredients, learning the techniques and recipes that would forge his love of Mexican cuisine. At the age of 24, Chef Meza was offered the opportunity to lead Chef Enrique Olvera’s latest project in San Miguel de Allende, where he opened Moxi to great acclaim.
Working hand in hand with Chef Meza, the bar team at Carolina has created a phenomenal cocktail program comprising unique flavor combinations that are mixed with premium spirits, fresh fruits and herbs. The same passion, thought and attention to detail is applied to Carolina’s liquid creations and forms an integral part of the culinary offering. A commitment to local ingredients and traditional produce is evident in the use of Mezcal, which can be seen in the extensive spirit selection and cocktail recipes. In addition, the broad selection of old and new world wines provides the other half of the culinary experience. Special attention is paid to wine pairings, combining flavor, texture, region and style in order to carefully complement Chef Meza’s creations.
Carolina is open for dinner Tuesday through Sunday, 6:00 p.m. until 11:00 p.m., providing a bespoke culinary experience. The cuisine is served principally as a degustation menu with five to eight courses, including an amuse bouche, entrée, main course, pre-dessert, dessert and petit fours.
Ideally located within Mexico’s most exclusive beach community along the shores of Riviera Nayarit, The St. Regis Punta Mita Resort offers modern sophistication, unparalleled luxury and bespoke service at one the best addresses in the world. Designed by Hill Glazier architects, the resort features 120 elegantly appointed guest rooms and suites, St. Regis’ legendary Butler Service, a signature Remède Spa, 12,000 square feet of meeting and event space, and state-of-the-art fitness facilities.
More information and reservations are available at 877-250-8871 or www.stregis.com/puntamita.
