Amaya will bring Vegas vibes and Tulum flavor to Cosmopolitan

Las Vegas always seems to have exciting openings, and with the busy holiday season just a few weeks away, there are several new restaurant openings getting a lot of attention. Among them is Amaya Modern Mexican, which will open at The Cosmopolitan of Las Vegas in late December.

This Mexican restaurant is the vision of Michelin-starred chef Jason McLeod, who was inspired by the coastal cuisine of Tulum.

“I spent several years of my career immersed in San Diego’s vibrant culinary scene, where I had the opportunity to explore the rich tapestry of flavors and techniques that define this region,” said Michelin-starred chef Jason McLeod in an e-interview. email.

What appealed most to the chef was all the fresh local seafood, but also the ingredients and seasonings that Baja is best known for, and these elements helped shape his culinary vision moving forward. “This dynamic environment was not just a backdrop; it was a source of inspiration that informed every aspect of my cooking,” McLeod said.

Over the years, McLeod continued to be interested in the cuisine of Mexico and its evolving role in the culinary scene. “The country’s rich culinary heritage, especially along its coasts, features a vibrant blend of indigenous ingredients and contemporary techniques. My travels to coastal cities like Tulum have not only opened my eyes to the beauty of Mexico’s culinary offerings, but also inspired us to create a menu that embodies this spirit of celebration and community,” said McLeod.

Amaya, which will open soon, served as a kind of love letter to this inspiration. “Our menu draws heavily on the inventive nature of coastal cuisine, emphasizing shareable dinners that encourage guests to gather around the table and enjoy a communal dining experience,” said McLeod.

The aforementioned dining experience will include dishes such as whole lobster accompanied with lobster cream sauce and drizzled with lemon or Birria Short Rib which is slow cooked and served with corn puree, pickled onions and cotija cheese, as well as an extensive cocktail program led by a scavenger (tequila specialist).

But it’s not just about the ingredients and the menu, it’s also about capturing that Tulum vibe, which was a big part of the chef’s vision. “Just like the evening celebrations in Tulum, where food becomes a centerpiece of joy and connection, my goal is to create an atmosphere where every meal is not just about nutrition, but also about creating lasting memories with friends and family.” , said McLeod. .

“Through Amaya, I hope to transport our guests to a place where flavor, culture and community intertwine, inviting them to experience Mexico’s rich culinary heritage while celebrating the bounty of our local surroundings,” said McLeod, and he Expect every dish on the menu to show this. “Each dish is crafted with intention, aiming to highlight the vibrant ingredients and traditions that have influenced my journey,” he said.

McLeod believes food is more than just sustenance. “It’s an experience that brings people together and I’m thrilled to share this passion with our guests.”