Agave Azul at Rosewood Mayakoba: A Taste of Mexico’s Finest Cuisine

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Agave Azul Restaurant Playa Del Carmen

Agave Azul: A Taste of Quintessential Mexican Cuisine

By Samantha James

As an expat living in Playa del Carmen, I’m always seeking out the best local eateries to immerse myself in Mexico’s incredible culinary scene. During my recent visit to the luxurious Rosewood Mayakoba resort, I was thrilled to discover their signature restaurant, Agave Azul. With its contemporary take on authentic Mexican cuisine made from regional ingredients, it promised to be a memorable dining experience highlighting the diverse flavors of Mexico.

Initial Impressions: Modern Elegance with a Unique Coastal Flair at Agave Azul

When my husband Steve and I first arrived at Agave Azul, we were immediately impressed by the gorgeous open-air setting, tropical landscaping, and minimalist Mexican decor. Sweeping archways revealed glimpses of the nearby lagoons and mangroves, bringing striking natural elements into the sophisticated space.

The hostess greeted us warmly, and I was happy when she was able to accommodate my request for a waterside table. As she led us across the stone floors and breezy terrace, I noticed small artistic touches like Oaxacan alebrije sculptures and walls decorated with traditional Huichol beadwork. It struck the perfect balance of modern elegance infused with authentic Mexican style.

Challenges: Navigating a Large Resort Complex

While the restaurant ambiance exceeded expectations, it did take us a while to actually locate Agave Azul within the sprawling resort grounds. With multiple luxury hotels and restaurants, it felt like its own village! Thank goodness for friendly staff members who helped point us in the right direction when we got a bit turned around.

Tip: When dining at Rosewood Mayakoba, be sure to allot extra time to navigate between the various hotels to find the restaurant entrance. Valet parking and small directional signs also help guests find their way.

Delightful Service That Made Us Feel at Home at Agave Azul

When the hostess showed us to our coveted lagoon-view table, I grinned seeing the shimmering water just steps away. Our server Pablo then welcomed us in fluent English, handing over menus while rattling off the day’s specials. His friendly and attentive service throughout the evening played a big part in the dining experience.

We also noticed that the entire staff worked smoothly together as a team. For example, when Steve asked about mezcal options, Pablo seamlessly asked a bartender to come share specialized recommendations. This level of coordination led to highly personalized service that made us feel comfortable and well taken care of.

Tantalizing Menus Bursting with Regional Ingredients at Agave Azul

As Pablo offered drink suggestions, my mouth watered scanning the menu pages highlighting Mexico’s regional cuisine. Traditional moles from Oaxaca, seafood from Veracruz, specialty meat dishes from the interior states – it was a culinary tour of Mexico on a plate! I was thrilled to recognize some of my favorite local ingredients like chaya, a Yucatecan spinach, along with lesser known delicacies like huitlacoche corn mushrooms.

Challenges: Too Many Tempting Options!

With so many incredible menu choices, I struggled to decide what to order! From complex moles to intricate seafood dishes, everything sounded incredible. I hemmed and hawed, caught in delicious indecision.

Tip: Dining with a group allows you to order several dishes “family style” so you can sample more menu items. Solo diners can also order a few small plates to taste different regional specialties in smaller portions.

Celebrating Mexico’s Ancient Spirits: The Fine Art of Mezcal at Agave Azul

While scanning enticing menu descriptions, Steve happily sipped a smoky mezcal cocktail recommended by Pablo. When he commented on the incredible smooth yet complex flavors, Pablo eagerly offered to have one of their mezcal experts stop by our table to chat about this iconic Mexican spirit. We excitedly agreed.

Moments later, we had the pleasure of meeting master mezcalier Rodrigo who educated us on distilling processes, agave varietals and even let Steve sample rare single-estate mezcals to highlight unique flavor profiles. His passion and expertise shed light on the ancient artisanal craft behind quality mezcal. What fascinating insights into Mexico’s culture and history!

Sublime Seafood Highlighting Mexican Ingredients at Agave Azul

After whetting our appetites with mezcal history, we were ready to feast. As Playa del Carmen locals who adore fresh seafood, Steve and I opted to share the Veracruz-style catch of the day: huachinango al mojo de ajo, a regional red snapper dish. When the beautifully plated fish arrived, we were wowed by the aromatic garlic, Mexican oregano and hint of chili in the vinegary sauce.

The snapper fillet itself was incredibly fresh, flavorful and cooked flawlessly. Each moist flaky bite highlighted why Veracruz stands out for its spectacular seafood. We also loved the sides of arroz blanco and steamed local vegetables which perfectly balanced the flavors. Now that’s how to showcase Mexican cuisine at its finest!

Challenges: Full Plates and Even Fuller Stomachs!

That snapper fillet was enormous – easily four or five servings’ worth! Between the two of us, Steve and I got completely stuffed trying to power through the heaping main course. I always struggle with getting full too fast when dishes look so tempting that my eyes are bigger than my stomach.

Tip: Feel free to ask your server to box up half your meal to enjoy as leftovers later. No need to overeat just because they give large portions. You’re on vacation after all!

Indulging Our Sweet Tooth with Creatively Crafted Mexican Desserts at Agave Azul

Somehow after polishing off piles of splendid snapper and sides, Steve and I still had room for dessert – our favorite part of any meal! We decided to order two sweets to split: the regional tasting platter and their signature Mexican chocolate tart.

When the dessert trio of coco tart, mamey panna cotta and sweet potato custard arrived, I barely knew where to start. But the tropical mamey flavor caught my eye first. What an unexpected tropical fruit twist! Its velvety panna cotta melted in my mouth while the sweet potato and creamy coconut balanced beautifully. Paired with tart mango sorbet, it was refreshing and decadent all at once.

Next we dug into the chocolate tart with vanilla anglaise and avocado lime sorbet. Rich crumbly crust and silky smooth filling enrobed my tastebuds in cocoa heaven. They cleverly incorporated aromatic Mexican vanilla and regional chili powder for depth…and believe me, it worked! A sublimely chocolatey conclusion to an incredible dining experience.

An Unforgettable Celebration of Mexico’s Culinary Riches at Agave Azul

As Steve and I slowly savored the last spoonfuls of splendid sorbet, I reflected on the meal as a whole. Agave Azul truly exceeded my expectations, serving up Mexico’s culinary diversity through regional ingredients, time-honored cooking techniques, and signature flavors masterfully balanced.

From master mezcalier Rodrigo’s captivating artisanal spirit tutorial to Manuel’s flawlessly cooked Veracruz snapper to the pastry chef’s creative Mexican dessert twists – the kitchen team beautifully showcased their pride in Mexican cuisine. And Pablo and the friendly waitstaff made the evening smooth and comfortable, clearly experienced in high-end hospitality.

For travelers and expats alike looking to indulge in Mexico’s culinary riches, Agave Azul offers the ultimate destination. Their contemporary take on regional cooking traditions spanning seafood, moles, meats and more provides something for every palate. Creative cocktails and an extensive mezcal list give you plenty of pairing options too.

Just be sure to come hungry – with such temptation, you’ll want to sample plenty of their menu! Though thanks to impeccable service and a relaxed yet chic ambiance in a striking natural setting, I already find myself eager to return. ¡Buen provecho y salud!

Author Bio: Samantha James is a freelance writer and avid traveler originally from San Diego. After falling in love with Playa del Carmen while on vacation, she took a leap and moved to Mexico to embark on expat life. Samantha enjoys immersing herself in the local culture, beach-hopping along the Riviera Maya, and especially seeking out the best regional cuisine. She hopes to provide helpful tips and stories to others planning memorable trips to this coastal paradise.

Opening Hours: 17:00 to 23:00 pm.

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Samantha James

Samantha James is a freelance writer and avid traveler originally from San Diego. After falling in love with Playa del Carmen while on vacation, she took a leap and moved to Mexico to embark on expat life. Samantha enjoys immersing herself in the local culture, beach-hopping along the Riviera Maya, and especially seeking out the best regional cuisine. She hopes to provide helpful tips and stories to others planning memorable trips to this coastal paradise.

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