W Punta De Mita Has A Secret Restaurant
As if the sand, sun and scenery of the pacific coast of Mexico wasn't enough, the Punta de Mita outpost of W Hotel has a few surprises for their guests. And one is a total secret.
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Let's start with the obvious. The W is stunning. From the 9-foot Huichol statue that 'greets' guests, to the colorful fleet of Tuk Tuks – with artwork customised by Sayulita-based studio Revolución Del Sueño – that are on hand to whisk guests around the property and the mosaic embellished runway that leads guests from the chic Living Room bar out and over the private cabanas and directly to the Pacific Ocean, this place is a looker. Celebs Iman and Michael Fassbender are fans, so don't be surprised if you see them by the pool on a visit.
It was designed by Designed by ASET/AOMA in collaboration with Oakland-based design firm Mister Important Design with the goal to incorporate and pay respect to the cultural history of Mexico and the Riviera Nayarit. "Here, Colonial grandeur blends seamlessly with the extraordinary artistry of the indigenous Huichol peoples," says the brand. What does that mean? Think Bohemian surf culture mixed with Mexican art and historic accents. In rooms, artisan Mexican tapestries are set against handmade punctured tin (replicating the design found in local churches) or surfboard headboards. Larger than life pop art installations of Frida Kahlo living her skateboard life and Emiliano Zapata carrying a surfboard adorn each room and an open air design that lets you feel like you're living in the jungle (or ocean) you are staring out into. You won't want to leave your room – most of the decor comes from famed Mexican shop Revolucion Del Sueno – one of the coolest stores in nearby Sayulita.
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Some of the greatest elements, though, are edible. Guests often make recycled 1950s Chevrolet 3800 truck truck turned ceviche restaurant (aptly called Chevicheria) their first stop. And rightfully so. The views can't be beat – it's literally on the beach – and the menu focuses on traditional cevice and tacos. Signature dishes range from Ceviche Yucatan's spicy shrimp, scallop, and octopus to Ceviche Peruano's yellow-fin tuna with soy sauce, aji rocoto, and avocado to Ceviche de Pescado—Punta de Mita's coconut and spice-infused catch-of-the-day. Each perfectly combines with a crisp craft beer – don't worry, there are many here.
Breakfast and lunch can be found in a few spots, but Venazu is the fan favorite. Inspired by Huichol legend about the venado azul, the blue deer, our all-day dining venue, Venazú, synthesizes a modern indoor-outdoor design, an outdoor terrace with sweeping views, and a festive vibe – you might even see a grill set up. If you do, take advantage of freshly grilled octopus, steak, fish and more.
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A table at Jean-Georges Vongerichten's Spice Market is a must in the evening. Settle in to the devinely designed space and select from the menu's pioneering plates—served family style. Dishes include spiced chicken samosas with cilantro-infused yogurt, vinegar-infused pork vindaloo, ginger fried rice with golden egg, and halibut cha ca la. Handcrafted cocktails and unique desserts cap it all off.
Mezcals fans will find their way to the Living Room bar where experts have carefully curated a Mezcal selection like no other. They'll walk you through them all also, offering guests a chance to sip, sample and learn.
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The true gem of the dining scene at the W, though, isn't actually seen. Mesa1 is the hotel's secret restaurant. It is a private table, yes, just a table, that is out of sight until the reserved dining time. There is only one seating daily. Whether its for two or for 12, just one lucky guests gets to eat "here" -a table situated on one of the resort's mini islands, accessible only a series of stepping stones that emerge from the spring-fed lake to walk over then disappear once everyone has been seated. It's chef's choice, so prepare to be left stunned and speechless. A seven-course tasting menu prepared by one of our private chefs further amplifies the unparalleled experience. The customizable menu showcases gastronomic creations—such as king crab tartar with green gazpacho and lobster cannelloni with foie gras, jabugo, and arugula—that elevate an intimate dinner for two or a gathering of up to 18 of your closest friends and family. The design, like the menu, changes so you might get giant diamond-encrusted sugar skulls alongsize your dinner plate, or a private DJ set up to entertain. Just go with it. YOLO, after all.