Las Vegas always seems to have exciting openings, and with the busy holiday season just weeks away, several new restaurant openings are generating a lot of buzz. Among them, Amaya Modern Mexican, which will open its doors at the Cosmopolitan in Las Vegas at the end of December.

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

“I have 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 the Michelin-starred chef. Michelin Jason McLeod, in an email interview.

What appealed to the chef most was all the fresh, local seafood, but also the ingredients and spices 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 an inspiration that influenced every aspect of my cooking,” McLeod said.

Over the years, McLeod continued to be interested in Mexican gastronomy and its evolving role in the culinary scene. “The country’s rich culinary heritage, particularly along its coasts, showcases a dynamic blend of indigenous ingredients and contemporary techniques. My travels to coastal towns like Tulum not only opened my eyes to the beauty of Mexico’s culinary offerings, but also inspired me to create a menu. that embodies that spirit of celebration and community,” McLeod said.

Amaya, which will open soon, served as a sort of love letter to that inspiration. “Our menu draws heavily on the inventive nature of coastal cuisine, with an emphasis on 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 like Whole Lobster with Chili Lobster Cream Sauce and drizzled with lime or Birria Short Rib slow cooked and served with mashed corn, pickled onions and cotija cheese, plus an extensive catador-led cocktail program (tequila expert).

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

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

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