Riviera Maya, Mexico (March 20, 2026) – In honor of International Women’s Month, Grand Velas Riviera Maya has launched a special chocolate workshop led by some of the resort’s acclaimed female chefs. “The Flavors by Women: Chocolate Bonbon Workshop” was designed as a heartfelt celebration of the women who contribute to the hotel’s gastronomic identity.
The workshop guides small groups through the delicate craft of handcrafted chocolate bonbon making from start to finish. Under the guidance of Executive Sous Chef, Mariana Alegría Gárate, and her team, guests explore a selection of milk and dark chocolate infused with Mexican flavors, including red fruit, chili, and orange, while learning the foundational techniques of tempering, molding, filling, and finishing. The experience places a meaningful emphasis on flavor balance, texture, and presentation, transforming what might otherwise be an afternoon activity into a genuine culinary education. Throughout the session, the Chefs share not only their technical expertise but also their personal journeys, offering a rare and authentic window into the passion and dedication that drives their craft. Beyond the craft itself, the workshop serves as a tribute to the essential role women play in shaping the resort’s culinary program, celebrating their leadership, expertise, and the lasting impact of their contributions to the world of gastronomy.
The workshop is led by four remarkable women whose stories reflect the diversity and depth of Grand Velas Riviera Maya’s culinary team. Executive Sous Chef Mariana Alegría Gárate, a Mexico City native, trained at a Louis XV chocolate shop in Monaco under Maître Chocolatier Franck Madala and later became a certified Sommelier before joining Grand Velas. Chef of Michelin-starred Cocina de Autor, Erika Anahí Villanueva Mora, originally from Mérida, Yucatán, has built her career on the belief that food is the most powerful bridge between people and cultures. Lorena Serrano Lara, Chef of Suite Service Kitchen, joined the resort in 2012 as a steward and—driven by her admiration for the kitchen’s precision and energy—rose through the ranks to her current leadership role. Pastry Chef Martha Elena Hidalgo López rounds out the team with over 23 years of experience, 15 of which have been dedicated to Grand Velas Riviera Maya, where she has become a cornerstone of the pastry program and a champion of avant-garde technique
The chocolate bonbon workshop was conceived exclusively for Women’s Month, reflecting Grand Velas Riviera Maya’s ongoing commitment to recognizing and uplifting the talent within its team. It remains available throughout the year for private group bookings.
The Flavors by Women Chocolate Bonbon Workshop is available for $367 USD for 8 guests or $183 USD for up to four. Resort guests may make their reservations with their personal concierge. For reservations or additional information on Grand Velas Riviera Maya, call 1-888-407-4869 or visit www.rivieramaya.grandvelas.com.
