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Sandos Playacar, an 859-room beachfront resort in Playa del Carmen, has announced the appointment of two internationally acclaimed chefs to lead a major transformation of its dining program. Chef Nicola Gelli and Chef Keshar Singh Negi have joined the executive team with a mandate to reimagine and elevate the resort’s culinary offerings.
This strategic move is part of Sandos Hotels & Resorts’ broader effort to deliver globally inspired cuisine infused with authenticity and bold new flavors. The resort, set along one of Playa del Carmen’s most stunning stretches of beach, aims to redefine the all-inclusive dining experience.
Chef Nicola Gelli, with over 25 years of global experience spanning Europe, Asia, and the Caribbean, will spearhead the revamp of the resort’s Italian restaurant, Il Piemonte. Formerly executive chef at luxury properties including Vinpearl Vietnam, Sandals Saint Lucia, and Royalton Jamaica, Gelli is renowned for fusing Mediterranean culinary traditions with Asian and Caribbean influences. The new Il Piemonte menu promises a blend of rustic authenticity and modern flair designed to appeal to contemporary palates.
Joining him is Chef Keshar Singh Negi, who will lead the transformation of Asiana, the resort’s pan-Asian venue, into a vibrant Indian dining destination. Negi’s extensive culinary background includes roles at top-tier resorts such as Hyatt Ziva Los Cabos, Hard Rock Cancun, and Paradisus Playa del Carmen. His reimagined concept will offer guests a rich exploration of Indian flavors, spices, and cooking traditions, further diversifying the resort’s culinary landscape.
“With these dynamic chefs at the helm, Sandos Playacar is reaffirming its commitment to offering guests more than just meals, but unforgettable culinary experiences,” the resort announced, emphasizing its focus on creativity, heritage, and top-tier quality.
The updates mark a significant evolution in Sandos Playacar’s food and beverage offerings, as the resort continues to attract travelers seeking distinctive and immersive vacation experiences.
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Jeff Colhoun
Jeff Colhoun is a photographer and filmmaker whose work has appeared in The Wall Street Journal, the Los Angeles Times, Matador Network and Barron’s.
