All-inclusive vacations are your time to indulge, so the last thing you want to walk into at an all-inclusive resort is an underwhelming buffet with a selection of expected cocktails. That’s why we’re dedicated to helping you plan quality, all-inclusive vacation experiences, with everything from the cocktails to the food on your plate surpassing any and all expectations.
We invited six foodie influencers who know a thing or two about a five-star meal on a five-star all-inclusive getaway. We went to UNICO 20° 87° Riviera Maya, and we’re here to give a recap of our curated culinary experience. Bon Appetit!
Day one
The six influencers– @melissamale, @nameless.james, @thegrubfather, @befatbehappy, @blondeswhoeat, and @stickaforkinme–are from all over the U.S., so we arranged private luxury airport transfers through Amstar DMC upon their arrival in Cancun to the resort. UNICO 20° 87° truly exemplifies what it means to be an all-inclusive luxury resort, so once they were checked in, everyone was assigned a personal butler to tend to any needs or requests throughout their stay, a luxury for guests at this stunning property.
We kicked off our culinary experience at Cueva Siete, the resort’s premier Mexican restaurant. The restaurant is inspired by Mayan myths and features rotating chefs for a unique, chef-driven experience. Chef Lula Martín Del Campo evokes the everyday flavors of Mexican cuisine through innovative pairings and elevated presentations.
Day two
After a casual beachside breakfast, we invited our foodie crew to some boozy and sweet on-site activities. First, we headed to the Palerma Lounge for a mixology class with the resort's award-winning mixologist, Luis Vallejo. He guided us through the basics of how to make a perfect cocktail using local, organic ingredients while providing us with an in-depth history of his craft. And best of all, all the cocktails found at the resort’s bars are curated and crafted with the same expert precision.
Before heading out to the pool for some R&R, we had to satisfy our sweet tooth. The head chocolatier at SOÓL guided our group through the art of chocolate making as we prepared delicious chocolate truffles. The rest of the afternoon was up to our leisure, but after cocktails and chocolate, we needed a nap before our next meal!
While many all-inclusive resorts feature a hibachi-style restaurant, UNICO’s Mura House goes above and beyond. Mura House draws upon flavors and techniques throughout Asia, focusing on tradition and innovation. It is heavily influenced by three styles of Japanese cuisine and features something for everyone. Plus, who doesn’t love a hibachi experience? It’s downright fun!
Day three
We began our morning at the European-inspired Café Inez for fresh juices, coffee, tea, baked goods, and pastries. Our next activity wasn’t until mid-afternoon when we headed back to Cueva Siete to learn about Mexican cuisine and cooking techniques which gave us time to lay by the pool and participate in a spin class in the water, led by the fantastic entertainment staff at UNICO.
The cooking class focused on traditional Mexican ingredients using chilies, corn, fruits, and vegetables. We then switched gears to a wine-tasting and charcuterie pairing at La Botella in preparation for our Mediterranean dinner at Mi Carisa. Mi Carisa’s romantic, intimate vibe is inspired by the coastline of Italy, featuring traditional Italian practices like a wood-burning oven and handmade pasta recipes.
Day four
We encouraged our group to take the morning to relax and indulge in some room service on our last full day of vacation. After all, room service is included! And since no trip to Mexico is complete without tequila, we had to squeeze in a tequila tasting with UNICO’s head sommelier. Our tasting featured an array of mezcals and tequilas, teaching us the key differences and defining qualities found in each spirit. We ended our trip with a casual beachfront dinner at the 20° 87° Restaurant featuring a selection of fresh seafood and steaks. UNICO surprised our group with adorable ice cream carts brought to the table to finish our final meal!
As you can imagine, we were stuffed when Amstar dropped us back off at the airport. Nonetheless, we are so thankful to the UNICO staff and our influencer team, who made this all-inclusive experience not only extraordinary but unforgettably delicious! Check out more of our influencer-inspired trips here.
