Sandos Playacar Welcomes Acclaimed Executive Chefs to Redefine Its Culinary Vision
Chef Nicola Gelli and Chef Keshar Singh Negi join resort team.
Playa del Carmen, Mexico – May 7, 2025 – The Mexico all-inclusive hospitality brand, Sandos Hotels & Resorts, is excited to unveil the latest development in its dining experience with the appointment of two internationally recognized culinary leaders to its executive team at Sandos Playacar in Playa del Carmen - Chef Nicola Gelli and Chef Keshar Singh Negi. Renowned for its location on one of the destination’s most beautiful stretches of indigo-blue beaches, the 819-room resort welcomes Chef Gellie and Chef Negi to reimagine its food and beverage program marking a significant step forward in the resort’s mission to offer elevated, globally inspired cuisine with authentic flavors and bold new concepts.
Chef Nicola Gelli brings more than 25 years of experience from top kitchens across Europe, Asia and the Caribbean, having held key positions as the Executive Chef of prestigious resorts including Vinpearl Vietnam, Sandals Saint Lucia and Royalton Jamaica. Known for his innovative fusion of Mediterranean traditions with Asian and Caribbean influences, he will be overhauling Sandos Playacar’s signature Italian restaurant, Il Piemonte, elevating the classic for a new generation of guests. Diners can expect a reimagined menu that will blend rustic authenticity with a new-age contemporary flair.
Chef Keshar Singh Negi will helm the complete rebrand of the resort’s Asiana restaurant, transitioning the concept into a vibrant new Indian dining destination – distinguishing itself as a unique offering amongst competition in this tropical locale. Chef Negi is developing an immersive culinary journey for resort guests, showcasing rich spices and traditional curry notes, leveraging his deep expertise in Indian, Thai and continental cuisine. His resumé includes leadership roles at major Mexico resorts including Hyatt Ziva Los Cabos, Hard Rock Cancun, and Paradisus Playa del Carmen.
With these dynamic chefs at the helm, Sandos Playacar is reaffirming its commitment to offering guests more than just meals, but unforgettable culinary experiences that fuse creativity, heritage, and world-class quality.
About Sandos Hotels & Resorts
Sandos Hotels & Resorts is a resort industry leader offering memorable stays to every one of its guests at one-of-a-kind iconic resorts. Today, the company has a total of ten resorts set among the best beach destinations in Spain and Mexico, with resorts for families and adults alike in search of an unbeatable vacation getaway.
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