Waldorf Astoria Riviera Maya announces the arrival of Chef Jonathan Santiago as executive chef, marking the beginning of an exciting new culinary era at the oceanfront resort. With a distinguished career in luxury hospitality and a passion for creating exceptional dining experiences, Santiago takes the helm of the resort’s culinary program, committed to elevating each dish into a true expression of artistry and sophistication. As executive chef, he will lead the culinary direction across the resort’s acclaimed dining venues including Malpeque, the signature restaurant centered around a regal open-flame grill, Chaya, the all-day brasserie celebrating the beauty of hyper-seasonal ingredients and JA’O, a high-energy, vibrant restaurant that honors traditional techniques and recipes, embodying the spirit of Mexican cantina cooking.
Bringing over two decades of experience in fine dining, Chef Santiago has steered world-class culinary teams and developed innovative concepts that merge refined techniques with local ingredients. His cuisine, rooted in French techniques and enriched by Mexican heritage, is characterized by craftsmanship, balance, and a deep respect for tradition.
Prior to joining Waldorf Astoria Riviera Maya, Chef Santiago trained under and collaborated with some of the culinary world’s most respected names and those experiences continue to shape his refined, technique-driven approach to modern Mexican cuisine. He also held various leadership positions at luxury resorts, overseeing complex culinary operations and played an instrumental role in hotel openings and the development of innovative gastronomic concepts tailored to Riviera Maya’s luxury clientele.
