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An Insider’s Guide to Zapote, Rosewood Mayakoba’s Award-Winning Bar

Discover why a uniquely Mexican mixology concept and incomparable atmosphere have made Zapote at Rosewood Mayakoba one of the most renowned bars in Mexico.

Inspired by the rich culture of the Yucatán Peninsula, Zapote Bar is a journey for the senses, inviting guests to discover Mexican spirits and ingredients through creative cocktails and dishes. Located right off the lobby at Rosewood Mayakoba, Zapote has helped redefine the concept of the hotel bar through its inventive drinks and relaxed yet sophisticated atmosphere. Charming guests and industry experts alike, Zapote currently stands at #11 in North America’s 50 Best Bars (2023), it was named Best Bar in Mexico by Food & Travel magazine in 2023, and was a regional Top 10 Honoree at Tales of the Cocktail’s Spirited Awards in the Best Bar Team Latin America & Caribbean category (2024).

 

cocktail in coconut cup with leaf detail

 

The Story Behind the Food and Cocktail Menu at Zapote

Defined by the team as a “love letter to the Yucatán Peninsula,” the menu at Zapote showcases the rich natural and cultural heritage of the region, featuring Mexican spirits –from tequila to rum– and local ingredients, such as pumpkin seeds and tomatillo. Each drink tells a story, from the Mayayo (Katun gin, sour orange, guava, and lemon leaves), now a house classic, to the Colibrí (Lillet Blanc, Aperol, olive, lavender, and edible flowers), part of the most recent menu called Call of the Wild. You can also find a selection of fermented drinks, zero-proof cocktails, and Zapote Twists, which offer creative versions of classics like the Daiquiri or the Negroni.

Eating at Zapote is a delight. Flavor-packed and shareable dishes reflect the Peninsula’s rich Lebanese and Middle Eastern heritage, a result of immigration during the Ottoman invasion. No evening at Zapote is complete without an order of guacahini, a rich, creamy combination of guacamole and tahini, paired with warm pita bread. Other favorites include the falafel platter, the catch of the day tiradito, and the grilled chicken, seasoned with spiced yogurt and red peppers. Save room for dessert: the tiramisu pairs perfectly with a Jaguar (Michter’s rye whiskey, banana syrup, chocolate bitters, pumpkin seeds, oat milk, and turmeric).

Want to know where to dine in Mayakoba? Discover the destination’s best restaurants.

 

team of bartenders pose for photo behind zapote bar

 

Meet Zapote’s Bartenders: A Dream Team  

Every drop of magic poured behind the bar and inside the kitchen at Zapote is the result of brilliant teamwork and collaboration. Bartenders, chefs, and servers make each evening at Zapote a memorable experience thanks to their skill, talent, and passion for hospitality. The bar team thrives under Joshua Monaghan’s leadership. Born in León, Guanajuato, Joshua worked at the renowned Fifty Mils at the Four Seasons Hotel Mexico City before heading to the Riviera Maya to embark on his adventure at Zapote. Executive Chef Edgar Chávez oversees the culinary experience, and Alejandra Benítez is the Restaurant Manager, ensuring that every moment spent at Zapote is one of heartfelt hospitality and relaxed luxury.

 

outdoor lounge dining setup

 

Step Into a Modern Hacienda – Discover Zapote’s Interior Design

Inspired by traditional haciendas from the region viewed through a contemporary lens, Zapote features a long bar meant for social encounters and close interaction between the bar team and the guests. A second bar/communal table at the center of the space continues this mission, allowing diners to interact with fellow guests over cocktails and warm, low lighting that creates an inviting atmosphere. Indoor and outdoor seating areas create an airy, relaxed atmosphere, reminding you of the natural beauty that surrounds you. Throughout the space, materials like wood, concrete, and wicker evoke communal spaces like family kitchens and dining areas, complemented with pottery, textiles, and plenty of greenery. The gorgeous space was designed by Mexican design firm Estudio Atemporal and features pieces by local designers and artisans like La Metropolitana, Colectivo 1050, BiYuu, and Taller Nacional.

 

Martes de Locales at Zapote Bar

Tuesdays are usually slow nights for restaurants and bars, but not at Zapote. Here, Martes de Locales is an opportunity for guests to discover creations by guest bartenders from the Riviera Maya, Mexico, and beyond.  Every week, starting at 6:00 PM, Martes de Locales awaits with an atmosphere fueled by creativity and collaboration. Whether you’re staying at Rosewood Mayakoba, another hotel in Mayakoba, or are a local Riviera Maya resident, it’s the perfect opportunity to get a taste of Zapote and discover a new concept. Past guests have included Pietro Collina and Veronica Di Pietrantonio from Viajante Bar in London and Holly Graham from Tokyo Confidential in Tokyo. Live music by DJ duo Frank & Chui keeps the vibes strong throughout the night.

 

contemporary dining room with bar at zapote

 

With a deep love for Mexico and an adventurous spirit, Zapote Bar is a must-visit for cocktail lovers in Riviera Maya. As part of Mayakoba’s varied and exciting dining offerings, it will take you on a journey through Mexico’s traditions, flavors, and ingredients you won’t soon forget. Book your stay through Mayakoba.com now and experience the magic of Zapote Bar.

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