Chef Carlos Gaytán Wins Xueños Award at Xcaret

CANCÚN — The Xcaret Group celebrated the third presentation of the Xueños Award: Mexicans Who Inspire the World, this year bestowing the recognition upon chef Carlos Gaytán. The ceremony was held at the Xcaret park.

Gaytán, a native of Huitzuco, Guerrero, is the first Mexican to receive a Michelin star. Under his direction, the restaurant Ha’, located at the Hotel Xcaret México, obtained a Michelin star in 2024 and repeated the achievement in 2025.

Rodrigo Quintana, from the Corporate Directorate of Xurreal Innovation at Grupo Xcaret, highlighted that the award seeks to recognize Mexican men and women who inspire with their work. "In chef Carlos Gaytán we find a man whose career reflects excellence, creativity, and a profound love for Mexico," he emphasized.

Gaytán emigrated to the United States in his youth and, after years of effort, managed to establish himself as one of the most recognized chefs in international haute cuisine. His proposal combines roots from traditional Mexican cuisine with contemporary techniques.

"I share the same dream with Grupo Xcaret: to show the world the excellence of Mexico. I do it through gastronomy to leave a legacy for the young," said Gaytán.

The Xueños Award distinguishes Mexican men and women who transcend borders with their talent and commitment, becoming ambassadors of the national identity.