Casa Chameleon, renowned for its excellence at Las Catalinas, has introduced the inaugural Flavors Beyond Borders culinary extravaganza, a four-day epicurean journey taking place from March 6-10, 2024. This extraordinary event features culinary luminaries trained at the prestigious Culinary Institute of America (CIA). Among them are Chefs Dara Yu, Sophia Ruiz, Evelyn Garcia, and Sarah Thompson, who will lead master classes, exclusive tastings, and themed dinners highlighting their culinary prowess and the distinctive flavors of Costa Rica. Proceeds from the event will support CIA student scholarships.
Chef Dara Yu, a 2021 CIA graduate, has a remarkable culinary journey that began at age 12 and includes triumphs such as placing second in the inaugural season of MasterChef Junior. With a high honors degree in Baking and Pastry Arts, Chef Yu returned to win the 12th season of “MasterChef: Back to Win” after honing her skills in Los Angeles kitchens.
Chef Sophia Ruiz, a 2023 CIA alumna, specializes in the art of baking and pastries. Since graduating, she has contributed her talents to Lafayette Grand Café and Bakery, a prominent establishment in New York City.
Chef Evelyn Garcia, a 2010 CIA graduate, spent over a decade refining her skills in New York’s culinary scene before returning to Texas to open Jūn & Kin HTX, a celebrated Houston-based Southeast Asian restaurant and wine bar. She was also a finalist on Bravo TV’s Top Chef and received acclaim for her restaurant, Jūn, as a James Beard Foundation Awards semi-finalist.
Chef Sarah Thompson, Executive Chef at Casa Playa, has a passion for Mexican cuisine and a commitment to championing women in the culinary industry. Her culinary journey led her to top establishments like Cosme, where she cultivated her expertise in fine dining Mexican cuisine.
Flavors Beyond Borders promises an exclusive and immersive experience for guests eager to explore diverse culinary and cultural landscapes. Hosted across Casa Chameleon’s various venues, including Sentido Norte, La Pampa Grill, Grotto 12°, and the newly unveiled Green House, each day begins with a wellness activity such as yoga or meditation, followed by culinary experiences curated by the guest chefs.
Collaborating with Casa Chameleon’s culinary team, Chefs Dara D Yu, Sophia Ruiz, Evelyn Garcia, and Sarah Thompson craft nightly feasts using locally sourced ingredients, offering guests a taste of their heritage and culinary philosophy. Themed dinners like ‘The Road Less Traveled: An Introduction to Local Foraged Food’ and ‘Ancestral BBQ’ showcase the chefs’ creativity and expertise.
As a Relais & Châteaux property, Casa Chameleon is committed to sustainability, exceptional cuisine, and personalized service. With a focus on locally sourced ingredients and partnerships with nearby farmers and fishermen, the hotel ensures a culinary experience that is both fresh and environmentally conscious. Guests can indulge in unforgettable gastronomic adventures at any of Casa Chameleon’s four dining venues.
The Flavors Beyond Borders culinary event package starts at $10,995 per couple (taxes and fees extra), inclusive of four nights’ accommodation in a private villa with a plunge pool, daily breakfast and lunch, four themed evening culinary experiences, cooking demonstrations, daily activities, and social programming. Pricing also includes all wine and beverages.
