● Grupo Xcaret presented the 2025 Xueños Award to Chef Carlos Gaytán, the first Mexican to earn a Michelin star and the chef behind the Ha’ restaurant at Hotel Xcaret México.
Xcaret, Riviera Maya, September 5, 2025. Grupo Xcaret held the third edition of the Xueños Award—”Mexicans Who Inspire the World”—honoring Chef Carlos Gaytán. Gaytán is the first Mexican to receive a Michelin star and leads the Ha’ restaurant at Hotel Xcaret México; the restaurant was awarded a Michelin star in 2024 and retained the distinction in 2025.
The “Xueños” award was presented during a ceremony at Xcaret Park, highlighting Gaytán’s career as an example of the discipline, innovation, and passion that have elevated Mexico’s profile on the global stage. With this recognition, Grupo Xcaret celebrates Mexicans who, through their talent and commitment, transcend borders and inspire new generations.
“The Xueños Award was created to recognize Mexicans who make us dream big, inspire us with their stories, and build a better country through their work. This year, in Chef Carlos Gaytán, we found a man whose career reflects excellence, creativity, and a deep love for Mexico—values that deeply resonate with us at Grupo Xcaret,” noted Rodrigo Quintana, Head of Corporate Innovation (Xurreal) at Grupo Xcaret.
Chef Carlos Gaytán, a native of Huitzuco, Guerrero, emigrated to the United States in his youth. Through hard work and determination, he became one of the most renowned chefs on the international scene. His culinary style is celebrated for blending the roots of traditional Mexican cuisine with the innovation of contemporary fine dining.
“I am very grateful to Grupo Xcaret because we share the same dream: to showcase Mexico’s excellence to the world. I do this through gastronomy to leave a legacy for young people, so they may continue building a better future,” said Chef Carlos Gaytán during the ceremony. The Xueños Award recognizes Mexicans who, through their achievements and contributions, become ambassadors of our identity and national pride. The honorees exemplify how dreams are realized through discipline, creativity, and commitment, inspiring new generations to achieve their goals.
True to the values of Grupo Xcaret, this award aligns with its purpose of “Making the planet happier by sharing our great love for Mexico,” highlighting careers—such as that of Carlos Gaytán—that have left a mark both nationally and internationally, paving the way toward a brighter horizon for our country’s future generations.
