Chef Jhonatan de Jesús Oy Pech
Meals on TV and pictures awakened his passion for cooking since he was a kid, as he used to recreate them employing his colors and flavors. Before Jhonatan started his culinary studies, he decided to work in related areas to know the gastronomic industry widely. And Don Cafeto, a popular restaurant in Tulum, was his first approach to professional cooking.
Chef Issac Esparza, the previous chef of Sen Lin at Grand Velas Riviera Maya, was his university professor. He invited Jonathan to be part of the team at the resort, where he began to develop his culinary abilities in Asian cuisine.
In 2017, Executive Chef Wayu "Light" Wattanakamin (Master Chef in Thailand) joined Sen Lin, and during that period, Jhonatan started to learn about traditional Thai cuisine. He participated in popular events, including "The best of Asia," where he worked alongside renowned Asian chefs and during the Sen Lin 4-Diamond accolade. His professional experience at Grand Velas Riviera Maya allowed him to take part in the Lucca and Frida restaurants, both located in the same resort.
In 2022, he was invited to become Executive Chef at Sen Lin, where he created his menu with traditional Asian flavors. His modern touch delights guests' palates as his meals make them feel like they're enjoying a traditional creation, from a pad thai (similar to Mexican tacos in Thailand) to a Peking duck.
Jhonatan describes his cuisine as "fresh and aromatic ingredients with intense and explosive flavors.".