Javi's Cantina · Isla Mujeres

Chef's Table with Javier Martinez

Are you a food enthusiast seeking to elevate your culinary experience? Do you crave the opportunity to delve into the rich flavors and traditions of authentic Mexican cuisine?

Look no further than the exclusive "Chef's Table Tasting with Chef Javier" event at Javi's Cantina. Transform from a curious diner to a culinary connoisseur as you join an intimate group of only 15 guests for an evening of gastronomic delights.

Throughout the evening, you'll indulge in a five-course tasting menu paired with carefully selected wines and craft beers — and witness Chef Javier and his team in action as they prepare each dish.

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Reservations

How to Book for the Chef's Table

Three simple steps to secure your seat at the table.

Choose Your Date

Select your preferred date and time on the calendar below, then fill out the booking form.

Add Your Guests

Booking for more than one? Enter the number of additional guests in the "Add Guest Count" field.

Complete Your Booking

Enter your card details to finalize. You'll receive a confirmation email once it's processed.

Heads up: the person making the booking is already counted and paid for. Only include extra guests in the guest count to avoid being charged twice.

Limited Seating

Don't Miss This Exclusive Evening

Secure your spot at the "Chef's Table Tasting with Chef Javier" event and embark on a culinary adventure that will transform the way you experience Mexican cuisine.

Act now — seats are limited and this unique experience won't last forever. If you hesitate, you risk missing the chance to:

Engage in an intimate, interactive dining experience with a talented chef
Learn about the cultural significance and techniques behind authentic Mexican cuisine
Savor a meticulously crafted five-course tasting menu showcasing the finest flavors
Gain exclusive insights into Chef Javier's culinary journey and inspiration
Create lasting memories with a select group of culinary enthusiasts

$85 USD per person Pre-paid event Limited to 15 guests

Reserve Today

The Experience

What to Expect

As you arrive at Javi's Cantina, you'll be greeted with a signature welcome cocktail crafted by our expert mixologists — a refreshing Smoky Jalapeño Mezcalita or a classic Margarita with a twist — designed to awaken your senses and set the stage for the journey ahead.

COURSE · 01

Amuse Bouche

An amuse-bouche — French for "mouth amuser" — is a small, complimentary hors d'œuvre served at the beginning of a meal in fine dining establishments like Javi's Cantina. Its purpose: to awaken the palate and provide a tantalizing glimpse of the chef's creativity and the flavors to come.

Chef Javier crafts unique and delightful bite-sized creations that showcase the essence of Mexican cuisine — featuring bold flavors, fresh ingredients, and innovative techniques. These small bites arrive on elegant spoons, tiny plates, or in small glasses as a gift from the chef to welcome you to the experience.

COURSE · 02

Appetizers

The signature welcome cocktail leads directly into a curated round of appetizers — carefully designed to awaken your senses and immerse you in the flavors of Mexico from the very first bite.

Whether paired with a refreshing Smoky Jalapeño Mezcalita or a classic Margarita with a twist, these openers set the tone for the rest of the evening's culinary journey.

COURSE · 03

Dinner

For the main course, Chef Javier has crafted a menu that offers something for every palate, celebrating the rich diversity of Mexican cuisine.

Meat lovers will delight in the Mole Negro con Pollo — tender chicken smothered in a rich, dark mole sauce, served with handmade corn tortillas and Mexican rice. For those who prefer seafood, the Pescado Zarandeado features grilled fish marinated in a blend of citrus and spices, accompanied by roasted vegetables and a chorizo-potato hash.

COURSE · 04

Interacting with Chef Javier

What sets the Chef's Table apart from a typical dining experience is the opportunity to interact directly with Chef Javier throughout the evening. As you savor each carefully crafted dish, he shares his inspiration, expertise, and personal stories — giving you a deeper understanding of the flavors, techniques, and cultural significance behind every bite.

Throughout the night, Chef Javier will visit your table — answering questions, sharing anecdotes, and offering insight into his culinary philosophy. You'll feel like a valued guest in his home, privy to his culinary secrets and personal stories.

COURSE · 05

Dessert

No Chef's Table experience would be complete without an indulgent dessert — and Chef Javier has saved the best for last.

The Piña Asada con Cajeta features grilled pineapple served with a luscious avocado coconut ice cream, drizzled with a sweet and creamy cajeta sauce and sprinkled with crunchy, toasted pepitas. A perfect balance of sweet, tropical flavors and rich, indulgent textures — the essence of Mexican desserts captured in every bite.

FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Chef's Table experience?

The Chef's Table experience at Javi's Cantina is an exclusive, intimate dining event where guests enjoy a curated five-course menu showcasing the finest flavors of Mexican cuisine. Chef Javier hosts the event, sharing his passion, expertise, and personal stories behind each carefully crafted dish.

What is included in the price of the Chef's Table event?

The price includes a five-course tasting menu, a welcome cocktail, and one other cocktail. Other beverages may be added to your bill as you order. Gratuity is not included in the price.

How often does the Chef's Table event take place?

The Chef's Table event is held on select dates throughout the year. Please check our website or contact the restaurant directly for upcoming event dates.

Can dietary restrictions be accommodated?

Yes, we can accommodate most dietary restrictions with advance notice. Please inform us of any allergies or dietary restrictions when making your reservation.

What is the dress code for the Chef's Table event?

We recommend nice-casual attire for the Chef's Table event. While we want you to be comfortable, we do ask that guests refrain from wearing beach wear.

Is there a minimum age requirement?

Due to the nature of the event and the inclusion of alcoholic beverage pairings, all guests must be 21 years of age or older to consume. For our guests under the age of 21 — or who prefer an alcohol-free experience — we are happy to provide mocktails.

What is the cancellation policy?

We require a minimum of 72 hours notice for cancellations. Cancellations made within 72 hours of the event will be charged the full price of the reservation.

Can I purchase a gift certificate for the Chef's Table?

Yes, gift certificates are available for purchase and may be used for any event or restaurant dining. Please contact the restaurant directly or visit our website for more information on purchasing gift certificates.

Am I able to pay cash instead of a credit card?

Yes — please make your payment at Javi's Cantina between 5pm–10pm to save your spot. If paying in MXN Pesos, please ask for the correct exchange rate.

Are reservations required?

Yes, reservations are required for the Chef's Table event due to the limited seating and exclusive nature of the experience. Please make your reservation well in advance to secure your spot, as these events tend to fill up quickly.

Why is the Chef's Table event prepaid?

The Chef's Table event is a prepaid experience to ensure that we can provide the highest quality ingredients, curate the perfect wine and beer pairings, and offer an intimate and exclusive dining experience for our guests. Prepayment also helps us minimize cancellations and no-shows, which can impact the overall experience for all attendees.

Is it possible to add more people to my reservation?

Yes, reservations are required and if we have an open seat at the table, we are happy to add another pre-paid guest.

Guest Reviews

What Guests Are Saying

“

We had one of the best culinary experiences on the island. We were fortunate enough to earn a place at the inaugural "Chef's Table Tasting with Chef Javier". Javi's knowledge of the culinary arts was an amazing experience of an impeccable blend of flavors, color, and unique dishes that are products of his familiarity of gastronomy. He entertained us with stories and history throughout the presentation. Keep your eyes open and your ears peeled for the next opportunity. Superb!!

Liz Thompson

TripAdvisor · May 2024

“

Javi is such an interesting teacher and conversationalist along with being a fantastic chef! He taught us about mole sauce, and then we tried it on a delicious tender chicken breast! We had so much fun watching and learning as Javi prepared our delicious pan seared achiote wahoo fillet! The flavors were incredible! I can hardly wait to go back for more of the poblano guacamole, mango coconut ceviche, and avocado ice cream! And the hibiscus margaritas!

Deneen Reynolds Christian

Facebook · May 2024

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