Connect with us

Travel

11 Best All-inclusive Resorts for Foodies

Published

on

11 Best All-inclusive Resorts for Foodies

All-inclusive resorts have done quite the rebrand. Not more than a decade ago, most all-inclusive resorts carried reputations of lengthy buffet lines, cheesy theme nights, and watered-down drinks. We’ve come a long way, baby.

The culinary programs at all-inclusive resorts have been completely reimagined, swapping sub-par menus for gourmet culinary experiences. This year alone, several all-inclusive resorts in Mexico are boasting Michelin-starred restaurants — a standout for me being Cocina de Autor at Grand Velas’ properties in Los Cabos and Riviera Maya. Others worldwide have their menus curated by Michelin-starred chefs, while others wow with spectacular settings and innovative epicurean experiences.

Today’s all-inclusive resorts woo with multi-course tasting menus, wine-pairings, and unique culinary experiences, from curated picnics to Dine Around programs, so guests can taste the local restaurants at no additional cost. Foodies who once shied away from booking all-inclusive resorts may suddenly be hungering for these now-world-renowned gourmet experiences.

To help narrow the search, we’ve rounded up 11 of the best all-inclusive resorts for foodies worldwide.

Courtesy of Grand Velas


Also available to book at Expedia.com

“Best” all-inclusive resort is always subjective. But when we’re talking about the best all-inclusive resorts for foodies, particularly in Los Cabos, I will firmly stand behind Grand Velas Los Cabos and Grand Velas Boutique Los Cabos. The sister resorts sit beside each other, with the latter reserved for adults only. Both resorts, however, have prioritized the culinary program as one of its structural pillars. It’s no surprise that one of its signature restaurants, Cocina de Autor, was recently awarded a Michelin star. The multi-course tasting menu, helmed by Sidney Schutte, takes diners on a culinary journey, with a dimly lit, sumptuous dining room to set the scene. Unlike other all-inclusive resorts, where premium dining experiences may come at an extra charge, this Michelin-starred masterpiece is included in the room rate. But the epicurean goodies don’t stop there. Velas 10 is equally a standout for its signature steaks and decadent side dishes. Meanwhile, Loto Robata Grill is exclusive to Grand Velas Boutique guests and is under Schutte’s creative direction.

The Details:

  • Location: Tourist Corridor, Los Cabos
  • What’s included: Wi-Fi, parking, daily stocked premium mini-bar
  • Number of dining locations: 7 at Grand Velas Los Cabos; 3 at Grand Velas Boutique Los Cabos
  • Closest airport: SJD
  • Starting rates: $1,346 per night

Courtesy of Grand Velas


Also available to book at Expedia.com

There isn’t much Grand Velas Riviera Nayarit can’t do. As one of the few actual five-star luxury all-inclusive resorts in the Puerto Vallarta area, this 267-suite property has been a Travel + Leisure reader favorite for years. It is one of the best family-friendly all-inclusive resorts, with a dedicated baby concierge and a tiny tots spa menu, and an impeccable culinary program for discerning adults. The three tables to book here are at the four specialty restaurants: Lucca for Italian, Frida for Mexican, Sen Lin for Asian fusion, and Piaf for French. Note that Piaf is reserved for adults only, which makes it the most romantic and high-end dining experience at the resort.

The Details:

  • Location: Nuevo Nayarit
  • What’s included: Kids’ and Teen’s clubs, 24-hour room service, wi-fi, parking
  • Number of dining locations: 9
  • Closest airport: PVR
  • Starting rates: $1,015 per night

Courtesy of Grand Velas


Also available to book at Expedia.com

Grand Velas Riviera Maya is undoubtedly a Grande Dame of the Mexican Caribbean. The all-suite hotel, a 2021 World’s Best Awards winner, is known for its spectacular beachfront, onsite mangroves and cenobites, and some of the largest suites in the region. Butler service, holistic healing rituals, and private plunge pools help to sustain this resort’s reputation as one of the best in the country. Its now-Michelin-rated dining is another reason to add this all-inclusive resort to the bucket list.

“My top recommendation for all-inclusive hotels for foodie clients, whether families or couples, is the Grand Velas resorts. They truly set the gold standard for all-inclusive resorts in Mexico,” said Hannah Breckner, a Fora advanced travel advisor focusing on luxury Mexico travel. “Recently, the Michelin Guide for Mexico awarded Michelin Stars to both Cocina de Autor restaurants at Grand Velas Los Cabos and Grand Velas Riviera Maya — a huge testament to the hotel group’s commitment to exceptional dining experiences, making them the only all-inclusive hotel group in the world with two Michelin-starred restaurants.”

The Details:

  • Location: Playa del Carmen
  • What’s included: Wi-fi, Fitness classes, pool and beach concierge, kids’ and teens’ club
  • Number of dining locations: 8
  • Closest airport: CUN
  • Starting rates: $1,281 per night

Courtesy of Palmaia


Also available to book at Tripadvisor.com

Eco-chic to the core, Palmaia — The House of Aia in Playa del Carmen is a true sanctuary of serenity, fringed on either end by thick jungle and the turquoise waves of the Caribbean Sea. Verdant gardens webbed with meandering pathways set the scene for a bohemian, beachy experience, where the commitment to wellness and sustainability is a cut above, even in its impressive culinary program. The unique food concept at Palmaia revolves around a Nourishing Biome concept, where everything you eat is designed for optimal health. Chef Charly Garcia has created a profoundly nourishing (and visually stunning) menu where 90 percent of dishes are prepared with natural ingredients. The resort promises zero refined sugars, no refined seed oils, and a commitment to include fermented food options. While the plant-based food options genuinely shine here, carnivores won’t be left out, as menus also include a healthy dose of meat and fish — locally sourced.

“Palmaïa – The House of AïA near Playa del Carmen is also on my radar for foodies,” added Breckner. “This all-inclusive wellness retreat offers plant-based and vegan menus at all of its restaurants, catering to health-conscious travelers.”

The Details:

  • Location: Playa del Carmen
  • What’s included: Rituals of Sound Series, Solo Beach Club & Premium Bar, Fitness center, Wi-Fi, parking
  • Number of dining locations: 5
  • Closest airport: CUN
  • Starting rates: $1,421 per night

Courtesy of Hotel Xcaret


Also available to book at Tripadvisor.com

To be honest, I typically shy away from resorts with hundreds of rooms. But I will make the exception exclusively for Hotel Xcaret Mexico (and the adults-only sister resort, Hotel Xcaret Arte). While both resorts have 900 rooms, the property is so special, with many things to see and do, that I never feel overwhelmed. A winner of the World’s Best Awards in 2021 and 2023, Hotel Xcaret Mexico added another feather to its cap in 2024 with a Michelin star in its HA’ Restaurant. The first restaurant in Grupo Xcaret to be awarded a Michelin star, HA’ serves a nine-course tasting menu, each paired with wines and spirits. But the resort’s other restaurants equally tantalize the tastebuds with exquisite attention to detail. Cantina Los Faroles is evocative of the plazas of Oaxaca, serving a menu that highlights Oaxacan gastronomy. You’ll also find Italian cuisine, Mexican, a steakhouse, and a vegan restaurant.

The Details:

  • Location: Playa del Carmen
  • What’s included: Airport transfers, Wi-Fi, unlimited access to Grupo Xcaret theme parks
  • Number of dining locations: 12
  • Closest airport: CUN
  • Starting rates: $719 per night

Joe McNally


Also available to book at Expedia.com

Few places are as worth the splurge as the architectural wonder Jade Mountain in St. Lucia. I added the five-star resort to my bucket list back when I started as a travel writer, and when I had the opportunity to visit, I felt like I had earned my stripes in the business. Every facet of the resort is meant to leave your jaw on the floor, from the open-air suites called Sanctuaries, with snapshot-perfect views of the Pitons, to the iridescent private plunge pools in every room, the rugged volcanic jungle landscape and the warm energy from its staff. In between these mouth-agape moments, you’re dining at the exceptional Jade Mountain Club. Underneath an inky blanket of stars with the hunky silhouettes of the Pitons melting into the velvety black, this signature dining experience is helmed by James Beard Award-winning chef Allen Susser. Guests of Jade Mountain have access to the sister resort restaurants at Anse Chastanet just down the hill. The toes-in-the-sand experience at Anse Mamin Jungle Grill is a must, particularly noteworthy for its lengthy list of delectable burgers.

The Details:

  • Location: Soufriere, St. Lucia
  • What’s included: Wi-Fi, private in-room infinity pool, daily guided walks and hikes
  • Number of dining locations: 1
  • Closest airport: UVF
  • Starting rates: $2,420 per night

Courtesy of Spice Island Beach Resort


Also available to book at Tripadvisor.com

With a reputation as one of the finest Caribbean hotels, Spice Island Beach Resort boasts a dreamy color palette of white sand beach, turquoise, and tropical green. The decidedly five-star resort exudes a laid-back vibe, overlooking one of the most beautiful beaches in the Caribbean. Entry-level rooms start at 1,440 square feet, while just one category up introduces private plunge pools. Additional amenities include a decadent spa and a yoga program. The award-winning restaurants include Oliver Restaurant for Creole-Caribbean fare and Sea and Surf Terrace & Bar for an oceanfront grill experience. Don’t miss the weekly Sunday barbecue lunch buffet, bringing chefs from around the island to serve their favorite dishes.

The Details:

  • Location: Grenada
  • What’s included: In-room mini bar, non-motorized water sports, fitness center, Nutmeg Pod Activity Center for Kids
  • Number of dining locations: 2
  • Closest airport: GND
  • Starting rates: $1,150 per night

Courtesy of Saffire Freycinet


Also available to book at Kayak.com

One of Australia’s most luxurious nature escapes, Saffire Freycinet can seamlessly blend the highest level of modern creature comforts and design with sustainability and conservation. Guests are greeted at the resort with wraparound views of Wineglass Bay and the Hazards Mountains, while the resort’s signature Tasmanian Devils program aims to protect the endemic species from extinction. The all-inclusive 20-suite lodge has an enviable location within Tasmania’s Freycinet National Park — a futuristic design that stands out against the raw, undisturbed natural environment. In addition to its conservation efforts, the resort prides itself on harnessing its natural environment to produce stunning cuisine, from cool-climate boutique wines to a daily parade of shellfish, grass-fed beef and lamb, and locally grown herbs, spices, and produce.

The Details:

  • Location: Tasmania, Australia
  • What’s included: Daily replenished minibar, $100-$200 property credit, complimentary experiences and activities
  • Number of dining locations: 1
  • Closest airport: HBA
  • Starting rates: $1,870 per night

Courtesy of Twin Farms


Rustic New England country charm meets a sleek design and modern amenities at this 300-acre Vermont retreat. Twin Farms is an intimate, 28-room hotel thoroughly designed around a “choose your own adventure” ethos — with cuisine at its core. Whether that’s private dinners in the room, intimate picnics in the forest, skiing the private mountain, or indulging in the on-site Bridge House Spa, Twin Farms is one of the most exclusive and idyllic all-inclusive hotels — and it’s right here in the U.S. The culinary and wine program is central to the Twin Farms experience. The room rate includes all meals and wine pairings, whether that’s dining indoors or out on a picnic adventure. The picnics at Twin Farms are part of its signature mark, whether it’s canapés in the forest or gourmet sandwiches at the top of a mountain peak.

The Details:

  • Location: Barnard, Vermont
  • What’s included: Art tour, Wi-Fi, fitness center, customized picnics
  • Number of dining locations: 2
  • Closest airport: BTV
  • Starting rates: $2,950

Courtesy of Ikos, Andalucia


Also available to book at Tripadvisor.com

Along the sun-splashed Costa del Sol, Ikos Andalusia is a luxe all-inclusive resort that seems to hit every note. Bookended between Estepona and Marbella, the resort is a visual stunner, offering a little bit of everything for couples, families, and groups of friends. The resort splays out across 15 acres of delicious golden sand. A selection of tiered pools spills down towards the shoreline. Rooms are minimalist and chic, with a white-and-cream color palette that lets the colors from the sea do the talking. The spotlight shines on its restaurants, whose menus were curated by Michelin-starred chefs. Menu items are paired with a dizzying selection of 300 premium wines. Moreover, the all-inclusive resort has a Dine Out program for guests to sample several restaurants in Marbella at no additional cost.

The Details:

  • Location: Málaga, Spain
  • What’s included: Wi-Fi, evening entertainment, fully stocked mini-bars
  • Number of dining locations: 9
  • Closest airport: AGP
  • Starting rates: $553 per night

Courtesy of Casa de Campo


Also available to book at Tripadvisor.com

Casa de Campo has been an iconic fixture along the spectacular southern coast of the Dominican Republic since the 1970s. It was the first luxury resort to open in the Dominican Republic, with original interior designs from Oscar de la Renta, and has only upped the ante since then. Today, the five-star palatial paradise sits on over 7,000 acres, featuring 247 guest rooms and 50 private homes. Guests can opt into the all-inclusive package to save themselves the sticker shock of the restaurant menu prices, which are considerably higher than other places on the island. But the all-inclusive package will be worth the splurge for unlimited access to the fine dining restaurants on the property. Only two of the 10 are eliminated from the all-inclusive rate.

The Details:

  • Location: La Romana, Dominican Republic
  • What’s included: Unlimited horseback riding and non-motorized sports, family activities, Wi-Fi
  • Number of dining locations: 8 for the all-inclusive package
  • Closest airport: PUJ
  • Starting rates: $636 per night

Know Before You Go

  • Vibe Check: All-inclusive resorts may have the all-inclusive part in common, but each resort has its own distinct vibe. Be sure you’re clear on what kind of all-inclusive resort you’re booking, as some are geared towards families, others to couples, and others to groups looking for lots of activities and parties.
  • Know What’s Included: All-inclusive refers to food, beverage, and specific activities. But it does not include everything. Spa treatments, airport transfers, and even some premium menu items may be an extra charge. Always check beforehand so you know exactly what you’re paying for.
  • Get Off Property: Just because you’re in an all-inclusive resort does not mean you’re bound to the resort for your entire vacation. If the mood strikes, venture off the property to explore the destination.

How We Chose These Hotels

Selecting the best all-inclusive resorts for foodies involves a deep dive into the best all-inclusive resorts worldwide. Several of the hotels on this list made the cut because they’ve earned a spot in our annual World’s Best awards, in which hundreds of thousands of T+L readers vote on their favorite hotels around the globe.

In addition to those award-winning properties, author Meagan Drillinger contributed her expertise, particularly with the selections for Mexico. She has spent the past 15 years covering Mexico and, in that time, has visited hundreds of resorts in the country. She also consulted colleagues and travel advisors and dug through hundreds of reviews. She focused on resorts with award-winning culinary programs, standout dining experiences, and Michelin recognition to make her selection.

And finally, as with all our hotel roundups, editors ensure all hotel recommendations we make align with our core T+L Hotel Values.

Continue Reading