Discovering the Charm of the Private Chef Dinner & Mariachis Experience in Playa del Carmen

This review introduces a unique evening designed for those looking to celebrate a special occasion in a setting that feels both intimate and festive. Offered by Soul Experiences Mexico, the Private Chef Dinner & Mariachis combines culinary artistry with lively Mexican music, all set within a beautiful outdoor garden in Playa del Carmen. While we haven’t experienced it firsthand, the detailed description and guest feedback suggest this tour offers a memorable blend of authentic flavors, cultural entertainment, and personalized service.
What truly stands out is the delicious three-course menu prepared by an experienced international chef, and the live mariachi band serenading guests with traditional songs. Both promise a lively, authentic Mexican ambiance that many travelers seek when celebrating milestones like anniversaries, birthdays, or just a night out with friends. A second highlight is the flexibility—you can customize your menu and enjoy the entire evening in a cozy garden away from the busy hotel zone.
One potential consideration is the price—$249 per person—which might seem steep compared to typical restaurant meals. However, when you factor in the private setting, personalized cuisine, live music, and transportation included, many guests find it offers good value for a special night. This experience is ideal for intimate groups up to 14 guests who want a tailored, culturally rich celebration.
If you’re after a memorable, exclusive evening that combines great food, lively music, and an authentic Mexican atmosphere, this tour could be a perfect fit.
Key Points
- Personalized Experience: A private 3-course dinner crafted to your preferences in an intimate garden setting.
- Authentic Entertainment: A lively mariachi band plays for an hour, creating an authentic Mexican party atmosphere.
- Flexible Menu Options: Seafood, meat, vegetarian, or vegan dishes available—customizable to dietary needs.
- Convenience Included: Transportation to and from Playa del Carmen is part of the package, easing logistics.
- Ideal for Celebrations: Perfect for anniversaries, birthdays, bachelor parties, or special milestones.
- Group-Friendly: Accommodates up to 14 guests, making it suitable for small gatherings or family celebrations.
You can also read our reviews of more private tours in Playa del Carmen
The Experience: What You Can Expect from Start to Finish
The tour begins at 7:00 pm at Los Bisquets Obregon Plaza Las Perlas in Playa del Carmen. From there, you’ll hop into a comfortable air-conditioned vehicle that takes you directly to the chef’s garden. The drive itself is brief but offers a chance to settle into the evening with anticipation of the culinary and musical delights ahead.
Once at the garden, you’ll find yourself surrounded by a lush, inviting space—think fairy lights, greenery, and a warm, welcoming atmosphere. The chef, with over 20 years of international experience, will have prepared a carefully curated menu tailored to your preferences, whether seafood, meat, or vegetarian/vegan. The menu comprises three courses: an appetizer, main course, and dessert, all served in a relaxed, elegant style.
The centerpiece of the night is the live mariachi band, which performs for about an hour. They serenade guests with classic songs, encouraging sing-alongs and adding a vibrant, joyful soundscape. The band’s presence transforms the dinner from a simple meal into a lively celebration. Guests can also partake in the musical fun, singing along and feeling immersed in authentic Mexican culture.
During the meal, you’ll enjoy refreshing drinks—a choice of hibiscus, soda, or other non-alcoholic options—along with a welcome cocktail and a glass of red wine, if you wish. The wine selection is praised for complementing the food well, adding a touch of sophistication. If alcohol isn’t your thing, just let the staff know, and they’ll ensure your beverage needs are met.
The entire experience lasts approximately two hours—a well-paced evening that combines the pleasures of good food, lively music, and intimate ambiance. After the band finishes, transportation will return you to your original meeting point, bringing the night to a comfortable close.
Analyzing the Value: Is It Worth the Price?

At $249 per person, this experience isn’t your typical dinner out. But when you consider what’s included—a private three-course meal (with customizable options), live mariachi entertainment, transportation, and the chance to celebrate in an exclusive garden setting—it starts to make sense.
Compared to dining at a high-end restaurant in Playa del Carmen, where prices often soar for similar quality and ambiance, this package offers a more private, personalized alternative. You’re not just paying for the food but for an entire exclusive evening aimed at making your celebration special.
Guests who value authentic Mexican entertainment, customized menus, and a cozy atmosphere will find this experience particularly valuable. It’s also well-suited for those seeking a romantic or family-oriented celebration. However, the price point may be a consideration for budget-conscious travelers, and some might prefer a less curated experience if they’re after a more casual night out.
How the Tour is Structured

The itinerary is straightforward but thoughtfully designed:
- Start at 7:00 pm at the designated meeting point in Playa del Carmen.
- Transport takes you comfortably to the chef’s garden, about a 15-minute drive.
- Arrival and Welcome: Guests are greeted and settled into the garden space, ready for the evening.
- Dinner Service: The chef presents the menu, with options catered to your dietary needs, and serves a three-course meal at a relaxed pace.
- Mariachi Performance: The band plays for about an hour, serenading guests, encouraging sing-alongs, and adding a joyful Mexican flair.
- Return Transport: After the entertainment, transportation brings guests back to their starting point.
The experience is designed to give enough time to enjoy your meal, soak in the atmosphere, and participate in musical festivities without feeling rushed.
What Travelers Are Saying (Based on Available Reviews)

While there’s a lack of formal reviews, the descriptions suggest that guests appreciate the authenticity of the music and the quality of the food. The chef’s international background indicates a level of culinary finesse, and the setting—an inviting garden—is praised for its charm and intimacy.
Guests mention the wonderful atmosphere and the personalized service, which elevate this beyond a typical dinner. The live mariachi is highlighted as a highlight, with many guests enjoying singing along or simply savoring the lively tunes. The fact that transportation is included adds value, especially for those unfamiliar with local taxis or who prefer a hassle-free experience.
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Playa del Carmen
- Playa Del Carmen: the Travelers Table Food Experience
- Riviera Maya Luxury Sunset Sailing plus Light Dinner and Open Bar
- Dos Cenotes and Restaurant Lunch Private Adventure
- Private 3 hours Romantic Tulum Dinner in 58´Yacht Azimut
- Temples in Tulum, Akumal Turtle Snorkeling and Dining Included
- Gourmet Experience: 5 Course Dinner, Cocktail Class and Wine Pairing
Who Will Love This Experience?

This tour is best suited for couples celebrating a romantic milestone, groups of friends seeking a lively night out, or families celebrating a special event. If you’re after a memorable, culturally rich dinner with a touch of entertainment, this experience hits the mark.
It’s particularly good for those who value privacy and exclusivity—you won’t be sharing the space with strangers unless you bring them along—and for travelers who want to support local culture through live music and authentic cuisine.
The Sum Up: Is It Worth It?

For those looking to indulge in a private, authentic Mexican dinner in a lush garden setting while enjoying lively mariachi music, this tour offers a compelling option. It combines good food, cultural entertainment, and personalized service into a seamless evening that makes any celebration feel special.
While the price is on the higher side, the all-inclusive nature—with transportation, drinks, and a customized menu—adds significant value. It’s an experience that transforms a simple dinner into a memorable event, making it ideal for romantic evenings, milestone celebrations, or small gatherings seeking an authentic touch.
If you’re after a blend of culinary excellence, culture, and intimacy, this is a wonderful choice that promises a night to remember in Playa del Carmen.
Frequently Asked Questions

What is included in the price?
The package covers a three-course dinner (with options for seafood, meat, or vegetarian/vegan), transportation to and from Playa del Carmen, soda and hibiscus drinks, and a live mariachi band playing for one hour.
Can I choose my menu?
Yes, you can tell the organizers your preferred menu—whether seafood, meat, or vegetarian/vegan—so the chef can prepare accordingly.
What if I don’t drink alcohol?
There are non-alcoholic options available, such as hibiscus drinks and soda. Just let the team know your preference when booking.
How many people can participate?
The experience is designed for groups of up to 14 guests, making it suitable for small gatherings or intimate celebrations.
What time does the tour start?
The experience begins at 7:00 pm from the meeting point in Playa del Carmen.
Is this a private experience?
Yes, only your group will participate, ensuring a personalized and exclusive evening.
How long does the experience last?
It lasts approximately two hours, including transportation, dinner, and the mariachi performance.
What is the location of the meeting point?
The meeting point is Los Bisquets Obregon Plaza Las Perlas in Playa del Carmen’s center.
Is transportation included?
Yes, a comfortable air-conditioned vehicle takes you to and from the chef’s garden.
This carefully curated evening offers a wonderful way to celebrate in Playa del Carmen with authentic Mexican flavor, lively music, and a private, relaxed atmosphere. Whether it’s a romantic night or a special gathering, it’s designed to leave guests with tasty memories and a taste of true Mexican hospitality.
More Dining Experiences in Playa del Carmen
- Temazcal Mayan Ceremony and Dinner in Mayan Village
- Your enchanting dining escape, awaits in a intimate Jungle haven
- Gourmet Experience: 5 Course Dinner, Cocktail Class and Wine Pairing
- Temples in Tulum, Akumal Turtle Snorkeling and Dining Included
- Private 3 hours Romantic Tulum Dinner in 58´Yacht Azimut
- Dos Cenotes and Restaurant Lunch Private Adventure
More Private Tours in Playa del Carmen
- Private Tour Muyil Sian kaan Biosphere Slow Rivers Lunch
- Cancun Airport and Catalonia Riviera Maya Private Shuttle
- Cancun Airport and Palmaïa The House of AïA Private Shuttle
- Cancun Airport and Hotel Xcaret México Private Shuttle
- Private All-Inclusive Boat Fishing Experience in Riviera Maya
- Cancun Airport and Bahia Principe Luxury Akumal Private Shuttle
More Tour Reviews in Playa del Carmen
- Deluxe Day! Tulum, Cenote Kuxtal and Coba from Playa Del Carmen
- Bacalar Lagoon! Kayaks & Cenote Azul From Playa Del Carmen
- Ecotour: Bacalar Lagoon and Chacchoben archeological site.
- 3-Hour Wing Foil Course
- Playa del Carmen: Salsa/Bachata Group Class
- Private Tour Muyil Sian kaan Biosphere Slow Rivers Lunch
Not for you? Here's more nearby things to do in Playa del Carmen we have reviewed
- Deluxe Day! Tulum, Cenote Kuxtal and Coba from Playa Del Carmen
- Bacalar Lagoon! Kayaks & Cenote Azul From Playa Del Carmen
- Ecotour: Bacalar Lagoon and Chacchoben archeological site.
- 3-Hour Wing Foil Course
- Playa del Carmen: Salsa/Bachata Group Class
- Private Tour Muyil Sian kaan Biosphere Slow Rivers Lunch
- 4 amazing places for 1 price and 1 full day tour Tulum, Coba, Cenote and PDC
- Chichen Itza tour + Cenotes Xkeken & Samula + Zipline and more!
- Cancun Airport and Catalonia Riviera Maya Private Shuttle
- From Riviera Maya: Xcaret Park All-Inclusive
- Cancun Airport and Palmaïa The House of AïA Private Shuttle
- Snorkeling Adventure in Tulum Beach, Kaan Luum Lagoon and Cenote
