Chef Mariano Takinami Joins Bahia Hotel & Beach House as Executive Chef, Bringing Fresh Energy to Bar Esquina and SUR Beach House in Cabo San Lucas

Written By: Rajesh Mazumder

Rajesh Mazumder

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April 23, 2025 00:44 GMT+5:30

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Bahia Hotel & Beach House, a member of the Preferred Hotels & Resorts Lifestyle Collection, is excited to announce the appointment of Chef Mariano Takinami as Executive Chef. Chef Mariano will lead the culinary teams at Bahia’s renowned restaurants, Bar Esquina and SUR Beach House, bringing fresh inspiration to the hotel’s celebrated dining program in the heart of Cabo San Lucas’ dynamic Médano Beach District.

Chef Mariano is an esteemed culinary professional with over 20 years of experience across five countries, having worked in some of the world’s most renowned kitchens. His career includes notable roles as Corporate Executive Chef at Belmond Hotels in both Peru and Thailand, General Director at Sabor a Madera Restaurant Group (where Carbon Cabron and Nao earned Michelin Guide recommendations under his leadership), and General Manager of Napasai in Koh Samui, Thailand. He has also made his mark in Cabo, leading the kitchens at Toro Latin Kitchen by Richard Sandoval and Templo Grill Wok Bar.

“Chef Mariano is more than a chef—he’s a storyteller, and his food has always created connection,” said Felipe Rebelo, Managing Director and Partner of Bahia Hotel & Beach House. “At Bahia, our restaurants are gathering places with soul. We are honored to welcome his leadership, talent and passion to our team.”

Bar Esquina, a long-time favorite among locals and travelers alike, is renowned for its Mediterranean-influenced Baja cuisine, an open kitchen, and its lively ambiance filled with music and social energy. Meanwhile, SUR Beach House offers a serene oceanfront experience on Médano Beach, combining a relaxed Baja beach house atmosphere with vibrant beachside dining, breathtaking views, and a laid-back yet engaging environment. SUR draws in a diverse crowd—from savvy travelers to couples and wedding parties—seeking the perfect seaside escape.

Chef Mariano’s expertise in multiple languages—Spanish, English, Portuguese, and Japanese—combined with his culinary training in Japan, Argentina, Switzerland, and the United States (Cornell University), makes him a perfect fit for Bahia’s innovative culinary program, adding a multicultural touch to its already vibrant offerings.

“Bar Esquina and SUR already hold a special place in Cabo’s culinary story,” said Chef Takinami. “I’m excited to build on that legacy—with dishes that surprise, comfort, and connect people at the table.”

Photo Credit: Bahia Hotel & Beach House