The Soulful Vibe of Coastal Mexico
Nestled within The Cosmopolitan of Las Vegas, Amaya aims to embody the culinary and cultural essence of Mexico’s scenic coastline. This restaurant and supper club concept, a popular Las Vegas dining option, is defined by its focus on soulful, spicy food and an energetic atmosphere. The thoughtful design and unique offerings were meticulously crafted to transport guests and create a memorable experience from the moment they step inside. We were invited in to check out the eclectic menu and stunning architecture and design that make Amaya a true dining experience.
An Immersive Interior
The translation of these concepts into a physical space was a key goal for the design team. As Elina Arzumanova, the Marketing Director for Amaya, explains, “We created an interior design that transports guests to Mexico’s coast – melding warm wood facades, lush greenery, hues suggestive of sand and sea, and dramatic yet inviting lighting. The layout blends intimate alcoves with social spaces lined with textured, nature-inspired design cues. At the same time, live DJs and energetic performance elements bring the spirited, soulful vibe of coastal Mexico to life.” This holistic approach ensures the atmosphere is just as integral to the experience as the food.
A Culinary Approach
The menu is designed to be a reflection of this environment, with a focus on bold and vibrant flavors. Executive Chef Jason McLeod’s culinary philosophy is centered on balancing respect for tradition with modern interpretations. “Mexican cuisine has such a rich history, and we wanted to honor that by staying true to the ingredients and flavors that define it. Many traditional Mexican dishes are rustic and soulful, so our approach was to focus on combining traditional flavors with modern presentations,” he said. This careful balance ensures the food is both authentic and exciting for a Las Vegas audience.
A Menu Crafted with Authenticity and Flavor
The menu at Amaya is a celebration of the sustainable ingredients and dynamic flavors found along the Mexican shoreline. Chef Jason McLeod’s passion for the region’s cuisine is evident in his choice of dishes.
Showcasing Authentic Coastal Dishes
Chef McLeod is particularly passionate about showcasing the culinary traditions of the coastal Baja region. He highlights a few dishes that perfectly exemplify this authentic approach. “Ceviche and aguachile are two of my favorite dishes to eat when visiting the coastal Baja region. At Amaya, the seabass ceviche and shrimp aguachile are the closest to authentic coastal dishes and really reflect those regional flavors,” he said. He also notes the quality of the ingredients, adding that, “The Shrimp Aguachile is a great example of this philosophy. We source the finest Mexican white shrimp, known for their quality and flavor. Mexico is famous for its incredible seafood, especially shellfish, and that inspired us to create this dish.”
A Multisensory Late-Night Experience
Beyond the standard dinner service, Amaya offers a unique late-night dining experience that blends food with immersive entertainment. This after-hours concept, complete with live DJs, fire performers, and vibrant dancers, was inspired by the cultural essence of Mexico. Elina Arzumanova explains the intention behind this innovative offering: “The inspiration came from the dynamic, expressive nature of Mexican culture, one that’s deeply rooted in ritual, rhythm, and communal connection. Our Late Night Dining Experience brings that to life through music, fire and movement, transforming the space into something immersive and emotionally resonant. It allows guests to engage with the culture in a multisensory way that goes far beyond the plate.”
The Takeaway: A Journey, Not Just a Meal
From its meticulously crafted design to its flavorful menu and immersive entertainment, every aspect of Amaya is designed to create a comprehensive and memorable guest experience.
Leaving Inspired and Connected
Ultimately, the restaurant aims to provide more than just a meal; it seeks to offer a cultural and emotional journey. Elina Arzumanova summarizes the single most important message she hopes guests will take away from their experience at Amaya. “At its core, Amaya is about transporting guests – emotionally, sensorially and culturally. Whether through the layered flavors of the food, the immersive design that evokes the raw beauty of coastal Mexico or the late-night performances that pulse with life, we want every guest to leave feeling inspired, connected and awakened. It’s not just a meal or a night out – it’s a journey that celebrates the depth, soul and modern vibrancy of Mexican culture.”
