Alux Restaurant and Lounge is newly open to tourists in Playa del Carmen, Mexico, but the space has been open for over 10,000 years. That's because the restaurant, bar, and lounge is located inside of a natural underground cavern, giving drinkers and diners the opportunity to spend an evening among stalactites and the ocean current that passes through.
The restaurant serves upscale traditional Mexican dishes as well as pre-Hispanic fare, and it strives to add an international touch. The bar serves wine stored in the cellar, which, thanks to the cavern's natural properties, is directly on the premises.
Alux Restaurant and Lounge takes its name from the Aluxes, mystical Mayan elves that were said to come out in the moonlight and search for places to hide. Considering the restaurant's hidden locale and ancient history, it's a fitting title.
Key Themes Behind This Trend
- Underground Dining
- Explore the potential of creating unique dining experiences in underground spaces, utilizing natural elements for an immersive atmosphere.
- Ancient-themed Hospitality
- Tap into the allure of ancient history by incorporating traditional and pre-Hispanic elements into hotel and restaurant designs.
- Natural Wine Cellars
- Embrace disruptive innovation in the wine industry by utilizing naturally cool and atmospheric spaces, such as underground caverns, for wine cellars and tasting rooms.
Where This Applies
- Hospitality
- The hospitality industry can leverage the appeal of unique and immersive underground spaces to create captivating guest experiences.
- Restaurant and Food Service
- Incorporating ancient and traditional elements into menus and dining spaces can offer a distinct and memorable dining experience.
- Wine and Beverage
- Exploring natural storage options like underground caverns can revolutionize wine cellars and tasting rooms, creating a unique selling point for wineries and wine enthusiasts.
