MEXOTIK Receives Certificate OF Excellence

Daniel Murillo, originally from Mexico City, spent over 20 years drifting from place to place and gaining cooking experience along the way. It was in Bali, Indonesia, that he had an epiphany, and decided to create a style of cooking that stands out from the rest. He returned to Mexico and opened Mexotik three years ago. This outstanding restaurant located in San Pancho, just a short drive from Sayulita, is a must try, having just received a 2016 Certificate of Excellence.

So, tell me more about earning the Certificate of Excellence 2016 from Trip Advisor. How does one earn this certificate?

A couple of months ago, my wife and I were sent a notification with this award, which is based on the reviews that our customers have been posting during the past season. I’m really grateful for this achievement!

What do you think you specifically did to help earn this award?

Once again, this award is based on the reviews that people posted. In fact, I didn´t know that we were on their website. One day a client told me, “You should check it out, there´s quite a few comments about your work ”.

How does it feel to have earned the 2016 Certificate of Excellence Awards? What does it mean to you?

I think that more than anything, it means that we are making a difference. My goal is to preserve the traditional Mexican cuisine with a new face, combining spices from all over the globe with the sole idea of creating something outstanding. This award came at the perfect moment. Having a restaurant is a major task and it takes even more to succeed. I know what it takes - endless hours of work, little time for the family - it´s hard, but on the other hand, it´s encouraging. I finally see that we are doing things right. I´m still far from the level I want to get, but one thing is for sure  - I am making my path.

Does this honor change anything for your business?

This award doesn't change anything. We always put our heart in every dish, but yes, it´s a good reminder to keep looking forward. 

You were just featured on Beach Bites with Katie Lee on June 30th. Will you tell me more about this?

A few months ago I received a phone call - somebody from New York.  He said, “We checked your profile and you qualified for our show”.  At first I didn´t believe it, so I hung up. Then this guy called again just to tell me that the offer was legit.  He sent me a message with all the information and that was it. They did a couple of filming  sessions and I have to say that it was a fun experience. Even more after having seen the show that was on last Thursday on THE COOKING CHANNEL

How would you describe your culinary style?

My cooking style definitely is Fusion. I don´t like to follow recipes over and over again. There´s so many spices out there. You just need to be creative.

What dish do you make that really sets you apart from other restaurants in Sayulita and the surrounding areas?  

MMMhhh… We  have a few really good dishes on our menu, but one that has been a top seller is the filet mignon cooked in a three smoked pepper sauce and cherry wine, served over chickpea crispy polenta goat cheese and baby spinach. Also, we make a traditional soup that is by far one of my favorite mixed mushroom soups (portabella, oyster mushroom, cremini shitakes, and huitlacoche), cooked in lemongrass broth with corn dumplings, topped with braised Serrano peppers and glazed onions. This is just a little example of what you can find at MEXOTIK.

You also offer catering. Will you tell me more about this?

I started catering about five years ago. This is something that I really enjoy doing. My service is more personal and I can take care of every single detail. When you are in this business, you have to learn that details are an important part of the culinary experience.

What kind of events and gatherings do you cater for in Sayulita? How is the menu the same or different from the menu in the restaurant?

The events and gatherings I cater for go from 2 people up to 200. The menu that I have for catering is totally different and much more extensive than what we offer at our restaurant. In both cases, I only serve fresh and seasonal products.

Cooking classes is another service you offer. I’d love to hear more about this.

Yes, another option that we offer is cooking classes. Nowadays, people are more aware of what they eat. And if you are on holidays, what a better way to make your vacation more special than to learn something new to share with your loved ones?