Cocina de Autor at Grand Velas Los Cabos

Cocina de Autor is the fine-dining restaurant at Grand Velas Los Cabos, at Km 17 of the corridor. It holds one MICHELIN star, which Visit Los Cabos lists as the destination's only star, plus AAA Five Diamonds. The concept is directed by Dutch chef Sidney Schutte, who holds two MICHELIN stars in Europe, and is cooked nightly under executive chef Francisco Sixtos.

There's one menu: 8 to 10 courses of local produce, meat and seafood, with wine pairing if you want it. You start with a cocktail at the bar, then get seated. Nobody under 18 is allowed, so we point couples here for a night off while the rest of the group stays at the villa.

Pack real clothes, because the dress code is enforced. Men need collared shirts, trousers and closed shoes; women, dresses, skirts or evening trousers. Beach sandals, tank tops and shorts get turned away. If you're not staying at the resort, there's a US$125 per person deposit, forfeited on a no-show, and you must cancel at least 72 hours ahead. Reservations are by phone or email only. Grand Velas is about 25 minutes by taxi or car from Médano Beach; give your name at the resort entrance.