By Molly Given
Aqimero is rolling out a new spring dining initiative, and they’re hoping it’s quite buzz-worthy.
From March 24 to April 22, chef and restaurateur Richard Sandoval will bring back Viva Abejas, which translates to “Long Live the Bees.” This annual initiative aims to foster a connection between food, the environment, and sustainability, while also raising awareness about the importance of pollinators, such as bees. This is achieved through a variety of dishes and drinks that showcase seasonal flavors and highlight the role of bees in our food system.
“So many of the ingredients that define Latin cuisine depend on pollinators,” explains Sandoval. “Viva Abejas is about honoring that relationship and inspiring guests to think more intentionally about where their food begins.”
Some of those pollinator-defined ingredients include citrus, agave, coffee, seasonal produce, and honey. Essentially, pollinators are responsible for one out of every three bites of food we consume and through this initiative, Sandoval wants guests to experience that connection firsthand, translating sustainability into a tangible, elevated dining experience.
So what’s on the menu? Food-wise, this year’s Viva Abejas will feature Viva Tiradito Tuna Ceviche, Beef Tenderloin, and an Abejas Pavlova, along with cocktails like the Miel de Fuego, Honeycomb Carajillo, Margarita Melipona and the Viva Abeja Paloma.
A fun way to experience it all is through the venue’s Boozy Tea Experience, set to take place Saturday, April 11 and Sunday, April 12. This tasting event is meant to be immersive for guests, with live DJ entertainment, crafted tea cocktails, and a tasting menu showcasing the many flavors of the kitchen. Reservations for Boozy Tea can be made via OpenTable or through Aqimero’s official site.
More than a seasonal menu, Viva Abejas is Sandoval’s flagship sustainability platform designed to educate, inspire, and drive action. As a release notes, the initiative aims to reach 60,000 young learners annually through classroom modules and educational outreach, while promoting biodiversity through hive installations across the U.S. and Mexico.
A cornerstone of the program includes beekeeping initiatives in Mérida, Mexico, supporting sustainable agriculture and pollinating ingredients used across his restaurant concepts. Additionally, 100% of proceeds from Sandoval’s children’s book, Viva Abejas, benefit The World Bee Project, helping fund research, protection, and restoration of bee populations worldwide.
And while at Aqimero, locals can indulge in the venue’s many other brunch, lunch, dinner and dessert options from the kitchen and the bar. Stand-outs include chipotle hummus, Wagyu steak tartare, yellow corn empanadas, short rib al carbon, Mexican chocolate French toast, churros with dulce de leche and much more.
To find out more information on Aqimero (10 Avenue of the Arts) and Viva Abejas, visit aqimero.com