Each year, as the vibrant marigold blossoms line the streets and the air hums with memories of ancestors, Hotel Matilda hosts a night that has become legendary among Mexico’s culinary elite: the annual Cena Negra. This year marked the 13th edition, an exquisite celebration that fuses the ancient spirit of Día de Muertos with modern Mexican gastronomy, art, and a generous pour of heart. Guided by renowned Chef Ricardo Muñoz Zurita, Cena Negra 2024 brought together 140 lucky guests in a truly transcendent experience.

Held in Hotel Matilda’s enchanting courtyard, Cena Negra isn’t just another meal—it’s a journey. From the first bite to the last, each dish, meticulously crafted by Chef Muñoz Zurita, embodies the rich traditions of Mexican culture, reimagined for today’s palate. The chef, often called the “Anthropologist of Mexican Cuisine,” tapped into the flavors of the past with a modern twist that honored the essence of Día de Muertos: life, remembrance, and connection.

 

 

A Culinary Symphony Honoring Tradition

This year's menu was nothing short of a culinary symphony. Each course transported guests deeper into the roots of Mexican heritage, enhanced by Chef Muñoz Zurita’s signature touch. The night opened with Aguachile negro, a dish that married vibrant flavors and earthy undertones, setting a mesmerizing tone. Then came Tamales de huitlacoche, a rich nod to Mexico’s beloved maize and the earthy fungi known as huitlacoche. But the true showstopper was the Zapote negro with guava—a decadent dessert that melted on the tongue, leaving a lingering warmth that perfectly encapsulated the spirit of Día de Muertos. 

Every dish was artfully presented, weaving in symbolism and storytelling that evoked the profound connections between food, culture, and memory. The crowd was captivated, savoring each bite as both a flavor experience and a connection to heritage.

Elevating the Experience with Perfect Pairings

Of course, no evening at Cena Negra would be complete without the perfect drink in hand. Hotel Matilda curated a stellar selection of pairings from iconic labels, elevating each dish with sophistication and respect for Mexican terroir. Casa Dragones Tequila, renowned for its impeccable craftsmanship, stole the spotlight with its Casa Dragones Joven and Casa Dragones Reposado Mizunara, which were masterfully paired with the intricate flavors of Chef Muñoz Zurita’s menu.

Not to be outdone, Jackson Family Wines and Brew Wines presented their Murphy Goode Cabernet and Chardonnay, each sip enhancing the flavors of the dishes and offering an international homage to the culinary creativity of the night. These pairings underscored the artistry of the Cena Negra experience, where gastronomy, heritage, and winemaking met in perfect harmony.

An Evening Transformed by Art and Atmosphere

As if the cuisine weren’t enough, the visual feast was just as stunning. Moxi, Hotel Matilda’s beloved restaurant, transformed into a mystical space that celebrated Día de Muertos in every detail. Renowned Mexican artists Paloma Domínguez, Jesús Valenzuela, and Mazvyde Sakal infused the space with evocative sculptures, murals, and installations that invited guests to reflect on the beauty and fragility of life. 

Casa Armida’s thoughtful décor added a layer of elegance, blending lush floral arrangements, traditional ofrendas, and ambient lighting to envelop guests in an otherworldly glow. It was a space where tradition met innovation, where every corner told a story of Mexican heritage and the universal human connection to those who have passed.

A Celebration of Culture, Heritage, and Flavors

Hotel Matilda’s Cena Negra has become more than an annual event; it’s an essential part of the Día de Muertos celebrations in San Miguel de Allende. With every new edition, this extraordinary evening grows in reputation, drawing locals, tourists, and culinary aficionados who come not just for a meal, but for an experience that blends gastronomy, culture, and soul.

Cena Negra is a testament to Hotel Matilda’s dedication to preserving and celebrating Mexican traditions. From the carefully crafted menu to the curated art installations, every element of the night is designed to honor the essence of Día de Muertos while showcasing the vibrant evolution of Mexican culture. 

As the evening drew to a close, guests left with more than full stomachs; they departed with memories that transcended the night, a renewed sense of connection to the past, and a deep appreciation for the artistry that brought Día de Muertos to life in every sense.

For those who missed this year’s celebration, the countdown to Cena Negra 2025 has already begun. And for those lucky enough to attend, the magic of this unforgettable night will linger long after the candles are extinguished and the final flavors fade.

For more information, visit [Hotel Matilda’s official site https://hotelmatilda.com/