Discover the Passion Behind Craft Beer in Playa del Carmen

Interview with Arturo Lira, Tap Room Manager of Cervecería Independiente Chela de Playa, in Playa del Carmen, Riviera Maya, Mexico

In this interview, Arturo Lira, Tap Room Manager of Cervecería Chela de Playa in Playa del Carmen, shares his passion for craft beer and local gastronomy. Discover how the culture and climate of the Riviera Maya influence the production of unique beers in this region.

Who are you and what is your relationship with beer?

My name is Arturo Lira and I am the tap room manager of Cervecería Chela de Playa. I have been immersed in the world of craft beer for around six years, but in the gastronomy field I have more than twenty years of experience. My relationship with beer is very deep; I not only enjoy it, but I am also fascinated by how it relates to gastronomy. For me, enjoying the beer that the entire factory team makes is like a big family cooking together. From the creativity of its founder Alejandro, alongside Alex, the master brewer, the entire factory team and the locals — it all requires passion; both disciplines are similar, and each person has their own way of "cooking" their beer.

Arturo, as a bridge between the brand and beer lovers in Playa del Carmen through his role as Tap Manager of Chela de Playa in Playa del Carmen, is led to experiment with flavors and to offer new unique experiences in the Riviera Maya.

People may see beer as an ordinary drink, but for me, it is an art. Every beer style we craft has a purpose, a message.

How did you get into the world of gastronomy?

Cultural diversity that my parents gave me; and that I later developed under great teachers when I worked at a Spanish restaurant in Mexico City:

My relationship with gastronomy is something that runs in the family. I grew up in Mexico City, an environment where food was always a central topic, especially due to the Oaxacan heritage of my mother, who taught me about colors, flavors, aromas and the importance of cooking. From an early age, gastronomy has been an integral part of my life. My mother and grandmother used to make mole and hand-made tortillas and sold them, and on my father's side, coming from San Juan Teotihuacán, all the culture related to Pulque, which allowed me to appreciate the richness of Mexican cuisine.

As I grew older, I started working in restaurants, beginning as a glass washer at a bar. That experience was my real school. I learned from chefs and bartenders, and I realized I wanted to go deeper into the world of gastronomy. Although I did not complete my formal studies, passion and the desire to learn led me to where I am today.

What beer styles can you find in Playa del Carmen?

In Playa del Carmen, you can find various beer styles, although most people are used to lager-type beers. However, there is great diversity in the styles we can offer. From light beers to heavier ones, each has its own flavor profile. The key lies in fermentation and the ingredients.

For example, ale-type beers tend to be more complex and can have a more intense flavor profile thanks to the hops. Lagers, on the other hand, are smoother and more refreshing, ideal for the warm climate of the Riviera Maya. The beauty of beer is that there is a style for every palate. And that is what we want people to discover when they visit the brewery.

Enjoy an incredible experience on a four-hour gastronomic tour where you will taste various beers in Playa del Carmen.

PDC BEER & SNACKS

^{This is the White IPA that you can find at Chela de Playa.
Photo: Gabriel Agustín Garay Opaso, Visibles.World}

What are the challenges of making craft beer in Playa del Carmen?

Making craft beer in Playa del Carmen presents several challenges, with the heat being one of the greatest. Lager beers, for example, require lower fermentation temperatures, which can be complicated in such a hot place. Although here at Chela de Playa we work primarily with ale-type beers, the challenge remains real.

Additionally, another major challenge is water quality. Although we are surrounded by water, in Mexico we do not always have access to good-quality water. This means we have to filter and treat the water to ensure it is suitable for brewing.

Water is the most important ingredient in brewing. Without quality water, there is no quality beer. Arturo Lira emphasizes that "...if we have good water, we will have a good beer." Water quality not only affects the flavor, but also the fermentation process. In the Riviera Maya the water challenge is notable; proximity to the sea raises the pH and the need for proper filtration.

The brewery faces the challenge of treating the water to ensure it meets the necessary standards. This care in water management translates into beers that are not only refreshing, but also have an exceptional flavor profile. Attention to water is, therefore, an art in itself that is reflected in every sip.

How does local culture influence beer preferences?

Local culture plays a crucial role in how beer is received in Playa del Carmen. Despite being a tourist destination, beer culture in Mexico is still developing. People tend to drink for the sake of drinking, without much consideration for what they are consuming. However, at Chela de Playa we are trying to offer a different perspective, providing quality beers that reflect the richness of Mexican culture.

Tourists who visit Playa del Carmen come from different parts of the world, and many of them are open to exploring new beers. This creates a unique opportunity for us. We want to educate people about craft beer and show them that in Mexico we also know how to make quality beers. The idea is that when they leave, they take with them a great taste and a little piece of Mexican beer culture.

What makes Chela de Playa's beer special?

What makes Chela de Playa's beer special is the passion and care we put into every batch. Every beer we brew is a reflection of our dedication and the carefully selected ingredients. Moreover, being in a tourist destination gives us the opportunity to showcase the quality of our beer to a wider audience.

Last year, Chela de Playa won more than nineteen medals in various beer competitions, which speaks to the quality of what we do. We strive to create beers that are not only delicious, but also tell a story. We want every sip to be an experience that our visitors will remember.

In short, our beer is not just a drink; it is an expression of our culture and our dedication to the brewing craft. And that is what we want people to discover when they visit us.

For those interested in exploring more about Latin American gastronomy, we invite you to visit the section: VISIBLES WORLD MAGAZINE - Gastronomy & Tourism and the tourism videos of Mexico we have for you. You can also discover other culinary delights such as the interview with renowned Argentine chef Narda Lepes or learn a delicious recipe for the Chilean cocktail that blends tradition and freshness: Alameda Punch, or the famous cocktail "Vodkasaurio"

How do you handle customer service at the brewery?

Customer service at Cervecería Chela de Playa focuses on creating a welcoming, family-like experience. Arturo mentions that "we try to make the customer or diner feel at home." The idea is to remember the faces and names of customers, providing a personalized treatment that goes beyond the conventional. "We are trying to remember the faces of all the customers who come in, treating them like friends," says Arturo.

This philosophy extends to the entire team. The attention is not limited to the quality of the beer, but is also reflected in how visitors are treated. "...a beer as such is great because it makes you talk... it provides good conversation, good chats; even love stories and heartbreaks," shares Arturo, highlighting how beer acts as a social bond that brings people together.

What role does beer play in Mexico's history and culture?

Beer plays a fundamental role in Mexico's history and culture. Arturo points out that "beer is also history because it provides thousands (of stories)." At every gathering, celebration or historical event, there has been a drink that accompanied those moments. "At every meeting, whether for independence, revolution, or whatever, there was always a drink and there was always food," he explains, highlighting the importance of beer in Mexican identity.

Beer culture in Mexico is in the process of developing, and the brewery seeks to change that narrative. "Unfortunately, in Mexico we lack that culture," says Arturo, referring to the lack of appreciation for the quality of craft beers. In a country where celebration is part of the identity, the brewery seeks to educate consumers about what it truly means to enjoy a good beer.

How can beer be enjoyed in gastronomy?

Beer is not only a drink, but can also be a key ingredient in gastronomy. Arturo mentions that at the brewery "the main course is the beer." This implies that beer can be paired with food in creative ways, enhancing flavors and experiences. "Pairing is also always great, it's very enjoyable, and trying to land on that point of flavors," he adds.

The idea is that beer and food complement each other, creating flavor explosions that delight the palate. With a variety of craft beers, visitors can explore different combinations that make every meal a unique experience. The brewery invites everyone to experience this fusion of flavors.

What would you recommend to tourists visiting Playa del Carmen?

Arturo has clear advice for tourists visiting Playa del Carmen: "I would recommend that they drink as much beer as they can." The brewery is not the only option; there are other places that offer a good variety of Mexican beers. "Honestly, we have a great variety and some great styles," he says, emphasizing the richness of the beer offering in the region.

He suggests visitors not limit themselves to the best-known beers; he invites them to venture out and try the craft beers that reflect local culture and ingredients. "The foreigner who comes will not regret one bit a very good Mexican beer," Arturo assures, inviting everyone to discover the diversity of Mexican beer.

What is your message for beer lovers?

Arturo reiterates his message: "drink lots of beer." However, he emphasizes the importance of enjoying it in moderation, he clarifies. Beer, in his opinion, is a means to forge connections and create memorable moments. "A happy heart is always accompanied by a very good beer and if it is Chela de Playa, even better," he concludes, reflecting his passion for beer and the community that surrounds it.

For those looking to delve deeper into Mexico's beer and gastronomic culture, we invite you to the new gastronomic tour called PDC BEER & SNACK, an experience that not only invites you to discover the most recommended spots for a quality beer but also offers the history of beer culture alongside irresistible food while enjoying a tasty brew. We also invite you to explore more about cocktails and flavor combinations or discover more about the fascinating world of gastronomy at VISIBLES WORLD MAGAZINE - Gastronomy & Tourism.

Table of Contents

• How has the beer industry evolved in Mexico?
• What do you think about large breweries and their impact on craft beer?
• Is there a fun fact you would like to share?
• FAQ about craft beer in Playa del Carmen

How has the beer industry evolved in Mexico?

The beer industry in Mexico has traveled a fascinating path. From the days when pulque was the predominant drink, to the explosion of craft breweries today, the change has been significant. The large brewing companies initially viewed that market as secondary, even though pulque was far more popular; but they later began to see craft as an attractive market — so much so that they have now acquired several craft breweries and scaled production further, though no longer with the same flavor and quality, prioritizing industrialized business over preserving the authentic taste of the beer before acquisition and the spirit of creativity in beer production in the country, which keeps growing even as Mexico is known for products like Mezcal and Tequila.

Large breweries, in their eagerness to capture more market share, have influenced the perception of craft beer. "Thanks to all this business around beer, there was a push from the large companies," explains Lira. This has led to a renaissance of interest in craft beers, which are gaining ground and recognition.

Today, craft breweries are not only growing in market share, but are also educating consumers about the diversity and quality of beer. "The world of beer is growing and growing," notes Arturo, reflecting the increasing appreciation for what craft beer represents in Mexican culture.

What do you think about large breweries and their impact on craft beer?

The relationship between large breweries and craft ones is complex. Arturo points out that, although large breweries may have significant resources, "craft comes with that love for the art." Craft breweries, like Cervecería Chela, focus on quality and authenticity, as opposed to the mass production of large brands.

"Large companies start to grow strong through those kinds of things," he explains, referring to the practices of prioritizing mass consumption and advertising that can undermine the quality of craft beers. However, the greater number of breweries and own production across various states has led to greater innovation and an overall increase in the quality of beers in Mexico.

Arturo also mentions that, despite the pressure from large brands, "the love for craft keeps growing." This is a testament to how consumers are increasingly interested in products that tell a story and reflect local culture.

Is there a fun fact you would like to share?

Arturo shares a fun fact about the location of Cervecería Chela de Playa. "We are right next to a beautiful little cenote," he says. This location is not only picturesque, but also sets a perfect atmosphere for enjoying a good beer.

He also mentions that "we have lots of little turtles, the food is excellent, the service is excellent." This not only highlights the quality of the brewery, but also the comprehensive experience offered to visitors, turning a simple brewery visit into a memorable adventure.

FAQ about craft beer in Playa del Carmen

What types of craft beer can I find in Playa del Carmen?

In Playa del Carmen, the variety is surprising. From light beers to more robust ones, each brewery offers something unique. Arturo mentions that "in Mexico we are used to drinking only lagers," but the reality is that there is a whole world of flavors to discover.

How can I pair craft beer with food?

Pairing beer with food is an experience that can enhance both elements. Arturo suggests that "pairing is always great," and that beer can complement the flavors of dishes, creating a unique gastronomic experience.

Why is it important to support craft breweries?

Supporting craft breweries means contributing to the cultural and gastronomic diversity of the region. "We are trying to educate consumers about what it really means to enjoy a good beer," says Arturo, highlighting the importance of appreciation for the local and the authentic.

For those looking to delve deeper into Mexico's beer and gastronomic culture, we invite you to explore more about cocktails and flavor combinations or discover more about the fascinating world of gastronomy at VISIBLES WORLD MAGAZINE - Gastronomy & Tourism.

Where is Chela de Playa located?

Just steps from the Quinta Avenida, in the gastronomic zone of 38th Street, between 1st Street and Flamingos.

The History of Beer?

The history of beer dates back thousands of years, and its cultural legacy is vast and fascinating. It is believed that the earliest forms of beer were produced in Mesopotamia around 5,000 BC, where the Sumerians were already brewing a fermented drink made from barley. Over time, beer became an integral part of daily and ceremonial life in various cultures, from ancient Egyptians who offered it to their gods, to the Romans, who considered it an essential food. In Mexico, the history of beer begins with pulque, a fermented drink made from agave, which was the predominant alcoholic beverage before the arrival of the Spanish. With the introduction of European brewing techniques in the 16th century, the production of beer as we know it today began. In the 19th century, breweries began to proliferate in Mexico, and from the 1920s onward, large brands dominated the market, but interest in craft beers has grown exponentially in recent decades. This resurgence has allowed breweries like Chela de Playa not only to brew quality beers, but also to tell stories through their flavors, paying homage to the country's rich brewing heritage and fostering a new culture that values craftsmanship and diversity of styles. Beer in Mexico is not just a drink; it is a reflection of the country's history and cultural identity.