Table of Contents
Introduction
Ah, the bustling, ever lively streets of Manila, where every corner has a story to tell and every nook has a flavor to share. Now, let’s taco ‘bout a culinary invasion that’s been spicing up the local food scene – the robust and fiery breath of Mexican cuisine finding its home in the Best Mexican Restaurants in Manila. This union is a love story more riveting than any telenovela, setting many a stomach aflutter with a dance of a thousand spices.
From the humble taco to the majestic burrito, the flavors of Mexico have found a home in the heart of the Philippines. And oh, what a home they have found! The warmth of Filipino hospitality meets the hearty embrace of Mexican gastronomy in a fusion that can only be described as destined by the food gods. The outcome? A palate of experiences that is as diverse as the archipelago itself.
When the zest of lime marries the earthy notes of adobo, it’s a union that not only tantalizes the taste buds but serenades the soul. The marriage between Mexican and Filipino flavors is not just a hasty elopement, but a grand celebration. And like any grand celebration, it comes with a guest list of spicy, tangy, savory, and oh-so-divine delicacies ready to march down the culinary aisle of Manila’s ever-evolving food scene.
It’s a gastronomic fiesta every day, as Manila’s Mexican joints offer a delightful medley of flavors. From the seasoned streets of Makati to the bustling bylanes of Bonifacio Global City, every locale brings forth a unique rendition of this beautiful culinary romance. Each bite tells a tale of tradition, each sip narrates a story of fusion, and every visit is an invitation to a vibrant fiesta.
So, if you’ve got a craving for some good ol’ Mexican grub, or if your taste buds are itching for a spicy adventure, Manila’s Mexican restaurants are where the fiesta’s at. Prepare to salsa through this spicy journey as we unveil the best Mexican restaurants that Manila has to offer. Your taste buds will surely sing, “Ay, caramba!”
El Poco Cantina
Popular Menu Items
El Poco Cantina is where the magic of Mexican cuisine comes alive in the midst of Manila’s hustle and bustle. Some of the star players in their menu lineup include the savory Beef Birria, Queso Birria, and Carnitas, known to make taste buds do a little happy salsa dance. The Pork Carnitas Street Tacos and Asian Pulled Pork Burrito are not to be missed as well. If you’re more into the classic Mexican fare, their traditional nachos and Birria tacos are something to taco ’bout.
Website
Get a sneak peek of the fiesta awaiting you at their official website: elpococantina.com.
Location
Situated at 945 Estrada St, Manila, Metro Manila, Philippines, El Poco Cantina is a stone’s throw away from the iconic San Sebastian Church. So after a spiritual stroll, you can feed your earthly cravings with some spicy Mexican goodness.
Customer Reviews
The patrons have spoken and the verdict is out – El Poco Cantina is a hit! The place receives high praises for its authentic Mexican flavors, with many reviewers drooling over their beef Birria. The atmosphere is described as nice and the staff as cheerful, adding to the overall appeal of the place. And while the food is hailed as top-tier, it comes at a price point that’s a bit on the higher side according to some diners. However, it seems the quality and flavor justify every peso spent. Customers especially recommend the Queso Birria and Carnitas, declaring them must-try items. Despite being usually packed with people, diners suggest that the hours between 2pm to 3pm are the golden hours to fully enjoy what El Poco Cantina has to offer without the usual crowd.
So, whether it’s the mouth-watering tacos or the lively ambiance, El Poco Cantina promises a fiesta of flavors that’s worth every moment spent there.
A’Toda Madre Tequila Bar
A’Toda Madre Tequila Bar is not just a place, it’s an experience, especially for those with a penchant for tequila. This lively tequila bar in Makati is a haven for those looking to explore the fiery essence of Mexico in a glass, boasting a jaw-dropping variety of 105 tequila types with Partida Elegante Tequila being the showstopper, priced at P2,500 per shot and P25,000 per bottle. The bar doesn’t just stop at tequila; it takes you on a culinary journey through Mexico with a menu that sings the praises of authentic Mexican street food. Get ready to dive into a plate of well-cooked Fish Tacos, Carnitas, Steaks, or indulge your sweet tooth with a tasty Chocolate Flan. And for the taco aficionados, the bar serves a variety of tacos like Carnitas Tacos, Barbacoa Tacos, Fish Tacos, Shrimp Tacos, Chile Verde Tacos, Carne Asada Tacos, Lengua Tacos, and Chicken Chipotle Tacos. They also offer classic Mexican dishes like Burritos, Quesadillas, and Nachos to satisfy your Mexican food cravings.
Social Media
Stay updated with the latest happenings at A’Toda Madre Tequila Bar by following them on Facebook. Their social media channels are a great way to catch a glimpse of their mouth-watering Mexican fare and the lively ambiance that awaits you.
Location
Nestled at G/F, Sunette Tower, Durban Street corner Makati Avenue, Poblacion, Makati City 1200, Metro Manila, A’Toda Madre Tequila Bar is where the heart of Mexico beats in the rhythm of Manila’s vibrant nightlife.
Customer Reviews
Customers rave about the extensive tequila selection and the authentic Mexican dishes that transport them straight to the heart of Mexico. The bar’s vibrant atmosphere paired with live acoustic music on certain days, makes it a go-to spot for many looking to unwind and enjoy a night of fun and flavors. However, to get a more comprehensive view of customer experiences, checking out reviews on platforms like Yelp or Tripadvisor might provide a better insight.
A’Toda Madre Tequila Bar is more than just a bar; it’s a fiesta waiting to happen, with every sip and bite promising a taste of the rich and colorful Mexican culture.
El Chupacabra
El Chupacabra is your go-to joint for a casual Mexican street food spree right in the heart of Makati. The star of the show here is undoubtedly their variety of Street Tacos that transports you to the bustling streets of Mexico with every bite. Besides the famed tacos, the menu also boasts of scrumptious offerings like Fish Tacos, Chicken Quesadillas, and Fried Fish that are nothing short of a fiesta for your taste buds. And if your appetite craves for more, dive into their Nachos and Quesadillas, which are equally rave-worthy and promise a gastronomic adventure that’s hard to forget.
Social Media: Facebook Page
Though I was unable to fetch the Facebook page due to restrictions, you can explore their social media presence by heading to El Chupacabra’s Facebook Page for the latest updates and a sneak peek into their mouthwatering menu offerings.
Location
Nestled at 5782 Felipe Street, Poblacion, Makati City, Manila, El Chupacabra offers a casual and lively ambiance that’s perfect for a chill night out with friends or family.
Customer Reviews
Customers are all about the casual and hip vibe that El Chupacabra emanates. It’s not just a place to fill your belly with delicious Mexican street food; it’s where you come to soak in the laid-back, rustic atmosphere reminiscent of a vibrant street-side eatery in Mexico. The Street Tacos are a crowd favorite, earning them the tagline of “tacos with street cred” among patrons. They love the open-air setup, which along with the affordable prices for both food and beer, makes El Chupacabra a beloved spot in the expensive cityscape of Makati.
So, when in Manila and craving for some authentic Mexican street food vibes, you know where to head to!
Chili’s Grill & Bar Restaurant
Chili’s Grill & Bar Restaurant is known for its hearty American and Mexican fare. The classic Baby Back Ribs and Fajita Quesadillas are beloved by many, alongside other tantalizing dishes like the Monterey Chicken, Triple Dipper, and a variety of burgers and steaks.
Website
Check out their official website chilisphilippines.com for a full view of their menu and ongoing promotions.
Location
Chili’s has several branches in Manila to choose from:
- Ayala Malls Manila Bay: 2nd Level, Phase 2, Ayala Malls Manila Bay, Diosdado Macapagal Blvd., Entertainment City, Parañaque City.
- One Bonifacio High Street: 3F Terraces, One Bonifacio High Street 5th Avenue, Bonifacio Global City, Taguig City.
- SM Mall of Asia: Ground Floor, North Wing, Main Mall, SM Mall of Asia, Pasay City.
- Rockwell: P1 Level, Power Plant Mall, Rockwell, Makati City.
- Greenhills: 26 Missouri St. cor. Nevada St., Northeast Greenhills, San Juan City.
Customer Reviews
Patrons often appreciate the cozy, family-friendly atmosphere at Chili’s, making it a preferred spot for casual dining. The broad menu selection caters to a wide range of taste buds, ensuring a satisfying meal for everyone in the group.
Agave Mexican Cantina
Agave Mexican Cantina is the place to be if you’re after an authentic Mexican feast. Their Margaritas are a must-try, offering a refreshing respite to Manila’s tropical heat. But there’s more to Agave than just drinks. Dive into a plate of their nicely cooked Chimichangas, or perhaps some beef and nacho chips for that satisfying crunch with every bite. And hey, why stop there? The Nacho Grande, Spicy Chili Bites, and Yucatan Skewers are also on the must-try list, ensuring your Mexican food adventure is nothing short of epic.
Website
Check out their official website agavecantina.com for more on their menu and to keep up with any ongoing promos.
Location
Agave Mexican Cantina can be found in various locations around Manila:
- Avida Towers Verte, 9th Ave, BGC, Taguig City
- Brickroad Lifestyle Center, Sta Lucia Drive Brick Rd., Cainta, Rizal (Opening February 2023)
- Upper Ground, Circuit Lane, A.P Reyes Avenue, Brgy. Carmona, Makati City
- Eastwood Citywalk 1, Bagumbayan, Quezon City.
Customer Reviews
The lively atmosphere and accommodating staff at Agave Mexican Cantina contribute to its appeal as one of the best spots to eat and drink at BGC. With a Certificate of Excellence and a price range of ₱300 – ₱800, it’s a place where the vibes are always high and the food is consistently delish.
Fiery Style Southwestern Flaming Grill
Experience a fusion of flavors at Fiery Style Southwestern Flaming Grill. Their menu boasts a range of Southwestern takes on classic Mexican dishes. It’s not just about the heat; it’s about flavors that dance on the palate with every bite. From nicely cooked rump steaks, nacho chips to their causa, the food here is a hearty nod to traditional Mexican cuisine with a Southwestern twist. They have a promo on their Steak Ala Familia, a whopping 750g of steak goodness priced at Php 999 from the original Php 1,698. While the steak is a hit, some patrons mentioned that the rice served alongside was overcooked, so there’s room for some culinary improvement.
Unfortunately, the official social media profiles for Fiery Style Southwestern Flaming Grill were not readily available. However, the latest promos, food snaps, and updates might be shared by food bloggers or on local food review platforms.
Location
One of their branches is located at Uptown Place Mall Bonifacio Global City, Taguig City, Luzon Philippines. They also have other branches around Manila so you might want to check them out at your convenience.
Customer Reviews
Customer reviews portray a mixed bag of experiences. While some relish the modern ambiance and the wide range of food choices, others were less impressed. A review highlighted a promo on Steak Ala Familia, appreciating the value for money despite the overcooked rice. However, some patrons from the Alabang branch expressed dissatisfaction with the service and food quality. Complaints ranged from rude staff and locally-cooked food perceived as overpriced, to uncooked rice and a sarcastic manager that didn’t handle customer complaints well. It seems like Fiery Style Southwestern Flaming Grill has some spicy challenges to work through to ensure every patron leaves with a satisfied belly and a smile.
Gringo Chicken Ribs Friends
Gringo’s menu is a tribute to comforting and hearty Mexican and Southern-style cuisine. Whether you’re hankering for their savory ribs, crispy nacho chips, or tender chicken, there’s a mouthful of home-cooked goodness in every bite. The Baby Back Ribs, Southern-style Roast Chicken, Burritos, and Nachos are especially enticing and have locals and tourists coming back for more. They also have a range of other offerings like mashed camote, Mexican rice, macaroni salad, okra, clam chowder, soft tacos, and cilantro, among others. A noted special is their Half Char-Grilled Southern Blend Chicken which carries a secret blend of Southern-style rub and is a crowd pleaser. Another menu highlight is their 1875 Pot Stewed Beef which is a hearty choice for those looking to try something different.
Website
Check out their official website gringo.ph to explore the full range of your favorite Gringo specials.
Location
Gringo Chicken Ribs Friends has its arms open in various parts of Manila. Here are some of their branches:
- SM North EDSA, G/F The Block, SM City North EDSA, Quezon City
- BGC, The Fort, G/F The Fort Residences, 2nd Ave., cor. 30th St. Bonifacio Global City, Taguig
- Legazpi Village, Makati, OPL Bldg., C. Palanca cor. Dela Rosa St., Legazpi Village, Makati City
- SM Mall of Asia Arena Annex (MAAX), Ground Level, MAAX Bldg., SM MOA Arena, Pasay City
- SM Sucat, Ground Level, Bldg. A, SM Sucat, Parañaque City
- Greenhills, Ground Level, O Square 2, Greenhills, San Juan
- SM Megamall, 3rd Level Mega Atrium, Bldg. A, SM Megamall, Mandaluyong City
- SM Marilao, Ground Level, SM City Marilao, Bulacan
- Festival Mall, 2nd Floor, Expansion Wing, Festival Mall, Alabang
Each branch has its own unique vibe but carries the same welcoming atmosphere that Gringo is known for.
Customer Reviews
Customers have mixed reactions towards their dining experience at Gringo. While some sing praises for the delicious and tender beef burrito, original Gringo chicken, and their attentive service, others find the chicken just okay and leave with a savory overload from the burrito. A review from a patron who dined at their Parañaque branch shared a positive experience despite visiting close to closing time. They enjoyed a quick dinner of nachos, peri chicken, and ribs which were served promptly. The total bill for a group of eight amounted to around 2,500 pesos including drinks and dessert, which was considered good value. They appreciated the unhurried service even as mall closing time approached, making their dining experience excellent.
Conclusion
- Recap the spicy, flavorful journey through Manila’s Mexican restaurant scene.
- Encourage readers to explore these culinary gems and discover their own favorites.
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