
El Chupacabra
A legendary Mexican taqueria in Poblacion, known for its authentic street tacos, vibrant atmosphere, and great value. A must-visit for foodies.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Blue hour photography, calmer galleries

El Chupacabra

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A legendary Mexican taqueria in Poblacion, known for its authentic street tacos, vibrant atmosphere, and great value. A must-visit for foodies.
"More like a hole-in-the-wall diner, it's the go-to place for tacos when you're in Manila. Add this to your bucket list!"
Visit during off-peak hours
Avoid crowds and potential service delays by visiting during less busy times.
Request sour cream for tacos
Ask for traditional sour cream, as their usual version has a garlicky flavor.

Quick Facts
Cuisine
Mexican
Price
$
Phone
+63 2 7729 3358
Address
5782 Felipe, Makati City, Metro Manila, Philippines
Website
facebook.com/ElchupacabraphHighlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Authentic Mexican Street Tacos
Savor mouthwatering street tacos like Birria and Al Pastor, a true taste of Mexico in Manila.

San Diego Style Burritos
Experience unique San Diego-style burritos, packed with flavor and often including fries.

Vibrant Dive Bar Atmosphere
Enjoy a no-frills, hidden-haunt appeal with a lively vibe, perfect for drinks and late-night bites.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Visit during off-peak hours
Avoid crowds and potential service delays by visiting during less busy times.
Request sour cream for tacos
Ask for traditional sour cream, as their usual version has a garlicky flavor.
Consider Grab for transport
If unsure of the area, using a ride-sharing service like Grab is recommended.
Tips
from all over the internet
Visit during off-peak hours
Avoid crowds and potential service delays by visiting during less busy times.
Request sour cream for tacos
Ask for traditional sour cream, as their usual version has a garlicky flavor.
Consider Grab for transport
If unsure of the area, using a ride-sharing service like Grab is recommended.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
El Chupacabra is lauded for its authentic and tasty Mexican street food, particularly its tacos and burritos, offered at good value. The vibrant, no-frills atmosphere is a major draw, making it a popular spot for locals and expats alike. While some find the food to be a solid 8/10 compared to traditional Mexican cuisine, overall satisfaction is high, with exceptional service often highlighted. Some minor complaints include the heat during the day and the consommé portion size for birria.
"Their food was so good! I love their burrito. It satisfied my craving. I ordered the San Diego style (with fries). My boyfriend ordered street tacos which was good as well. I love their iced tea by the way. I loved it so much that i ordered again 😁"
Dee Andres
"It was a nice experience. There is a vibe in the place. The meat/food is quality. Freshly cooked off the fire. We've tried better flavored tacos and burria, but we were satisfied and happy we went. They have fan and air-conditioned seating. They have lots of food and drinks offerings that you can choose from. Must try. But not a resto we'll crave to go back to and we also live in a different so we can come conveniently."
Dina Marie
"Boy, the place is so hot during the day without an AC. I’ve never been to Spain, but this place seems to be going for a traditional Spanish vibe, and honestly, it pulls that off pretty well. The atmosphere has a lot of charm, though the heat kind of kills the mood. The food was just okay for me—nothing special—but the prices were quite reasonable, so I can’t complain too much. There was only one staff member handling the whole dining area, so service was a bit slow."
王家英
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
The Al Pastor tacos and San Diego-style burritos are highly recommended. Many also rave about the Birria and Camarones a la Diabla tacos.
Yes, El Chupacabra offers separate vegetarian options, including burritos, tacos, and quesadillas.
It's described as a lively, no-frills, hidden-haunt dive bar with a vibrant and charming atmosphere, popular with drinking crowds.
Visiting during off-peak hours, especially on weekdays, is advised to avoid crowds and potential delays.
Their standard sour cream has a garlicky twist. You can request traditional sour cream specifically if you prefer.
Mentioned in
Featured in these publications
Food Trip in Makati
😀 #streettacos #tacos #quesadilla #mexicanfoodporn #mexicanfoodie #mexicanfoods #burritos #spotph #booky #whattoeatph #gourmanila #EATSterrific #FoodCrawl #eatwhuuut #TalesFromTheTummy #foodgrammerph #breakfastph #eatsasmallworld #foodiewhereabouts #mnlphoodie #zomatoph #foodpandaph #foodph #thefoodiestation #elchupacabraph #taqueria #taqueriamexicali #mexicaliph #bbq🍖 #mexicanfoodporn🇲🇽. A post shared by El Chupacabra (@elchupacabraph) on Oct 27, 2019 at 6:04pm PDT. A pioneer in the Poblacion food scene, El Chupacabra is undoubtedly one of the most popular restos to go food tripping in the area.
10 Must-try South American Restaurants in Manila
El Chupacabra, from the same people behind mall-staple Mexicali, took themselves out of commercial establishments and into this tiny little dive where parking and blazing heat (during lunch) are chores everyone’s suddenly willing to undertake if only for a taste of the Al Pastor. Back in 2013, El Chupacabra was one of the few to step out of the shadows by installing themselves in the darker corners of the city-keeping faithful to that street-oriented style that makes tacos all the more exciting. Nowadays, many have copied their no-frills, hidden-haunt appeal, but remember that it all began here.
Guide to the Best Nightlife and Clubs in Manila
El Chupacabra takes its name from the mythical creature in Latin America that supposedly sucks the blood out of livestock, especially goats, but fortunately that’s where the comparison ends. This popular al fresco hang-out offers a Mexican street food experience in the outskirts of Makati.Foodies come for the mouth-watering tacos and assorted grilled food on barbecue sticks, and stay for the drink deals. You can also buy Filipino street food from passing vendors and if you’re feeling particularly adventurous, try out the Filipino balut, or duck embryo.
Veggie Lifestyle: Must-Try Vegetarian Restaurants In Manila
El Chupacabra is a Mexican-American restaurant that is famous for serving authentic street tacos and barbecues that others often pair with their affordable beers. With this kind of menu, people may think that it is a non-vegan-friendly restaurant, but they actually offer separate vegetarian options that include a food craze of burritos, tacos, quesadillas, burgers, and rice plates. It is located in Makati City, and you will have the option to either dine inside the restaurant or outside near the smoky grills.
Restaurants With Outdoor Dining at SM By The Bay
Indulge in the signature dishes of top restaurants like El Chupacabra, Monga, The Alley by Vikings, Mey Lin, Crying Tiger Kitchen, Gringo, Guagua’s Best, Laing ni Kap, TJ’s Manukan, Gen BBQ, Recovery Food and Golden Bamboo, among others. You can also enjoy Mercato favorites like Mamay’s Ihaw, Kori’s Prawns, Please N’ Thank U Café, Kneads by Margareth, Mares Pares and Bad Burritos, alongside popular thirst quenchers like For Heaven’s Shake, Milk Tea Zero, Liquor by Pernod Ricard and many more!
Delicioso: Best Mexican Restaurants in Makati
A favorite among expats in the business district, El Chupacabra is a Mexican-American restaurant that offers some of the best street tacos in town. Don’t miss out their Baja California Fish Tacos, a crispy beer-battered fish tucked into corn tortillas, topped with slaw, salsa, and their secret sauce. GENERAL INFORMATIONAddress: 5782 Felipe Street cor Polaris St, Poblacion, MakatiContact number: (+632) 7729 3358 / 0995 0957 202Facebook: ElchupacabraphInstagram: elchupacabraph
Top 17 Makati City Tourist Spots & Things to Do
El Chupacabra stands as a testament to Makati City’s colorful tapestry of dining options, promising a culinary experience that is as robust as it is eclectic. This legendary spot offers a feast for the senses, serving up a delectable array of Mexican street food that tantalizes taste buds and ensnares the aromas of authenticity. It’s not simply the food that draws in locals and tourists alike, but the atmosphere that captures the very essence of Makati’s urban charm.
Mexican Restaurants to Try in Manila
Also located in Poblacion, Makati, El Chupacabra is a lively Mexican taqueria that promises an authentic and vibrant dining experience. With its colorful decor, lively atmosphere, and hipster vibes, El Chupacabra is a go-to spot for delicious tacos, burritos, and quesadillas. Their tacos are a must-try, with options like carne asada, al pastor, and carnitas, all packed with bold flavors and served on homemade tortillas.
Late night eats: restaurants open till late in Metro Manila
Home to Mexican street tacos, burritos, enchiladas, and even an impressive collection of plant-based items for vegan foodies, El Chupacabra remains open until 12mn every Thursday to Saturday. Imbibe in some beers and cocktails (a margarita is a no-brainer) and keep the party going as you indulge in a much-needed feed. Read more: Beyond the margarita: 5 delicious tequila cocktails you should know
15 Places in Manila to Go Loco For Great Tacos
Kraver’s Canteen’s El Nacho Libre promises to satisfy your TexMex cravings with delicious pieces of tacos made with shredded juicy meat and topped with a tangy, slightly spicy tomato and chipotle sauce. You can have them with Chicken Tinga, Chipotle Chicken, Carnitas Pork, Chili Con Carne, Chipotle Shrimp, or Pulled Pork BBQ. Enjoy with a side of pico de gallo salsa and cilantro cream!
A Taco Lover's Guide on the Best Places to Celebrate Cinco de Mayo
El Chupacabra is one of the veteran Mexican restaurants that has been a popular watering hole for years. Well-known for its festive vibe and affordable libations, “the home of the street tacos” is always bustling with those that are seeking a satisfying meal. For those seeking the comfort Filipino food, you can celebrate the Mexican Holiday with a choice of Pork Sisig Tacos, too.
10 Best Places to get Mexican Food in the Philippines (2023 Guide)
No one makes Mexican food like Tacos, Quesadillas, and Burritos better than El Chupacabra. El Chupacabra in Poblacion, Makati, is the place to be today if you’re craving real soft corn tortilla tacos prepared by their very own taco specialist. El Chupacabra, a Mexican-American restaurant popular with ex-pats in the business district, serves some of the best street tacos in town.
21 Restaurants with Vegan Options in Metro Manila
El Chupacabra is a Mexican-American restaurant serving street tacos, barbecue, and affordable beer. At first glance, El Chupacabra may seem like a non-vegan-friendly zone but they actually offer a separate vegan menu that includes burritos, tacos, quesadillas, burgers, rice plates, etc. Must try: Soyrizos con Papas, Grilled Vegetables Quesedilla, Vegan Cheese Enchilada
5 Fun and Exciting Date Ideas in Manila: Put Your Best Foot Forward
On any other night though, you can grab some tacos at El Chupacabra and some pad thai at Crying Tiger. Then if you’re in the mood for a drink, you can find great cocktails at Dear Adam, Sweet Lucy or West 32. Dear Adam, Sweet Lucy is actually a cafe by day and a craft cocktail lounge by night, so you can decide whether you’re craving a cup of coffee or a cocktail!
A Going Out Guide: Where to Eat in Poblacion From Day to Night
Lauded as the home of street tacos, El Chupacabra serves all of the essential Tex-Mex eats and chows. From authentic arroz a la cubana to nachos and soft tacos drenched in aromatics, you’ll definitely have a fiesta in your mouth. Not to mention, it’s one of the most popular and budget-friendly palaces in the neighbourhood to grab and few drinks.
Order from the best Mexican restaurants in Makati City
El Chupacabra: A very popular Mexican restaurant serving authentic Mexican dishes including soft-shell tacos such as the Baja California Fish Taco and the house special San Francisco-style Lean Pork Sisig. In the Other Good Stuff section of their menu you'll find a hearty Chilli con Carne & Tortilla Chips and a huge serving of Nachos Especiales.
11 Best Fish Tacos in Manila [2024]
When you place an order for the delicious fish tacos from El Chupacabra, be sure to have patience – they use tilapia instead of dory!. The kitchen staff is skilled at frying every nugget perfectly crisp while infusing a unique flavor and keeping oil levels balanced. Enjoying these tacos will leave your taste buds tingling with delight!
Mexican Restaurants to Try!
Between high commercial buildings at the heart of Makati, you'll surely be attracted at this Mexican restaurant that oozes with authentic Mexican charm. El Chupacabra's open-air setting warmly welcomes its patrons with its open doors and enchanting smell of Mexican food. Its high popularity produces long queues during rush hour.
Metro Manila Food Crawl: Makati Poblacion
One of the establishments that first made a mark in Poblacion, Makati is El Chupacabra, a streetside Mexican restaurant best known for amazing street tacos paired with beer. Folks from all over the metro flock here and wait hours for a table at this joint. What to order: San Francisco-style Lean Pork Sisig and Carne Asada tacos
Best Bars In Manila To Meet New People
In a city with abundant Spanish influence, it would be a shame to skip a Tex-Mex Bar. That place in Manila happens to be El Chupacabra, the heart of proper tacos in Manila. You can either try their signature meat skewer called Pinchos Morunos de Pollo, or pick the oldies-but-goldies like the traditional tacos or quesadillas.
Where to Eat in Makati on a Budget
Satisfy your Mexican cravings with El Chupacabra, their Mexican street tacos come in freshly made soft corn tortilla. Get their best seller, Carne Asada for Php 120, or their grilled chicken Pollo Asado for Php 115. If you can shell out a little more, try their house special San Francisco-style Pork Sisig for Php 145.
7 Mexican Restaurants In Metro Manila For Plant-Based Tacos & More
Some Mexican restaurants in Metro Manila also offer plant-based food. One of them is El Chupacabra in Poblacion, Makati that’s known for its street tacos. Among their popular street tacos are the Vegetarian (P120, ~USD2.29) with grilled veggies, and Soyrizo con Papas with vegetarian chorizo (sausage) (P145, ~USD2.77).
Top Things to Do in Makati City: A Bustling City in Metro Manila Philippines
When hunger strikes, indulge in some delicious eats at El Chupacabra or Finders Keepers, where you can sample local and international cuisine. For a moment of contemplation, visit Sto Niño de Paz Greenbelt Chapel or Saint Andrew the Apostle Church, both of which offer serene environments for reflection.
7 Taco Joints In Manila That Are Worth Visiting
A favorite among the drinking crowds of Poblacion, El Chupacabra’s street tacos come in different fillings and flavors. Whether you’re craving beef, pork, or seafood, you’ll definitely find something here. You can eat them as pulutan (since El Chupacabra serves great cocktails!) or as post-drink grub.
Party in the Philippines: The best nightlife in Manila
El Chupacabra is a very well-known and popular Tex-Mex bar and restaurant in Makati. Like Mexico, the Philippines was once part of the Spanish empire, ruled by the Viceroy of Nueva España, for over 300 years. Which explains why Filipino cuisine has a strong Spanish influence, much like Mexican food.
Our Top Recommendations
This restaurant is known for its amazing street vibe and great Mexican food. It delivers superb soft tacos, fish tacos, and grilled chicken that will leave a lasting impact on you. Also, several individuals have mentioned that this location serves outstanding Mexican beer, margaritas, and Sangria.
The 10 Best Restaurants to Visit in the Philippines
The most iconic restaurant in the Philippines, El Chupacabra, is a must-visit in Makati City. The restaurant has been around since the 90s and is famous for its grilled chicken and pork dishes. This restaurant is the place for you if you want something different from other Mexican restaurants.
Makati City Visitors Guide
Head to El Chupacabra for that authentic Mexican street taco as well as barbecue and affordable beers. They take pride in their street taco which is made of soft corn tortilla and comes in various fillings such as carne asada, camaron, carnitas, chorizo, lengua, and many others.
10 Best Vegetarian Restaurants in Metro Manila Perfect for Vegans
You can still continue your Mexican nights but better (and healthier) at El Chupacabra. Image: El Chupacabra’s Facebook Page. Vegetarian and vegan restaurants are becoming increasingly inventive these days, as they take well-known dishes and give them a healthier twist.
Discovering Makati: Manila’s Best Attractions -
One popular spot is El Chupacabra, which serves up mouthwatering tacos and other Mexican fare in a laid-back setting. The lively atmosphere is complemented by an extensive selection of craft beers and cocktails, making it a favourite among locals and visitors alike.
GUIDE: Mexican Food Pick Up and Delivery in Metro Manila
We're gearing up for the reopening of La Taqueria del Chupacabra!. Experience hassle-free mouthwatering tacos right at your doorstep and eat well like a Mexican. The traditional coloured plastic plate has been replaced by our new norm takeaway packaging.
7 muy delicioso Mexican restaurants for a Cinco de Mayo fiesta in Metro Manila
Every time we go to El Chupacabra — happy hour til late — the place is buzzing with energy. The staff are brisk, the diners are drunk and/or happy and the food is just right. The wait may be longer but ask to be seated inside — yes, there is an inside!.
Where to Eat in Poblacion, Makati: Must-Try Restaurants
Spice up your tastebuds with Tex-Mex cuisine at El Chupacabra. This tiny restaurant is not your average taco joint. Here, you’ll find a wide variety of authentic Mexican tacos⎯whether you’re looking for carnitas, lengua, or plant-based alternatives.
SEE: Outdoor dining by Manila Bay in Pasay
Indulge in the signature dishes of top restaurants like El Chupacabra, Monga, The Alley by Vikings, Mey Lin, Crying Tiger Kitchen, Gringo, Guagua’s Best, Laing ni Kap, TJ’s Manukan, Gen BBQ, Recovery Food and Golden Bamboo, among others.
EXPLORING THE NEIGHBORHOOD: POBLACION, MAKATI
Take for example El Chupacabra, it is a Tex-Mex food stop which is one of the pioneers in the food scene of Poblacion. It’s a crowd favorite and with affordable food and drinks. If you’re in the mall, you can try Hole in the Wall.
best tacos in manila Archives
El Chupacabra isn’t one of those posh 5-star restaurants – the food here is affordable and tasty!. Weekends are always packed, so if you want to try the food in a less crowded space, it’s better to visit during the weekdays.
best tacos philippines – Foodetc cooks – food, recipes and travel
Based on advise from a couple of friends we set foot on a place called “El Chupacabra”, or “the goat sucker”. The chupacabra is a goat blood-sucking creature that according to some is a myth.
3 days in Manila – a taste of the capital’s culture, color, and chaos
In Poblacion, check out Tambai Yakitori for pre-dinner tapas, El Chupacabra or Senor Pollo for Latin American meals, then end the night at A’toda Madre Tequila Bar.
Red Planet Hotels | Five Bang-for-the-Buck Dining Spots in Makati
Craving for authentic street tacos — filled with shredded al pastor pork and caramelised pineapple?. El Chupacabra in Poblacion has them. And we don’t mean Tex-Mex.
TOP 10 BEST Restaurants in Makati - Updated November 2024
I've come 55 years and thousands of miles to find the best street tacos in Makati Philippines. Unbelievable, El Chupacabre in Makati. "Everything" on...
The Ultimate Guide to Late Night Eating Spots & 24 Hour Restaurants in Manila
El Chupacabra and Nihonbashi Tei shouldn’t be left out in this list, as its one of the most popular late night eating spots in the city.
Top 27 Things to Do in Makati City
It’s a favorite spot for both locals and foreigners who want a taste of Mexican tacos with their go-to drinks.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit