Fil-Mex Tacos Are the Star at This New Poblacion Taqueria
There’s a new hole-in-the-wall taqueria in town. Located in Poblacion, Makati, Compañeros Taqueria features an avant-garde take on Mexican cuisine, combining the famous street tacos with Filipino food for a unique and flavorful twist.
Compañeros offers five different taco recipes, prepared in consultation with its Michelin-trained chef, Kevin David, to cater to different tastes. Owners Philip and Regine-Estillore Gonda say the taqueria is their “love letter to Filipino cuisine,” especially to the people who prepare the food, including eatery owners and street food vendors.
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“Mexican food, particularly tacos, is one of the most loved comfort food,” Philip Gonda, one of two founders, said. “We think it’s the perfect recipe to use in order to elevate Filipino [cuisine].”
“Plus, it’s so versatile,” added Regine Estillore-Gonda. “You have a blank canvas with a tortilla, where you can play with the flavors—the Mexican and Pinoy influences.”
A look at the menu
Meat lovers can indulge in a variety of recipes. For those who enjoy classic tacos, the Compañeros Quesabirria—a signature beef birria served with consomé, a rich sauce made with dried chilis and spices—is the perfect choice for a satisfying fill.
Other taco options include the Al Pastor Filipino Pork BBQ, featuring barbecue slow roasted on a trompo (vertical grill); Tapa Carne Asada (Grilled Steak), which has both premium Australian ribeye and tapa; and OG Pork Sisig, elevated with a mix of soy sauce and cream.
Of course, the taqueria has something for seafood lovers, too. The Crispy Fish taco consists of beer-battered local fish blended with Filipino green mango salad (Ensaladang Mangga) and Mexican salsa (Pico de Gallo). The tartar sauce is a great addition to the recipe, balancing out its sour and salty sides.
Personally, my favorite of all is the Al Pastor Filipino Pork BBQ. The rich and sweet slow-roasted pork barbecue on the corn tortilla, combined with spiced vinegar aioli, complement each other well enough for you to savor every bite. According to the owners, it's actually one of their most recommended picks, aside from the Compañeros Quesabirria.
Customers can enjoy all tacos either with the signature salsas of their choice or in rice bowls.
For a complete dining experience, Compañeros also serves delectable Fil-Mex appetizers, such as Chilaquiles con Longgarizo, Chicharon Bulaklak & Guacamole, and Salsa & Chips; as well as tasty house-made drinks and other beverages for palate cleansers.
