Lagrima

Lagrima, home of authentic Los Angeles-style Mexican flavors in Manila, has been satisfying cravings since 2016. So far, this bright, young taqueria is smashing expectations with its creative tweaks to traditional Mexican dishes. The Kimchi Quesadilla, for example, fuses the acidic spiciness of kimchi with the gooey cheese goodness of beloved quesadillas. Then there’s another crowd favorite, the Burrito Plate, which is served open style with a protein of your choice along with burrito mainstays like refried beans, cabbage, seasoned rice, and salsa. One thing to remember when ordering from Lagrima’s menu is to include a drink. You won’t regret having a glass of margarita or their signature fruit beverage, the Strawberry Horchata that also comes in a classic flavor, after your meal.   

To keep most of the attention on the food, Lagrima’s interiors in their three branches are minimalistic yet effortlessly hip. Patterned after the dynamism of the city of Seoul, South Korea, Lagrima’s décor capitalizes on concrete, high ceilings and strategic lighting. You can’t expect anything less from its owner, restaurateur Mano Lotho, who’s had a love affair with tacos since he was a kid. Walk into Lagrima with one expectation: muy caliente food and drinks. It will deliver every time.   

Lagrima has branches in San Juan (open daily from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m.), Makati (open daily from 11 a.m. to 12 a.m.), and New Manila (open daily from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m.). You may also order its menu items online through this link. 

Price range: P130-P1,940 for food; P90-P420 for drinks 

Visit Lagrima on Facebook and Instagram.