Chef Patrick Curitana chatting with guests at Los Tacos MNL

Our Story

From pandemic necessity to Michelin recognition

Three varieties of Mexican corn kernels used for house-made tortillas

Born Out of Necessity

In June 2020, at the height of the pandemic, Chef Patrick Curitana found himself needing to pay the bills. Inspired by a viral birria video from Teddy's Red Tacos, he launched Los Tacos MNL as a delivery-only taco and birria concept from his home kitchen.

What started as a survival move quickly became a calling. Word spread among food lovers and fellow chefs across Metro Manila, and Los Tacos MNL grew into a cult favorite long before it had a permanent address.

Chefs at Los Tacos MNL pressing tortillas in the open kitchen

Real Masa, No Shortcuts

What truly sets Los Tacos MNL apart is the tortilla. While most taquerias rely on masa harina (pre-processed corn flour), Chef Patrick imports three varieties of Mexican corn kernels -- blue, white, and red -- that are nixtamalized and ground on-site daily.

This labor-intensive process creates tortillas with a depth of flavor and texture that simply cannot be replicated with shortcuts. Each taco is pressed to order on the open kitchen counter, right in front of diners.

Los Tacos MNL restaurant interior showing open kitchen, counter seating, and dried corn decoration

A Home in Uptown BGC

After a successful extended pop-up at Magallanes Bistro Cafe in Makati, Los Tacos MNL found its permanent home at the Upper Ground Level of One Uptown Residences in BGC.

The 40-seat space features an open kitchen with counter seating that lets you watch every taco being pressed and plated. Warm terracotta tones, concrete surfaces, dried corn husks hanging from the ceiling, and an intimate wine display create an atmosphere that feels both refined and welcoming.

Our Timeline

2020

The Launch

Los Tacos MNL begins as a delivery-only taco and birria concept during the pandemic, born from Chef Patrick's kitchen.

2023

Magallanes Pop-Up

An extended pop-up residency at Magallanes Bistro Cafe in Makati brings the brand its first physical dining space.

2025

BGC Permanent Home

Los Tacos MNL opens its permanent 40-seat restaurant at One Uptown Residences in BGC, Taguig.

2026

Michelin Bib Gourmand

Awarded a Michelin Bib Gourmand in the 2026 MICHELIN Guide Philippines for good quality, good value cooking.

Chef Patrick Curitana carefully plating tacos at the kitchen pass

Chef Patrick Curitana

Chef Patrick Curitana is the heart and soul of Los Tacos MNL. His "no rules" philosophy means drawing from Mexican tradition while fearlessly incorporating local Filipino ingredients and personal creativity.

Known for his warm hospitality, Chef Patrick regularly steps out of the kitchen to chat with diners, explaining the story behind each dish and the provenance of his ingredients. His dedication to making everything from scratch -- from the tortillas to the moles to the salsas -- has earned the respect of Manila's food community and Michelin inspectors alike.

Michelin Bib Gourmand 2026

Come Taste the Difference

Experience real masa and fearless Mexican flavors at our BGC kitchen.