July 05, 2019

Mayas Filipino & Mexican Cuisine: A Tropical Mix of International Flavors in Boracay

Mayas Filipino & Mexican Cuisine goes alongside Jony’s Fruit Shakes in serving Chef Jun Salme’s timeless dishes.

The Combo– Mayas and Jony’s along Station 1 White Beach Path is a favorite among tourists.

The restaurant’s history can be traced back to 1982, the same year when Jony’s Fruit Shakes was established. This is when Boracay is in its simplest form – without any electricity.

Also Read: The Lind Boracay: A Luxurious Hideaway Resort for Gourmands and Island Lovers

It was only in 2014 when the restaurant is finally given the name “Mayas Filipino & Mexican Cuisine” which originated from the country’s local bird, “maya,” and the indigenous people of Mexico, “the Mayans”.

Mayas give off a refreshing vibe with its open atmosphere, complemented by wood accents and pristine white walls.

Now, Mayas and Jony’s are both an unmistakable duo in Boracay, situated along the White Beach Path in Station 1. With an al fresco dining setting, surrounded by palm trees and several potted plants, Mayas embodies the tropical island itself.

Mayas is also a proper beach bar, serving cocktails and other beverages on the island.

The family-owned business highlights Chef Jun Salme’s Filipino dishes including Mayas Chicken Inasal. This hearty meal is made with boneless chicken and is inspired by the owner’s Bacoleño (Bacolod) roots.

Their chicken is tender and flavorful, best dipped in soy sauce with calamansi (Philippine lime).

Mayas Chicken Inasal (Php 398)

Mayas’ Lechon Kawali, on the other hand, undergoes 4 processes, making its taste and texture one of the best in the island. The dish is crispy on the outside and juicy inside, with just the right flavors to satisfy your palates.

Mayas’ Lechon Kawali (Php 558)

For Mexican flavors, try their Tacos Al Pastor made with their homemade fresh corn tortilla, beans, onion, cilantro rice, and slow-cooked pork shoulder made to bite your tongue with spice, countered by their avocado. Also, try their aromatic and fragrant Carnitas Burrito.

Tacos Al Pastor (Php 428)

Carnitas Burrito (Php 508)

All of their homemade sauces and spices brings to life the authentic Mexican flavors as the recipe was shared by an Ambassador to the Philippines from Mexico!

As the heat of the sun continues to warm Boracay, visit Mayas to try Jony’s original and famous fruit shakes such as the Avocado and Strawberry shakes, with sweetness coming from the very essence of the freshest fruits on the island.

Also Read: Lemoni Cafe and Restaurant in Boracay: A Zesty Haven for Health Buffs

Strawberry and Avocado Shake (Php 170)

For a thirst-quenching and fulfilling lunch on the island, visit Mayas to get a taste of Mexico in Boracay!

How to get here:

Mayas Filipino & Mexican Cuisine is located in Station 1.
From Caticlan Airport, ride a van going to Caticlan Jetty Port. This will take you to Cagban Jetty Port. From there, ride an e-tricycle to Mayas. The e-tricycle will most likely drop you off at Jony’s Beach Resort on the other side of the road. Cross the road and you will get to Mayas in no time.
From Kalibo Airport, ride a van or bus going to Caticlan Jetty Port. From the port, get on a boat to Cagban Jetty Port. Alight at the port and ride a tricycle going to Mayas. The e-tricycle will most likely drop you off at Jony’s Beach Resort on the other side of the road. Cross the road and you will get to Mayas in no time.
From Boracay’s D’Mall, turn right and walk straight for 8 minutes towards Station 1. You will see Mayas just right before Bamboo Lounge and Mamita’s Grill.

This first appeared in Philippine Primer Japanese Magazine’s May 2019 issue.