CHINO MNL in One Bonifacio High: Your Mexican Restaurant with Japanese and Filipino Twist
It’s rare to spot restaurants nowadays that offer distinctive flavors—particularly one that mixes two or more cuisines. That’s what makes CHINO unique—a Mexican style restaurant inspired by Japanese ingredients and cooking techniques located in One Bonifacio High, Taguig City.
CHINO MNL interior / IMAGE Stephanie Jung courtesy of Chino MNL
Owner and Executive Chef Erik Idos grew up in Los Angeles, and it’s undoubtedly the place where you can see some of the best Mexican street food in the world. Along with his interest in Japanese cuisine that developed while working at Nobu in California, New York, and Hong Kong for eight years, Chef Erik was able to combine two culinary passions that gave birth to CHINO.
As a family style, neighborhood restaurant, CHINO focuses on the fresh, seasonal, and creative menu to entice their customers. Chef Erik uses Japanese cooking techniques and ingredients from the Philippines to create a masterpiece of Mexican menu.
Wall art mural by Aaron de la Cruz / IMAGE Stephanie Jung courtesy of Chino MNL
The first CHINO branch opened in Hong Kong in 2014, and the recent one opened in Bonifacio Global City just this June. The interior itself is enough to know that this place isn’t your ordinary Mexican restaurant, with a magnificent mural on the wall by artist Aaron de la Cruz.
If you’re visiting the place, we suggest you try their signature dishes like Crispy Market Fish Tacos with Salsa Fresca, Grilled Corn with Chipotle Kewpie, and Chorizo Aji Amarillo Clams with Crispy Shallots. You may also up your Taco Tuesday with their Grilled Shrimp Taco with Salsa Macha and Guacamole (Php 225).
Grilled Shrimp Taco with Salsa Macha and Guacamole (Php 225)/ IMAGE Stephanie Jung courtesy of Chino MNL
Their Manila-inspired food like Goat Barbacoa Tacos with Cucumber Mint Salsa and Kale Chorizo Tacos with Cotija Cheese is also something to drool over. But if you’re craving for rice meals, their Sakura Ebi Rice (Php 550) is worth trying.
Sakura Ebi Rice (Php 550)/ IMAGE Stephanie Jung courtesy of Chino MNL
Another CHINO MNL special is the Tuna Tataki with Salsa Veracruz and Avocado Puree (Php 625). This appetizer is very flavorful and yet light on the stomach—perfect to start your meal.
Tuna Tataki (Php 625) / IMAGE Stephanie Jung courtesy of Chino MNL
As for their drinks, CHINO offers a curated collection of tequila and mezcal, along with special local brewery like Joe’s Brew, on an exclusive CHINO Cerveza. Highballs, sparkling sodas from Nipa Brew, and imported sodas from Japan are also available in the bar.
Makers High (Php 350) / IMAGE Stephanie Jung courtesy of Chino MNL
Chino MNL will surely satisfy your palate, making you come back for more of their mouthwatering dishes with a twist. It’s not every day that you can taste all three cuisines in one!
