Stress? Poof. Hunger? Satisfied. If you’re looking for a place where the food warms your soul and the atmosphere feels like a big, colorful hug, La Elotes is your answer. With the eatery’s pops of color, soothing music, and dishes that feel like a hug, it is a cozy corner of Mexican flavors, fresh vibes, and the kind of energy that makes you forget the chaos outside.

Nestled just beside Benilde’s Design and Arts (D+A) campus, La Elotes is a haven for students, locals, and anyone in need of a little comfort food with a Mexican twist. Think birria tacos that taste like they were crafted by a loving abuela, walls bursting with pops of color, and a vibe so inviting it almost whispers, “Stay a while.” 

The moment you step inside, you're enveloped in a warm, inviting ambiance that screams Bienvenido! From the vibrant artworks on the walls to the lively chatter of patrons, every element of La Elotes is designed to transport you to a vibrant Mexican festival, no passport required. And at the heart of it all are its two co-founders, Benildean ID118 Isis Micaiah Singian, an AB Film alumna, and her partner John Paul Reyes.

On the drawing board

La Elotes wasn’t born in a big, bustling kitchen. It started in their home during the pandemic, a time when the world seemed to have hit pause. “I was just looking for something to do, something productive,” Ms. Singian shares. And thus, the seed for La Elotes was planted, with the two founders selling elotes online.

But their love for experimenting with food and creating memorable dining experiences didn’t end there. Ms. Singian and Mr. Reyes’ flair for design and appreciation for vibrant aesthetics led to the creation of La Elotes into the colorful, welcoming corner it is today.

“I’ve always been drawn to pops of color," she explains. "Even back in college, I loved clean aesthetics with bold, fun shades. It sparks a feeling of excitement, and that’s exactly what I wanted people to feel when they step into La Elotes.” 

True to her vision, the eatery doesn’t just serve food–it’s a sanctuary. “I wanted to create a safe place where people could relax, feel happy, and know their hard-earned money was well-spent,” Ms. Singian adds. With its carefully chosen music, vibrant art-covered boards, and homey vibe, La Elotes feels like the kind of place you’d visit not just for a meal, but to recharge.

Abuela’s kitchen: A taste of Mexico

For those craving bold flavors and exciting textures, La Elotes serves up Mexican food reimagined with heart and authenticity. From crispy birria tacos to refreshing drinks with a zing, this spot brings the vibrant energy of Mexico straight to your table. With food and drinks starting at just ₱100, it’s the perfect place for students, foodies, or anyone looking for a satisfying flavor trip.

Birria Tacos

A crowd favorite in La Elotes’ menu, their Birria Tacos are a flavorful explosion in every bite. Each taco is filled with juicy, slow-cooked beef, gooey cheese, and packed into a crisp, golden shell. Whether you’re grabbing two for ₱280 or going all in with 12 pieces for ₱1550, these tacos promise a melting pot of savory, spicy, and satisfying flavors in every bite. Don’t skip the side of birria consommé—it’s the dipping experience that seals the deal.

Shrimp Burrito
 A fresh spin on a classic, the Shrimp Burrito layers together flavorful shrimp, zesty cilantro rice, and bold Mexican seasoning for a satisfying handheld meal. It’s a cohesive bite that manages to be both hearty and refreshing—perfect for anyone craving something light yet filling. You can grab this bold, seafood-forward favorite for ₱400.

Fish Burrito
Created as a seasonal Lenten flavor, the Fish Burrito features delicately fried fish with a soft bite, wrapped up with rice and fresh toppings in a warm tortilla. It captures the clean, crisp flavors of the sea while still delivering that comforting Mexican flair. A flavorful twist on tradition, and yours to enjoy for only ₱300.

Elotes

A true staple of Mexican street food, La Elotes’ namesake dish is a celebration of flavor, texture, and tradition. The smoky aroma of charred corn pairs beautifully with the creaminess of mayo and the salty richness of grated cheese. Whether you go for the classic corn-on-the-cob or the convenient en vaso or shredded cup version, each bite is layered with warmth and comfort. It’s the kind of snack that’s simple yet unforgettable, which you can indulge in for just ₱100.

Horchata

A comforting sip that feels like a hug in a cup, Horchata is La Elotes’ traditional Mexican drink that’s both creamy and refreshing. It blends the subtle graininess of rice milk with the warm sweetness of cinnamon for a milky, smooth finish that soothes the palate. Whether you're winding down from a spicy birria taco or a flavorful burrito, this drink is the perfect cooldown—and you can enjoy it for just ₱110.

Mangonada

An adventurous twist on the classic mango shake, the Mangonada balances sweetness and spice in a way that’s both surprising and satisfying. Infused with chamoy and chili, this frozen drink is reminiscent of childhood tamarind or chamoy candies—only now in slushy form. For those with a curious palate, it’s a bold cultural favorite that might raise eyebrows at first sip but will have you hooked by the last, all for only ₱200.

Strawberry Mojito (Mocktail)

Sweet, citrusy, and wonderfully refreshing, the Strawberry Mojito is a playful non-alcoholic treat. It blends ripe strawberries with zesty lemon soda and a cooling hit of mint for a drink that starts sweet, turns tangy, and ends on a soothing note. It’s the perfect go-to drink for anyone craving something light and fun, available for just ₱160.

A call to home

La Elotes isn’t just a place to eat, it’s a small taste of Mexico nestled in the city. From the first bite of a cheesy birria taco to the last sip of sweet, creamy horchata, every dish feels like being welcomed into abuela’s kitchen. The smell of grilled corn, the sound of sizzling meat, and the layers of flavor in every bite bring you back to where food is made with heart.

This is comfort food in its purest form. Simple, bold, and rooted in tradition. Whether you’re swinging by for a quick elote or sitting down with friends over burritos and drinks, La Elotes serves more than food. It offers a moment to slow down and savor.

So if you’re craving something familiar yet exciting, something that makes you close your eyes and smile after every bite, let La Elotes take you there. Because here, you don’t just eat; you come home.