El Maiz is a culinary gem that celebrates the rich heritage of Mexican cuisine, focusing on the staple ingredient of corn — or “maiz” in Spanish. The menu is designed to offer a vibrant and authentic experience, combining traditional recipes with modern twists that highlight the versatility of maize-based dishes.
From appetizers to main courses and desserts, every item on the El Maiz menu is crafted to bring out the flavors, textures, and history embedded in Mexican food culture. Whether you are a fan of classic tacos or intrigued by innovative tamale variations, El Maiz promises a journey through Mexico’s diverse culinary landscape.
Core Philosophy Behind El Maiz Menu
The menu centers around maize not only as an ingredient but as a symbol of Mexican identity. Corn has been a fundamental crop for indigenous communities for thousands of years, and El Maiz honors this legacy through its offerings.
The chefs use heirloom corn varieties, fresh masa (corn dough), and authentic cooking techniques such as nixtamalization—a process that enhances the nutritional value and flavor of corn. This commitment ensures that every dish is both delicious and true to its roots.
“At El Maiz, every bite connects you to centuries of tradition, culture, and passion for food.” — Chef Alejandro Morales
Menu Categories
The El Maiz menu is thoughtfully organized into distinct sections to help diners explore a wide array of flavors.
- Appetizers: Small plates and starters that prepare the palate.
- Soups & Salads: Light and hearty options featuring fresh ingredients.
- Tacos & Tortas: The heart of the menu, showcasing various fillings and corn-based breads.
- Specialties: Signature dishes with complex preparations.
- Vegetarian & Vegan Options: Delicious meat-free dishes using corn and seasonal vegetables.
- Desserts: Sweet treats inspired by traditional Mexican sweets.
- Beverages: Including aguas frescas, Mexican sodas, and specialty drinks.
Appetizers
El Maiz appetizers are designed to be shared and are packed with bold flavors and textures. Each dish uses fresh corn products or complementary ingredients to showcase the versatility of maize.
| Dish | Description | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Elote Asado | Grilled corn on the cob, coated with chipotle mayo, cotija cheese, and a sprinkle of chili powder. | $7.50 |
| Esquites | A traditional Mexican street snack of sautéed corn kernels mixed with lime, mayonnaise, cheese, and chili flakes. | $6.00 |
| Mini Tamales Trio | Three bite-sized tamales with fillings of chicken mole, rajas con queso (poblano peppers and cheese), and sweet corn. | $9.50 |
| Chips & Guacamole | House-made corn tortilla chips served with fresh guacamole, pico de gallo, and a hint of jalapeño. | $8.00 |
Soups & Salads
These lighter dishes balance the menu with fresh vegetables and robust broths that complement maize-based ingredients.
| Dish | Description | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Caldo de Elote | Creamy sweet corn soup infused with epazote and finished with a drizzle of chile oil. | $8.50 |
| Sopa de Frijol Negro | Black bean soup with roasted corn, topped with queso fresco and fresh cilantro. | $7.00 |
| Ensalada de Nopal | Cactus salad mixed with tomatoes, onions, avocado, and toasted corn kernels dressed in lime vinaigrette. | $9.00 |
| Mexican Street Salad | Mixed greens, grilled corn, cherry tomatoes, jicama, cotija cheese with a chili-lime dressing. | $8.50 |
Tacos & Tortas
The taco and torta section is the centerpiece of El Maiz, offering a variety of fillings wrapped in soft corn tortillas or served in freshly baked bolillo rolls.
| Item | Description | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Taco al Pastor | Marinated pork cooked on a vertical spit, served with pineapple, onions, cilantro, and salsa verde on a corn tortilla. | $4.50 each |
| Taco de Pescado | Grilled fish with cabbage slaw, chipotle mayo, and fresh lime on a handmade corn tortilla. | $5.00 each |
| Torta de Milanesa | Crispy breaded beef steak sandwich with avocado, tomato, lettuce, jalapeños, and refried beans. | $11.00 |
| Vegan Mushroom Tacos | Sautéed wild mushrooms, roasted corn, and pickled red onions with salsa roja on corn tortillas. | $4.75 each |
| Taco de Carnitas | Slow-cooked pork shoulder with smoky chipotle salsa, onions, and cilantro. | $4.75 each |
Specialties
These dishes highlight the culinary expertise and creativity at El Maiz, featuring traditional recipes alongside innovative preparations.
| Dish | Description | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Oaxacan Mole Poblano | Rich, complex sauce made with over 20 ingredients including chocolate, served over chicken with rice and tortillas. | $16.00 |
| Chiles en Nogada | Poblano peppers stuffed with picadillo (meat and fruit mixture), topped with walnut cream sauce and pomegranate seeds. | $18.00 |
| Tamales de Elote con Queso | Fresh corn tamales stuffed with Oaxaca cheese, steamed in corn husks. | $12.00 |
| Barbacoa de Res | Slow-cooked beef barbacoa with a side of consommé and handmade tortillas. | $17.00 |
Vegetarian & Vegan Options
El Maiz proudly offers a variety of meat-free dishes that do not compromise on flavor or heartiness. These options make extensive use of fresh corn, beans, vegetables, and traditional spices.
| Dish | Description | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Vegan Tamal de Rajas | Corn tamale filled with roasted poblano peppers and vegan cheese. | $11.00 |
| Quesadilla de Flor de Calabaza | Handmade corn tortilla filled with squash blossoms and Oaxaca cheese (vegan cheese available on request). | $10.00 |
| Vegetarian Tostadas | Crispy corn tortillas topped with refried beans, avocado, lettuce, tomato, queso fresco, and salsa roja. | $9.00 |
| Grilled Veggie Fajitas | Seasonal vegetables grilled and served with corn tortillas, guacamole, and pico de gallo. | $14.00 |
Desserts
The dessert menu at El Maiz brings the sweet side of Mexican tradition to the table. Classic ingredients like corn, cinnamon, chocolate, and tropical fruits are featured prominently.
| Dessert | Description | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Arroz con Leche | Creamy Mexican rice pudding infused with cinnamon and vanilla, served chilled. | $6.50 |
| Churros con Chocolate | Fried dough pastries rolled in cinnamon sugar, served with warm Mexican chocolate sauce. | $7.50 |
| Pastel de Elote | Sweet corn cake made from fresh corn, lightly spiced and topped with a drizzle of caramel. | $6.75 |
| Flan de Cajeta | Traditional Mexican caramel custard made with goat milk caramel sauce. | $7.00 |
Beverages
El Maiz’s beverage offerings complement the food perfectly, with refreshing drinks that balance the rich and spicy flavors of the menu.
| Drink | Description | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Agua de Jamaica | Hibiscus flower iced tea, tart and sweet. | $4.00 |
| Agua de Tamarindo | Tamarind flavored iced drink with a hint of lime. | $4.00 |
| Mexican Hot Chocolate | Rich chocolate drink spiced with cinnamon and chili. | $5.50 |
| Michelada | Mexican beer cocktail with lime, tomato juice, hot sauce, and spices. | $8.00 |
| Fresh Lime Soda | Carbonated lime beverage with a touch of sweetness. | $3.50 |
Why Choose El Maiz?
El Maiz stands out not only for its dedication to authentic Mexican flavors but also for its focus on sustainability and cultural respect. Ingredients are sourced from local farms and cooperatives that grow heirloom corn varieties, supporting indigenous agricultural traditions.
The kitchen practices eco-friendly waste reduction and composting, ensuring that the restaurant’s environmental footprint is minimized. Diners can enjoy their meals with the knowledge that their experience contributes positively to the community.
“Eating at El Maiz is an immersive cultural experience — it’s where history, flavor, and sustainability meet.” — Food Critic Maria Lopez
How to Order
The El Maiz menu is designed for both casual dining and special occasions. Most dishes are available for dine-in, takeout, and delivery.
The restaurant also offers customizable tasting menus for groups interested in exploring a curated selection of maize-based dishes.
Reservations are recommended during weekends and holidays, especially for larger parties. The staff is friendly and knowledgeable, happy to guide diners through the menu and suggest wine or mezcal pairings.
Conclusion
The El Maiz menu is a celebration of Mexican culinary heritage through the lens of maize, an ingredient that has nourished generations. With a range of dishes from street food favorites to elegant specialties, it offers something for everyone.
Every item is a testament to craftsmanship, authenticity, and respect for tradition. Whether you are a longtime lover of Mexican cuisine or a newcomer eager to explore, El Maiz invites you to savor the true taste of Mexico’s most cherished grain.
