If you find yourself in Tokyo, Japan, with a craving for Mexican food, then you are in luck. While you will want to experience Japanese cuisine, Tokyo has some of the best foreign restaurants.
However, just like with any city, it can be hard to come by authentic food. Having said that, there are many places to enjoy Mexican food staples, such as delicious chilies, beans, and tacos.
If you are in need of some food inspiration for your next visit to Japan, then check out these 8 of the best Mexican restaurants in Tokyo.
What Makes Good Mexican Food?
As someone who enjoys a lot of Mexican food, then you will know precisely the kind you are after. What makes Mexican food so delicious is the use of spices and herbs.
Mexico produces food that is very flavorful and enjoyable to eat. It is also very hearty and smells amazing too.
While you will find common Mexican food dishes in Tokyo, you may also want to try a dish that encompasses the Japanese take on Mexican food.
You are likely never to experience it anywhere else, so it could be a fun option. For this reason, do not be downhearted if you cannot find traditional Mexican food near where you are staying.
Fortunately, Japan has one of the best public transport systems in the world. Because of this, you will be able to travel all over Tokyo to find the best Mexican restaurants to satisfy that craving.
The Best Mexican Restaurants In Tokyo
Here are 8 of the best Mexican restaurants which are situated in Tokyo:
1. La Mex
To start this list, La Mex has taken the number one spot – not that this list is in any particular order. However, it is a fun Mexican restaurant based in Tokyo.
With a focus on delicious food and beer – in particular, Corona – it is the kind of place to go to have an enjoyable evening meal. You might even want to stick around for an extra beer. They do have a tequila option too if that tickles your fancy.
It can become quite busy in La Mex. They have music events and special evenings. For this reason, it is the place to go for a good time, rather than a quick lunch on the go.
This is certainly somewhere to check out if you are wanting to go to a place that is buzzing and has a great atmosphere.
2. Tacos Shop Ikejiri
This Taco Shop based in Tokyo is very popular with travelers and locals alike. It is so loved that it even sells its own merchandise.
This means you can arrive back home from Tokyo with your very own Taco Shop sweater or tote bag.
It is the place to go if you want to grab delicious Mexican food while you are out and about. If you are hoping to sit down and eat, this will not be the place. However, you can buy food up until 2 am.
The food outlet serves traditional Mexican ingredients such as suadero (which is beef), and carnitas. You will also find exciting flavor combos such as passion fruit and ricotta cheese.
There are also vegan options too. Starting at just ¥400 for a taco, you would be silly not to visit!
3. Los Tacos Azules
There is something special about finding a really good place to eat. This is where Los Tacos Azules comes in. Head chef and owner, Marco Garcia, was born in Mexico. He creates seasonal traditional Mexican dishes.
While he makes a lot of the food in-house, he also imports ingredients from Mexico for an authentic taste.
This restaurant is ideal as a place to eat breakfast, but you can also reserve a spot for dinner too. The tortillas are made specially in front of customers, and they look (and taste) amazing.
If you do plan to be a walk-in, you can request something from the a la carte menu. However, you will need to order by 2 pm for closing at 3 pm.
Despite its early close, cold beer can be ordered. However, you might want to try the Mexican chocolate or coffee for something unique.
4. La Cabina
Sometimes you just don’t have time to sit down and eat, no matter how hungry you are. Fear not though, as La Cabina has got you covered – especially if it is Mexican food that you are craving.
Run by Haim Cifuentes, who is both the owner and Mexican-born and bred head chef. She creates Mexican-inspired dishes that have been passed on to her throughout generations of her family.
These include the much-loved tacos, as well as carnitas and al pastor. That means you can have your fill of Mexican-style shredded pork, as well as grilled pork topped with some sweet pineapple.
Tacos will cost you around ¥580 for two, or up to ¥1,300 for four.
5. La Jolla
This Shibuya-based Meixan restaurant prides itself on its authentic flavors and ingredients. Situated opposite the Softbank Shop, you will find a plethora of different dishes.
In fact, this place is known to change up its menu quite a lot to keep things fresh. They have created over 100 special dishes to please customers.
You will find a lot of organic ingredients straight from Mexico. These include poplano, tomatillo, and jalapeno.
One of the best things about this restaurant is the huevos rancheros – also known as the Mexican breakfast. It includes both soft-boiled eggs and haricot beans. It comes with a fresh and delicious salsa too.
If you are wanting seafood, La Jolla – meaning ‘shining gem’ in Spanish (which is said ‘la joya’) – the food outlet also includes fish tacos on their menu.
6. Taco Fanatico
This place is not the most authentic Mexican experience, but if you are after a Japanese twist when it comes to eating Tex-Mex, then you will be very happy.
It also has a real buzz about it, meaning it is a great one to go with friends – especially in the evening.
There are many crowd-pleasers on the menu. From nacho fries and tortillas to jalapeno poppers, you will never be disappointed. In fact, with a margarita in hand, you will be ready to eat and people-watch.
There are both meat and vegan options when it comes to food selection. However, what is most impressive is the amount of tequila there is to drink. You can enjoy a trio tequila tasting for ¥1000 and up.
There is also a frozen margarita option to enjoy on sticky and warm nights during Japan’s summer season.
This is the kind of place to go if you are expecting the night to be long, rather than as a place to stop by for lunch.
7. Kiyas
If you are looking for a decadent Mexican experience, then Kiyas is it. You will find that the food here is a lot smaller than your average Mexican food outlet.
This is because it is the kind of place you drink wine along with tiny tacos.
There is a Japanese take on some of the Mexican food. This can make eating it quite fun because all of the Mexican flavors are still there. However, it is mixed with some Japanese favorites too.
There is the option to try the carne asada platter, which basically means building your own taco. It is a great thing to do on a date. You can also have fun creating tacos with friends and family too.
There are many non-traditional options on the menu. For example, a foie gras taco is served with apple compote.
8. Casa De Sarasa
If you find yourself in Shibuya anytime soon, then Case De Sarasa is going to be the place to go for Mexican food. Another location is soon to open in Okinawa.
There is a really fun vibe here that suits those who are looking to enjoy a wonderful experience too. Not only is there a resident DJ, but they are very active with their social accounts.
You might even find yourself photographed for it.
The taco box is a good option if you are wondering what to order. You can even have a birthday bite selection, as well as the popular tacos with a range of toppings.
There are often seasonal decorations too, as well as events. It really is a buzzing place that is sure to get you excited for the evening ahead.
Final Thoughts
Now that you have seen this list of Mexican restaurants in Tokyo, which one are you hoping to try first?
Obviously, as a tourist, it makes sense to check out the one closest to you first. However, you will also want to travel just that little bit further to enjoy more Mexican food.
If you are planning to stay in Tokyo long-term, then you will be happy to know that Mexican food is definitely a staple of a Japanese person’s diet too. For this reason, there are many restaurants that cater to Mexican cuisine.
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