Mexican cravings around Japan
As part of our week-long series exploring Japan’s diverse dining scene, we’re excited to share our experiences at three Mexican restaurants that caught our attention. As native Mexicans, we’re always curious and happy to see how our beloved flavors are interpreted around the world. Join us on this journey as we discover the highs and lows of Mexican cuisine in Japan.
After several days of indulging in delicious Japanese cuisine, we found ourselves craving the familiar tastes of home. Eager to explore how Mexican food has been adapted in Japan, we researched the web to find the most regarded places in Google Maps or social media and tried them for ourselves.
Rubia: A High-End Twist on Mexican Classics
Our first stop was Rubia, a modern and elegant restaurant located in the bustling Shinjuku district. The sleek interior and lively music from the second-floor bar set the stage for an upscale dining experience.
We were impressed to learn that both chefs were from Mexico, and we eagerly discussed our order with them in Spanish since we had some struggles explaining our allergies to our waitress. However, the service fell short of our expectations, with confusion among the staff leading to delays and a critical mistake involving our tlayuda, a traditional Oaxacan dish.
Despite specifically mentioning our avocado allergy, the tlayuda arrived with an avocado sauce, forcing the kitchen to prepare the dish from scratch. This mishap, coupled with the overall subpar service, significantly detracted from our dining experience.
While the tacos were flavorful, the entire meal, which included drinks and other dishes, amounted to around $110 USD for two. Considering the inconsistent food quality and lackluster service, we felt that the price was unjustified. Despite the chefs’ best efforts and the restaurant’s upscale ambitions, Rubia fell short of our expectations.
Kitade Tacos: A Cozy Chain with Potential
Undeterred by our initial disappointment, we stumbled upon Kitade Tacos, a restaurant chain with promising reviews. The smaller restaurant and bustling kitchen hinted at a focus on takeout and delivery.
The quesadillas were flavorful enought to make them satisfy our cravings, even though the portion sizes were more modest than what we were used to. The guacamole and chips impressed us with their taste and texture, the chips were perfectly crisp and the guacamole well seasoned.
However, the long wait for our second round revealed the restaurant’s struggle to balance dine-in and delivery orders. Despite the hiccup, Kitade Tacos is a solid choice for a quick Mexican fix, particularly if you’re ordering through a delivery platform. While we didn’t have the opportunity to sample other dishes, the quesadillas left us with a positive impression of the chain’s potential.
Carne Asaeda: A Hidden Gem in Osaka
Our final and most memorable Mexican dining experience in Japan was at Carne Asaeda, a charming spot near Osaka’s metro station run by a friendly couple who fell in love with Mexican cuisine during their travels, this restaurant combines authenticity with a unique twist. The cozy, intimate atmosphere of Carne Asaeda was enhanced by the regional mexican music and the presence of another table of diners enjoying themselves over Mexican beers. The lively, friendly vibe made us feel right at home.
Starting with our order, the salad, while not composed of Mexican ingredients, showcased the restaurant’s creativity in blending flavors and ingredients. However, we had an issue since the staff wasn’t aware of all the salad ingredients which ended up causing a minor allergic reaction which thankfully didn’t escalate into any major issue.
Following our meal, the quesadillas encouraged us to try the star of the show, the carne asada, expertly grilled and incredibly juicy; accompanied by some classic Mexican sides such as beans and pico de gallo. We were amazed by how the couple’s short trip to Mexico inspired them to create such a standout version of this classic dish.
Carne Asaeda is an absolute must-visit for anyone craving Mexican flavors in Osaka. The warm hospitality, delightful food, and atmosphere make it an experience we can’t wait to repeat on our next visit.
The Fusion of Cultures and Cuisines
Throughout our culinary adventures in Japan, we’ve seen Japanese chefs excel at adopting and adapting cuisines from around the world. From Chef Honda’s Spanish-inspired creations at Zurriola to the mouthwatering Mexican dishes at Carne Asaeda, it’s clear that the fusion of cultures and experiences can lead to truly exceptional dining experiences.
We can’t wait to return to Japan and continue exploring the country’s ever-evolving culinary landscape, including its takes on French and Italian cuisine. Stay tuned for more culinary discoveries in our upcoming posts!
Frequently Asked Questions
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Are Mexican restaurants common in Japan? While Mexican restaurants aren’t as ubiquitous as other international cuisines like Italian or French, they have been gaining popularity in recent years. You can find Mexican restaurants in major cities like Tokyo and Osaka, particularly in areas with a more international presence.
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What are some must-try Mexican dishes in Japan? Some popular Mexican dishes to try in Japan include tacos, quesadillas, and enchiladas. However, don’t be afraid to branch out and try lesser-known regional specialties or fusion creations unique to Japanese Mexican restaurants. Be sure to ask your server for recommendations based on your preferences.
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What are some must-try Mexican tequilas in Japan? We highly recommend Tequila Ocho, Tequila Cascahuin, and Tequila Don Fulano. These tequilas may be somewhat challenging to find in Japan, so if you come across them, be sure to treat yourself and give them a try. Keep in mind that availability may vary depending on the location and the establishment.
