Taco Rice: A Fusion Dish That Brings Okinawa to Your Plate

Hey foodies, today let’s taco ’bout one of Japan’s tastiest and most popular dishes — taco rice! Taco Rice, or タコライス (Takoraisu), is a beloved Okinawan dish that combines elements of Mexican and Japanese cuisines. While a staple in Okinawa, its popularity has spread to Tokyo and Kansai, making it accessible even if you can’t travel to Japan’s southernmost islands.

The Origins of Taco Rice

Trust me when I say it’s not just a dish; it’s a cultural bridge and comfort food. Taco Rice was created in 1984 by Matsuzo Gibo, the owner of a small eatery, Parlor Senri, near the U.S. military base in Kin, Okinawa. He wanted to cater to the American soldiers stationed nearby, ultimately settling on the familiar taste of tacos. However, instead of tortillas, Gibo served the seasoned ground beef and toppings over a bed of Japanese rice. The result was an instant hit, and it quickly became a beloved dish across Okinawa, symbolizing the unique blend of cultures in the region.

What Makes Taco Rice Special?

Taco rice is loved for its simplicity, making it a popular home-cooked meal. Picture this: a bed of fluffy rice topped with seasoned ground beef, fresh lettuce, diced tomatoes, cheese, and sometimes salsa or sour cream! But this isn’t all there is to this delicious dish; you can also find many variations among the toppings and flavors available for you to try. Some versions include avocado, tomatoes, jalapeños, or even eggs. It’s simple, bursting with flavor, and allows you to customize it so that it is perfectly fitted to your specific tastes.

Did you know?

October 4th was Taco Day! That makes OCTOBER the month to celebrate tacos, it’s the perfect time to try taco rice, a unique Japanese take on the classic taco. Whether in Tokyo or Kansai or making it at home, taco rice is a delicious way to celebrate! So make sure you grab your own bowl come October 4th and join in on all the taco-related festivities.

Where to Enjoy Taco Rice in Tokyo & Kansai area?

Craving taco rice in Tokyo? Don’t miss out on savoring mouthwatering taco rice in this bustling city. While taco rice is simple to make at home, there are plenty of great places to try it in Tokyo and Kansai! Check out these top spots that I found for you!

Tono Café in Bunkyo City, Tokyo

Tono Cafe restaurant has three locations, each housed in a food truck, which are located at the main shop, a two-minute walk from Edogawabashi Station on the Yurakucho Line, and finally in the office district. But if you are unable to make it to any of these locations, don’t worry, as they also offer a delivery service. This cafe typically serves their taco rice topped with an egg. However, they also have plenty of creative variations available, like Thai Chicken Taco Rice and Avocado Spam Bowl.

Address: 2 Chome-12-17 Suido, Bunkyo City, Tokyo 112-0005, Japan

Opening Hours: Monday – Thursday: 9 am – 8 pm

Friday: 9 am – 3 pm

Sunday: 10 am – 2:30 pm

(Hours can change depending on the day and holidays, so keep in mind)

Price range: 1-1000 yen per person

Website: https://tono-cafe.jp/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tono.cafe.111/

Madosh! Café in Shibuya City, Tokyo

Madosh! Café in Shibuya is a must-visit, and they are big fans of avocados. They use it in almost every dish they offer! One standout item is the taco rice, where the generous addition of avocado takes it up a notch. This dish features a bed of rice and lettuce topped with meat, cheese, and tortilla chips, all surrounded by plump scoops of avocado. Mixing it all creates a truly delicious dish that somebody shouldn’t miss.

Address: 5 Chome-28-7 Jingumae, Shibuya City, Tokyo 150-000, Japan

Opening Hours: Monday – Sunday: 11:30 am – 10 pm

(Hours can change depending on the day and holidays so keep this in mind)

Price range: 1000-2000 yen per person

Website: http://mado.in/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/madosh_official/?hl=nl

Moga Café in Shibuya City, Tokyo

Mobomoga café is on the second floor of a small grey building on the backstreet of Shibuya. It is a cosy little cove with a warm, retro atmosphere. The interior is mostly wooden, creating a cute cabin vibe with eclectic American decorations. They have a wide menu and Taco Rice! It’s a must-visit spot and only a 10-minute walk from Shibuya station.

Address: 〒150-0042 Tokyo, Shibuya City, Udagawacho, 4−9, Kuretake Bldg., 2F, Japan

Opening Hours: Monday: 11 am – 10 pm

Tuesday – Saturday: 11:30 am – 11 pm

Sunday: 11 am – 10 pm

(Hours can change depending on the day and holidays, so keep this in mind)

Price range: 1000-2000 yen per person

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mogacafe_shibuya/

4649 Taco Rice タコライス in Shinjuku City, Tokyo

The store opened in 2003 and claims to be the first “taco rice specialty store” outside of Okinawa. It offers lunch specials featuring taco rice, including classic, vegetable-loaded, and egg-topped versions. Customers can also customize their orders with additional toppings. In the evening, the spot becomes an Okinawan izakaya offering more regional specials.

Address: 8 Chome-19-1 Nishishinjuku, Shinjuku City, Tokyo 160-0023, Japan

Opening Hours: Monday – Friday: 11:30 am – 2 pm

(Hours can change depending on the day and holidays, so keep this in mind)

Price range: 1-1000 yen per person

Harmonica Quina in Musashino, Tokyo

Harmonica Quina is the go-to spot for quick and satisfying taco rice. Customers select their meal at a kiosk outside before entering the cozy restaurant. The taco rice is served quickly, and the portions are generous, allowing diners to enjoy Okinawan flavors to the fullest.

One of Quina’s unique touches is the addition of creamy avocado beneath layers of shredded lettuce, enhancing the dish’s texture. While taco rice is the star, the menu also features other Okinawan dishes.

Address: 1 Chome-1-8 Kichijoji Honcho, Musashino, Tokyo 180-0004, Japan

Opening Hours: Monday – Sunday: 11:30 am – 9 pm

(Hours can change depending on the day and holidays, so keep this in mind)

Price range: 1-1000 yen per person

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tacorice917

Veg Out in Kyoto

Located by the river in Kyoto, Veg Out Café is a peaceful spot perfect for enjoying healthy, plant-based meals. Their standout lunch dish? A delicious Taco Rice Bowl made with organically grown veggies, chili beans, salsa, and dressing served over rice. It’s a flavorful, guilt-free take on the Okinawan classic.

Address: 〒600-8133 Kyoto, Shimogyo Ward, Inaricho, 448 鴨川ビル 1F, Japan

Opening Hours: Monday: 5 pm – 8 pm

Wednesday – Sunday: 9 am – 10:30 am, 11:30 am – 5 pm

(Hours can change depending on the day and holidays, so keep this in mind)

Price range: 1000-2000 yen per person

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/vegout_kyoto/

The 9X Osaka in Osaka

This restaurant offers a diverse selection of Mexican cuisine from around the world. One dish that you have to try is their taco rice bowl. The restaurant is very stylish, with a terrace that offers a beautiful view to relax and enjoy your meal. It’s located along the Okawa River, making it a great spot for a meal with a lovely atmosphere.

Address: 〒530-0043 Osaka, Kita Ward, Tenma, 3 Chome−1−2 B1F～1F ＴＳビル, Japan

Opening Hours: Monday: 11:30 am – 7 pm

Wednesday – Sunday: 11:30 am – 7 pm

(Hours can change depending on the day and holidays, so keep this in mind)

Price range: 1000-2000 yen per person

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/the9xosaka/

When travelling to Japan, make sure to try it out! Whether you’re in Tokyo or Kansai, there are plenty of places to try this Okinawan specialty without travelling to the islands. It is a fun and tasty mix of Japanese and Mexican food. It brings people together and is a popular dish in many places. Taco rice is a must-try! So, why not satisfy your craving for a taste of Okinawa by visiting one of these great spots? Happy eating!

Featured Photo Credit: sasazawa

On a trip to Tokyo? Book your local guide to learn more about Japanese food and culture.