Tepito

Tokyo’s Mexican food scene is known for bold, in-your-face flavors and bright colours. But beyond the fiery heat and tequila cocktails, there’s plenty of room for warming, homely comfort food. That’s exactly what Tepito brings to the table — hearty Mexican food with a hug.

Price range

Since Tepito is only open in the evenings, your real choice is whether to order á la carte or try a course. There are a few to choose from, aimed at beginners to Mexican cuisine. The courses include an appetizer, main, side, and dessert, as well as a drink, and are reasonably priced, with the “A Course” starting at ¥5,280.

If going á la carte, the small appetizer plates will set you back around ¥1,000 each, and are usually the right size for one diner. After that, a main will be around the ¥1,500 mark, with dessert rounding out the bill at ¥500. So that’s ¥3,000 before drinks for each visitor. Depending on whether you’re fine with soft drinks or are a top-shelf tequila soul, dinner can tally up to ¥4,000 to ¥5,000 pretty comfortably.

Food

Tepito’s menu is a tribute to authenticity and the breadth of Mexican cuisine. Simplicity is the real talent on display, starting from the appetizers. Popular nibbles like guac and nachos are made homestyle, with basic seasonings. There’s also plenty of less familiar tapas on the menu, such as the sopes and marinated seafood.

The mains also offer plenty of choice — with the traditional fare of tacos and burritos served casually, but full of flavor. All of them come topped with a fresh pico de gallo or a red onion pickle. More adventurous eaters can nibble on their nopales — a cactus frond prepared like a steak, with a satisfying vegetal taste. And don’t miss their soups either, with the chicken pozole and mechado on the menu. These two basic and hearty soups are the backbone of regular Mexican winter households, and Tepito doesn’t skimp on bringing that cozy feeling to you.

Drinks

Tepito’s other claim to fame is one of the most extensive tequila collections in Japan. You can sample over 100 different types at the restaurant, from new blancos all the way to vintage reposados. They’re sold by the glass, so you can try anything that catches your eye without breaking the bank. Alternatively, if you’re a tequila trainee, there are course options that take you through specific types or brands.

If that’s not your thing, there’s plenty more alcohol to go around, including Mexican beers like Tecate and Corona. Not a drinker? You can also try some refreshing hibiscus juice, or a creamy glass of horchata.

Ambience

Keep an eye out when you’re on your way to Tepito, because you could easily mistake it for another house. The frontage is simple, and as you’re led into the main dining area, feels like the converted home it once was. The decor is bright and cheery, with Mexican memorabilia dotting the walls and stored in small cupboards around the room. The place is always popular, and the pleasant buzz of conversation cuts through the music. Coming to Tepito feels like heading home for a family dinner: warm, welcoming, and a place to relax.

Making a reservation

With the limited opening hours and how popular Tepito is, reservations are a must. You can either reserve by phone, or by using the website form (with 3 days’ notice.)

Tepito is good for:

Anyone who loves the flavor profile of Mexican cuisine, but also loves the charm and warmth of home cooking. Whether you’re searching for something new to try, or just need something comforting, Tepito takes you to Mexico and takes you home.

by Shyam Bhardwa