#3749

The Absolute Best Burritos in Japan: Cactus Burrito

Kawasaki Food Buritto Mexican Cuisine Beer Restaurant Drink

Cactus Burrito offers California "San Diego-style" burritos like no one else in Japan. They’re located just a few minutes’ walk from Musashi-Shinjō Station on the JR Nanbu Line in Takatsu-ku, Kawasaki.

Their shop is tiny, but their menu is impressive. In addition to the regular assortment of Mexican fare (think nachos, tostadas, and quesadillas), there’s also items such as blue cheese mashed potatoes and pancakes!

It’s their burritos, though, that I oh-so love - they deserve to be heralded and championed and made-to-be-eaten by everyone. Cactus Burrito offers two versions: one, an open, melted-cheese covered enchilada; the other, a foil-wrapped fast-food style burrito, the way it’s usually served in California. You can choose from beef, pork, chicken, seafood, bean or vegetable. For a little extra, you can get a salsa, guacamole, or re-fried bean combo. The food is slow-cooked and well worth the wait. Just make sure you bring your appetite, because the portions are immense.

Cactus Burrito also has an outstanding selection of bottled craft beers from several American breweries. They also offer cocktails and smoothies (spiked or not). For those who don’t drink alcohol, there’s a variety of soft drinks to order.

The owner and chef, Naoko, speaks English and is as friendly as her food is fantastic. When you visit – and you should – tell her Lee sent you.