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Tokyo sure has been stepping up its Mexican restaurant game recently, with authentic taquerías and traditional family-style eateries alike doing a booming trade all across the capital. Seven local heavy-hitters can now add a serious badge of honour to their resumes: official recognition by the Mexican government.
The ‘Sello M’ certification, awarded by Mexico’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs in collaboration with the Academia Mexicana de Gastronomía, spotlights food businesses outside of Mexico that genuinely represent Mexican gastronomy and protect cultural identity.
In order to receive the Sello M, a restaurant, food truck or catering service must demonstrate that it serves authentic Mexican recipes, uses traditional ingredients and techniques, employs qualified chefs with deep knowledge or experience in Mexican cuisine and complies with local hygiene and safety standards.
Japan’s first-ever batch of Sello M recipients were announced at the Mexican Embassy in Japan on September 10, and the Tokyo eateries to make the cut were Taquito in Shin-Koiwa, New Classic Tortilla Club in Yoyogi-Uehara, Octa in Numabukuro, Yotsuya’s Salsa Cabana, Peltre y Barro in Daita, Nakano’s Hobo Tacos and – our long-time favourite – Tepito in Shimokitazawa, where the many highlights include fish tacos, mixed enchiladas and a bittersweet chicken mole this writer literally dreams about regularly.
In addition, Sand’s Diner in Tsudanuma, Chiba also received a Sello M, so the Tokyo area now boasts an impressive eight certifiably authentic Mexican joints. Not bad for a city that had a reputation as a taco wasteland only a decade and change ago.
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