los tacos azules is a taco shop started in 2011 by Marco Garcia in Monterrey, northern Mexico. Its concept revolves around tacos made with fresh tortillas from native Mexican blue corn. At that time, most people in Monterrey were not familiar with native blue corn, as northern Mexico mainly consumed mass-produced, inexpensive tortillas, and the idea of perfecting tortillas was not prevalent. This situation was similar to not focusing on cooking high-quality rice in Japan - something available but not emphasized.
Los Tacos Azules stood out by focusing on high-quality tacos with tortillas made from native blue corn. The color of these tortillas was impactful and surprising. Initially, customers were amazed, wondering if the tortillas were dyed. Even in Mexico, some people had never seen blue corn. Those who tried the tacos were impressed, finding them fluffy, chewy, and aromatic. The shop's popularity grew, and soon lines formed before opening. Founder Marco was convinced that pursuing quality leads to recognition, showing that tacos need not be cheap, junk street food but can be elevated.
Marco's dedication to tortillas and elevating tacos was influenced by his study abroad in Japan and interactions with Mexican cuisine researcher Diana Kennedy. Struck by Japan's rich food culture, quality focus, and the approach of preserving the natural taste of ingredients, Marco wondered why a similar approach couldn't be applied to Mexican cuisine.
Driven by this idea, Marco returned to Mexico, traveled around, and studied local cuisines and ingredients. Meeting Diana Kennedy, an authority on Mexican cuisine, he learned the true deliciousness of tortillas, which came from careful cooking and quality native corn. The blue tortillas made by Kennedy inspired the founding of Los Tacos Azules.
In September 2018, Los Tacos Azules opened a shop in Tokyo, marking its second phase. This was part of a long-held project to create a taco shop in Japan, with the aim of introducing delicious tacos and advancing them to the next level in Japan.
Marco Garcia
"I'm Marco, the chef and founder of Los Tacos Azules. My culinary journey started in Monterrey, Mexico, but it was in Japan where I truly discovered my passion. I was fascinated by the incredible diversity and artistry of Japanese cuisine, and I knew I wanted to bring those influences back to my own culinary heritage.
At Los Tacos Azules, I combine the bold flavors of Mexico with the unique ingredients of Japan. Think lotus root, shiitake mushrooms, and fresh seafood, all incorporated into tacos that taste authentically Mexican, yet undeniably unique. But it's not just about the food—I want to create a complete sensory experience. From the vibrant atmosphere and music to the handcrafted tableware, every detail is designed to transport you. And at the heart of it all is my belief that a truly great taco starts with a truly great tortilla. Tacos in Japan? Prepare to be surprised. Come experience Los Tacos Azules."