La Jolla, established in Hiroo in 1987, is one of Tokyo’s trailblazing Mexican restaurants—one of the first places to bring authentic Mexican flavors and atmosphere to a Japanese audience. Located on the 2nd floor of the Koyasu Building at 5-16-3 Hiroo, Shibuya-ku, it’s only about a one-minute walk from Hiroo Station (Exit 1 or 2) on the Hibiya Line.
Inside, La Jolla seats about 30-35 people, creating a cozy and inviting space that retains a warm, homey feel despite its long history. The décor and service aren’t flashy; instead, the focus is on taste, authenticity, and a friendly atmosphere where both locals and foreigners feel welcome.
The menu is extensive, featuring over 100 dishes. Signature offerings include burritos, quesadillas, enchiladas, and tacos, alongside seasonal and monthly special dishes that often use Japanese ingredients while preserving Mexican style. They are also known for their flavored margaritas and a large selection of tequilas, wines, and beers. Vegetarian options are available, with items like tofu tacos and vegetable chimichangas offered.
La Jolla operates lunchtime service from 11:30 AM to 2:00 PM on weekdays (extended to around 3:00 PM on weekends & holidays), then closes through the afternoon before reopening for dinner around 5:00 PM. Dinner usually runs until about 10:30 PM. The restaurant is closed on Tuesdays (unless a public holiday) and during the New Year holidays.
In terms of price, lunch dishes usually fall in the ¥1,000-¥2,000 range, while dinner tends to be more expensive, typically around ¥4,000-¥5,000 depending on drinks, course selections, etc.
Beyond the food, what many people appreciate about La Jolla is its longevity and consistency. It has become a “household name” in Hiroo for Mexican cuisine—familiar enough to have multiple generations who’ve dined there. Patrons often mention loving the flavor authenticity, the salsa, the margaritas, and how the place can feel like a home away from home, especially for foreign visitors missing Mexican or Southwestern U.S. food.
R H
3 weeks agoA friend recommended this Mexican restaurant in Hiroo (La Jolla Hiroo) to me! The moment I walked in, I was immediately struck by the cute, yellow-themed interior and the stylish atmosphere, which reminded me of a cafe overseas. I ordered a spinach and mushroom quesadilla, and my friend ordered a cheese burrito to share! The quesadilla was healthy yet satisfying, packed with vegetables, and the burrito was rich and melty with cheese, making it incredibly satisfying. It was fun sharing and tasting different dishes with my friend. They had a wide selection of drinks, and not only the tequila but also the frozen fruit drinks looked delicious! It's on the second floor, so it might be hard to find at first glance, but it's conveniently located just a three-minute walk from the station. Even though it was a Sunday night, it seemed to have a lot of regulars and was bustling with activity. I think this is the perfect place for a girls' night out or lunch. I'd love to go again!
Matt Eaton
a month agoVery disappointing. Maybe I ordered the wrong dish, the enchilada, but this reminded me of school dinners in the 80s. Felt like it might have cooked days/weeks/months ago. No sizzle. Nothing on the plate was fresh. Basically a TV dinner. The rice was appalling. Stuck together in big clumps. Tasted like it had been cooked in a bit of ketchup. Maybe it’s fun with drinks in the evening, but for lunch this place is a disaster.
松岡周二
a month agoIt's delicious. I don't think there's any other Mexican restaurant that can match it in terms of value for money. I lived in a town called La Jolla on the coast of San Diego for about three years. I learned there that La Jolla is pronounced La Jolla and means jewel in Spanish.
Eminonu
2 months agoThe guacamole, tortillas, frozen margaritas, etc. were all delicious.
Yu Takaishi
2 months ago