Taco.scratch Kyoto (instagram.com/taco.scratch_kyoto) is a casual taqueria tucked away around Shimizu-Gojo, just a short walk from the Kamo River. With Kawaramachi Gojo nearby, it’s also easy to reach from both Shimizu-Gojo and Gojo stations.

Taco.scratch Kyoto opened in May 2025 as the second location of Taco.scratch, which started in Fukuchiyama. Owner Naoki Nitta first started the business as a taco food truck after experiencing tacos during an agricultural training trip to Mexico as a student. The Kyoto shop follows the style of tacos he encountered in Baja California, while also using ingredients from the Fukuchiyama area.

The tacos are made with 100% corn tortillas and come with a variety of meat, vegetable and seafood fillings. The menu also includes cocktails, mezcal and craft beer from Fukuchiyama brewery Primary Barrels. Inside, the walls are decorated with Mexican-inspired artwork painted by the owner, including a fun scene of Japanese women in kimono enjoying tacos.

Set inside an old Kyoto building, Taco.scratch brings together Mexican food, local touches and the history of the Gojo Rakuen area in a relaxed setting.