Thanks to the American military occupation, tacos have become a staple in Okinawa. One of the best places to try them is Charlie’s Tacos, on the second floor of a building on Kokusai-dori in Naha. Follow the flight of stairs up when you see the big sign with the name in English. The ambiance is reminiscent of a Mexican diner in the US, maybe a throwback to the 1956 founding of the restaurant.
Charlie’s Tacos (Photo credit: ekkun)
However, there are shisa lions and other Okinawan details, and the tacos are served with rice. Because they are small, you might want to order several from the menu, which includes ones like chicken, beef, and tuna. Other menu items at Charlie’s Tacos include enchiladas, chili, pasta, soup, hamburgers and hotdogs, and steak sandwiches, in sets which include a drink or a la carte.
charlie’s taco (Photo credit: lazy fri13th)
You order at a cash register and get your own silverware and water from a counter on the side. However, the prices are reasonable and the food is delicious, appropriate for anyone craving something other than Japanese food. They do have a small beer menu serving Orion and Corona plus some Japanese beer. Save some room for the desserts. The chocolate ice cream itself is worth a visit to Charlie’s Tacos.
Okinawa Charlies Tacos Menu
Charlie’s is open from 10 am to 9 pm, Friday through Wednesday. Closed Thursdays. Address is 1-3-4 Matsuo, Naha, Okinawa Prefecture 900-0014, Japan
