Zest
For many years, Zest was the only option for reasonable Tex/Mex food in the Tokyo area. Things have changed, however, with many new restaurants opening up all over the place, but Zest is still a nice place to have dinner and drinks. They recently changed their menu, going for less Mex and more Tex, so the traditional burritos are out in favor of more American style food.
There are at least 4 branches of Zest with the original still by far the most impressive. The first Zest was built in the Ikejiri Ohashi area, about halfway between that station and Sangen Jyaya station, right off the highway. That place is huge, seating at least 400 people or so. They also have really high ceilings, I guess about 15 meters (40 feet or so) which allows for a sort of a balcony seating area. They have a huge dinosaur bird of some time hanging from a giant chandelier in the center of the restaurant. If you are in the area, check out the original Zest.
There are also branches in Yokohama, Harajuku and Nishi Azabu. If you want to stay in central Tokyo, I recommend the Nishi Azabu branch. It is a little bigger than the Harajuku branch, and always less crowded. I have been there during peak times and never had to wait. There are about 15 tables and a rocking bar setup.
I guess the best thing about Zest is the drinks. They have a full bar and they feature frozen Margaritas. You can buy them as singles, but I highly recommend the half or full pitcher.
Zest is a great place to spend a memorable evening which you probably will not be able to remember the next day. Here is the info for the Nishi Azabu location.
visit:
Fall 2006 for Hawaii Lovers www.hawaiidaisuki.com