Mary in Vancity

Miso Taco has found a new home on Cambie Street, taking over the space that was once Black Walnut. I still remember grabbing brunch at Black Walnut early this spring, but this new chapter brings a vibrant fusion of Mexican and Japanese flavors that you might not want to miss.

Miso Taco’s menu is full of surprises, blending familiar elements from both Mexican and Japanese cuisines. Picture tucking into a taco filled with crispy fried cod topped with a miso dressing, or chicken karaage drizzled in tonkotsu sauce. For something extra unique, they even have burrito-style wraps stuffed with ramen noodles! It’s a delightful mashup that keeps your taste buds guessing.

One of the dishes that really grabbed our attention was the Kimchi Fries. These aren’t your average fries. Loaded with refried beans, shredded cheese, kimchi, red onions, and cilantro, they’re a flavour bomb on a plate. We decided to kick it up a notch and added birria to ours, but even with four of us, we couldn’t finish them. So, unless you’re coming with a serious appetite, I recommend sharing! The portion size is a bit of a challenge, but in the best way possible.

Next up was the Birria-dilla, and wow, it was a hit. Generous portions of birria and melted cheese came together in a perfectly toasted tortilla, served with a rich dipping consome. And because I was feeling adventurous, I opted for the instant ramen add-on—because, why not? It brought an extra layer of whimsy and fun to the dish, staying true to the restaurant’s overall vibe.

One thing that really stood out to me was how homemade and fresh all the sauces tasted. I particularly loved the salsa verde—it was tangy, flavourful, and paired beautifully with everything we tried.

The atmosphere at Miso Taco is just as lively as its food. Anime plays on the screens in the background, and there’s even an old-school Street Fighter arcade game to bring out your inner child. Chef Diego, who brings experience from both fine dining and food trucks, says if he had to describe the concept of Miso Taco in one word, it would be “fun.” And that’s exactly what it is. It’s a place where you can enjoy unique and delicious dishes, sip on some great drinks, and just have fun with friends.