Taco Bell Japan makes comeback

US fast food brand Taco Bell is to make a comeback in Japan.

Restaurant chain operator Asrapport Dining Co has partnered with the Taco Bell brand’s parent Yum! Brands and will open the first store in Shibuya, Tokyo, on April 21.

It will be the brand’s first outlet in Japan in more than 20 years.

Taco Bell Japan will serve the staples of the US fast food menu – burritos, tacos and quesadillas, along with items unique to the Japanese market, to suit the local population: a shrimp and avocado burrito and something called ‘taco rice’.

“Taco rice will be a plate of taco meat and vegetables served on top of rice,” a spokeswoman told Japanese media.

An unspecified number of stores is planned, with a distinct layout including an open kitchen where customers can see food being prepared.

A combination meal is likely to be priced at about ¥800 ($US6.70).

Taco Bell originally entered Japan in the 1980s but its foray was short lived, its Mexican style cuisine failing to excite the Japanese palate.

Some Taco Bell outlets operate in Japan within US military bases, inaccessible to the general public.