Okinawa is known for its tropical climate, beaches and islands. However, like the rest of Japan, Okinawa is also home to numerous delicious restaurants. When there’s so much good food in town and so little holiday time, it’s important to narrow down your list so that you can eat the BEST food there is – and I’m here to help.
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Misomeshiya Marutama
Photo credit: Misomeshiya Marutama
If you have a big appetite in the morning, the traditional Japanese breakfasts at Misomeshiya Marutama would be perfect for you. The beautiful breakfast sets are called Asa Misomeshi and include grilled salmon with miso sauce (JPY860), served with rice, miso soup and small dishes. Their ancient miso recipe dates back some 160 years.
Open 7:30am–10pm, Monday–Wednesday and Friday–Saturday. Open 7:30am–2pm on Thursday. Closed on Sunday.
1/F, 2-4-3 Izumizaki, Naha-shi, Okinawa, +81 98 831 7656
Yume Sushi
Photo credit: Yume Sushi
Yume Sushi is a popular spot amongst locals and it’s not hard to see why. From fresh sea urchin and Pacific bluefin tuna sashimi, to a generously portioned eel bento (JPY 3,300), to carefully crafted sushi pieces, this restaurant is perfect if you’re looking for a great sushi meal.
Open 11:30am–2:30pm for lunch, 5–11pm for dinner. Closed for lunch on Sundays.
1/F, Sono Building, 3-9-10 Kumoji, Naha-shi, Okinawa, +81 98 987 7610
Gochi
Photo credit: バシタカ
There to cure your noodle cravings, Gochi is a small ramen and tsukemen restaurant favoured by locals. The menu is handwritten in Japanese, so make sure you brush up on your kanji before you visit!
Open 11:30am–9pm. Closed on Thursdays.
5-10-15 Goya, Okinawa, +81 98 989 8793
Ryukyu no Ushi
Photo credit: Ryukyu no Ushi
Ryukyu no Ushi is all about beef that will make you drool. This Japanese-style barbecue restaurant serves Wagyu that literally melts in the mouth. If you’re looking to splurge, try their Finest Okinawa Wagyu Beef Set (JPY9,200). Be prepared to wait! No bookings.
Locations:
3/F, 3-2-3 Makishi, Naha-shi, Okinawa, +81 98 987 6150. Open 5–11:30pm.
1/F, 909-2 Maeganeku, Onna-son, Okinawa, +81 98 965 2233. Open 11am–4:30pm, 5–11:30pm.
2/F, 51-1 Mihama, Chatan-cho, Nakagami-gun, Okinawa, +81 98 989 3405. Open 5–11:30pm.
Okashigoten Yomitami Honten
Photo credit: Okashigoten Yomitami Honten
If you haven’t yet tried this Instagram-famous purple yam dessert, here’s your chance! Okashigoten Yomitami Honten uses ingredients from Okinawa to create these vibrant purple yam tarts. You can also watch the tarts being made at the main shop in Kamiya.
Various branches around Okinawa
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