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Japanese cuisine is beloved by many, and Okinawa—famed for its island views, water activities, and cultural history—is no exception. Let our editor, who has lived in Japan and visited Okinawa multiple times, guide you to 8 must-try restaurants frequented by locals. From Okinawan specialties, izakayas, sashimi, robatayaki, wagyu, grilled fish, and hand-drip coffee, to nostalgic Showa-style bread—say goodbye to touristy crowds and hidden disappointments. Foodies, you don’t want to miss these spots!

Japanese Cuisine – Okinawa Food Recommendations

Okinawa Sakaba HAISAI Kenchomae Kumoji
(沖縄酒場ハイサイ 県庁前久茂地店)

What’s a trip to Japan without a genuine izakaya experience? In Okinawa, you’ll find menu items rarely seen in Tokyo, Kyoto, or Osaka. Conveniently located near the Okinawa Monorail, HAISAI offers local favorites like habu snake sake, sea grapes, mozuku seaweed, and the ever-popular goya champuru (stir-fried bitter melon with luncheon meat, bean sprouts, and egg). Okinawan-grown bitter melon is sweeter than Taiwan’s, making this a beloved comfort-food dish among locals.

• Address (JP): 2-1-1 Kumoji, Naha City, Okinawa Prefecture, Japan
• Access: About a 2-minute walk from Kenchomae Station on the Okinawa Urban Monorail

Yakino Sakana-jima – Grilled Fish & Sushi Specialty
(焼乃魚島 焼き魚とお鮨専門店)

If you’re looking for a high-quality meal with a cozy ambiance, impeccable service, premium seafood, and fair prices, head to Yakino Sakana-jima. Sitting at the counter, you can watch expert chefs grill various fresh fish over charcoal—what they call “genshi-yaki” (原始燒), distinct from the robatayaki (ろばた焼き) style typically seen in Japan or Taiwan. The fish is skewered upright on large bamboo sticks and roasted to seal in moisture and flavor. A personalized welcome note bearing your name adds the perfect finishing touch to this unforgettable dining experience.

• Address (JP): 2-16-3 Kumoji, Naha City, Okinawa Prefecture, Japan
• Access: About a 6-minute walk from Miebashi Station on the Okinawa Urban Monorail

Ikchokusen – Horumon Yakiniku Nago Honten
(焼肉ホルモン一直線 名護本店)

Okinawa abounds with yakiniku (BBQ) restaurants, but Ikchokusen – Horumon Yakiniku is a lesser-known gem locals are reluctant to share. A small space with only a few seats, it exudes a traditional Japanese vibe—focusing primarily on organ meats. The friendly owner embodies Okinawan hospitality, ensuring every diner is satisfied. It’s nearly always full, so be sure to reserve in advance.

• Address (JP): Left-side storefront, 1-11-15 Daiko, Nago City, Okinawa Prefecture, Japan
• Access: Take bus #77, #78, or #120 to Nagojo Iriguchi (名護城入口) stop; walk about 2 minutes

Asahiya – Agu Pork Shabu-Shabu & Gyoza
(アグーしゃぶしゃぶ ㇳ 餃子 アサヒ屋)

The Japanese love for gyoza (potstickers) is well known, and you’ll often find them crispier than Taiwanese guotie. Asahiya, located next door to Ikchokusen, specializes in gyoza and offers Agu pork for shabu-shabu. Known for its tender, sweet flavor, this local Okinawan pork is best after a quick dip in the simmering broth, then complemented by a variety of housemade side dishes. Perfect for replenishing energy after a day’s adventures!

• Address (JP): Right-side storefront, 1-11-15 Daiko, Nago City, Okinawa Prefecture, Japan
• Access: Take bus #77, #78, or #120 to Nagojo Iriguchi (名護城入口) stop; walk about 2 minutes

Inno Coffee Shop

No matter where you travel in Japan, there’s always a unique hand-drip coffee spot—and in Okinawa, Inno Coffee Shop is the place to go. Tucked away in a small alley near the Nago market, the friendly yet precise owner pours each cup with care, unveiling a deep, fragrant aroma. The menu even includes espresso or Americano enhanced with shikuwasa (an Okinawan citrus), offering a refreshingly tangy twist you won’t find elsewhere.

• Address (JP): Left-side storefront, 1-5-17 Gusuku, Nago City, Okinawa Prefecture, Japan
• Access: Take bus #111 or the OAS/RSL Okinawa Airport Shuttle Bus to Nago City Hall-mae stop; walk about 14 minutes

NATSUME TORICO（なつめとりこ）

Coffee pairs perfectly with fresh-baked bread, leading the same owner to open this Showa-style bakery next to Inno Coffee Shop. You’ll find tempting options like cinnamon rolls, melon pans, biscuits, and more in a cozy, nostalgic setting. When it’s time to order, the smiling shopkeeper slides open the screen door to pack your bread—an endearingly old-fashioned practice that leaves a lasting memory.

• Address (JP): Right-side storefront, 1-5-17 Gusuku, Nago City, Okinawa Prefecture, Japan
• Access: Take bus #111 or the OAS/RSL Okinawa Airport Shuttle Bus to Nago City Hall-mae stop; walk about 14 minutes

5910 sa-ta-café（5910 sa-ta-café / さ〜た〜家製糖工場）

Who would’ve guessed a stylish café fit for Tokyo’s chic neighborhoods could be found along a quiet country road in Okinawa? Near Kouri Island, famed for its pristine beaches and snorkeling, an established sugar manufacturer runs this quaint café beside its sugar factory, offering house-made black sugar shaved ice, umeshu (plum wine), plus Okinawa soba, rice bowls, and an array of quality souvenirs. Relax at the ocean-view seats, enjoying a rare mix of sea breezes and sweet treats.

• Address (JP): 2362-3 Kouri, Nakijin Village, Okinawa Prefecture, Japan
• Access: Take the Yanbaru Express (YKB4T) to Tokai Beach / Heart Rock stop; walk about 1 minute

Island Ingredients & Charcoal Yakitori Sajikagen
(島の素材と炭火燒鳥さじかげん)

No Japan trip is complete without a hearty yakitori meal! This authentic eatery highlights island-sourced ingredients, with classic izakaya favorites plus Okinawan staples like stir-fried noodles, goya champuru, and homemade meatballs. The meatball platter lets you sample five unique seasonings; dip them in a fresh egg yolk for extra richness.

• Address (JP): 2-8-15 Gusuku, Nago City, Okinawa Prefecture, Japan
• Access: Take bus #111 or the OAS/RSL Okinawa Airport Shuttle Bus to Nago City Hall-mae stop; walk about 14 minutes

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