The Best Restaurants on Okinawa Island, Japan

Distinct from the rest of Japan, Okinawa has its own delectable cuisine
Distinct from the rest of Japan, Okinawa has its own delectable cuisine | © Mr. Jinmon Kitao
Ashley Owen

Japan’s southernmost prefecture of Okinawa is a subtropical paradise of sugar-soft beaches and cobalt waters, with its own distinctive culture and cuisine. Here are some of the best restaurants at which to enjoy the island’s unique dishes and local ingredients.

Thanks to its complex history and remote location away from the mainland, Okinawan cuisine differs quite significantly from the rest of Japan. Once an independent state known as the Ryukyu Kingdom, Okinawa’s food culture has been heavily influenced by China, Korea and other Southeast Asian countries, as well as more recently by the USA. The use of local seasonal ingredients such as goya (bitter melon), mozuku (a type of seaweed), beni-imo (purple sweet potato) and umibudo(sea grapes) is popular, while dishes such as taco rice, champuru stir-fry, and Okinawa soba noodles can be found in almost every restaurant. Here are Culture Trip’s top recommendations for where to sample the unique tastes of this beautiful prefecture.

speech icon man in bubble

Destinations Unlocked:

Let our travel expert Stefano help you find your perfect Culture trip

Looking for an expert's perspective?

Uncover my top 3 recommended places from each continent on the map.
speech icon man in bubble
left arrow trip map

CentralAmerica

GORGEOUS GUATEMALA

Gorgeous Guatemala

5 days . Mini
speech icon man in bubble

1. Guatemala

An express adventure for those with limited time off. Prepare yourself incredible experiences. You will hike a volcano, visit mayan temples and witness a ceremony and take in beautiful colonial Antigua.

Next

right arrow next slide
left arrow trip map

CentralAmerica

BEACHY BELIZE

Beachy Belize

5 days . Mini
speech icon man in bubble

2. Belize

A quick trip not too far away for those seeking a relaxing mini break. You will have plenty of free time to relax but also some awesome activities to experience the rainforest and the caribbean sea.
left arrow previous slide

Next

right arrow next slide
left arrow trip map

CentralAmerica

COLONIAL MEXICO

Colonial Mexico

5 days . Mini
speech icon man in bubble

3. Mexico

An exciting mini trip exploring the lesser known colonial towns of central Mexico. This is hte perfect trip for someone with limited time off and still wants to turn on explorer mode and do something different.
left arrow previous slide

Back to Map

left arrow trip map

SouthAmerica

ADVENTUROUS ECUADOR

Adventurous Ecuador

8 days . Epic
speech icon man in bubble

1. Ecuador

A remarkable 8 days adventure through the Andes and the Amazon rainforest. The best choice for adventure seekers wishing to visit the 2 most iconic areas of South America, in only 1 week and no flights.

Next

right arrow next slide
left arrow trip map

SouthAmerica

ANCIENT PERU

Ancient Peru

9 days . Epic
speech icon man in bubble

2. Peru

An alternative itinerary to classic Peru, from Cusco to Arequipa. This itinerary is great combination of highlights Cusco and Machu Picchu with the lesser known Arequipa and Colca Canyon.
left arrow previous slide

Back to Map

left arrow trip map

Europe

SEDUCTIVE SOUTHERN ITALY

Seductive Southern Italy

10 days . Epic
speech icon man in bubble

1. Italy

The ultimate Italian experience from the vibrant streets of Naples to the breathtaking sceneries of the Amalfi Coast followed by Matera and down to Puglia with its golden beaches, intense flavours and fascinating destinations.

Next

right arrow next slide
left arrow trip map

Europe

EDINBURGH AND THE SCOTTISH HIGHLANDS BY TRAIN

Edinburgh And The Scottish Highlands By Train

7 days . Culture
speech icon man in bubble

2. Scotland

Embark on this great adventure starting from London all the way to Scotland with a true Scottish experience made of breathtaking sceneries, whisky tasting and ..lots of fun! Ideal for train lovers and explorers.
left arrow previous slide

Next

right arrow next slide
left arrow trip map

Europe

COMPLETE PORTUGAL BY TRAIN

Complete Portugal By Train

8 days . Culture
speech icon man in bubble

3. Portugal

A wonderful train journey around Portugal, from the romantic city of Porto to the Douro Valley, to the beautiful Aveiro all the way to Lisbon and Sintra. The perfect trip to train, culinary and culture lovers.
left arrow previous slide

Back to Map

left arrow trip map

Asia

SOULFUL SOUTH KOREA

Soulful South Korea

10 days . Epic
speech icon man in bubble

1. South Korea

Discover incredible temples, mountains and modern cities on this 10 day adventure. This trip is perfect for those seeking immersion in the cuisine, culture and natural wonders of South Korea.

Next

right arrow next slide
left arrow trip map

Asia

THAILAND, CAMBODIA & VIETNAM

Thailand, Cambodia & Vietnam

11 days . Epic
speech icon man in bubble

2. Thailand

From Bankgok to Angkor Wat to Ho Chi Minh City and everything in between - adventure through the heart of South-East Asia. Taste the delights, see history brought to life and unwind on a Mekong River cruise.
left arrow previous slide

Next

right arrow next slide
left arrow trip map

Asia

SECRETS OF SRI LANKA BY TRAIN

Secrets Of Sri Lanka By Train

10 days . Culture
speech icon man in bubble

3. Sri Lanka

A fantastic adventure that showcases Sri Lanka's fantastic landscapes, wildlife and flavours. With 3 epic rail journeys, 3 UNESCO heritage sites and time to relax, this trip has loads to offer at a great price
left arrow previous slide

Back to Map

left arrow trip map

Africa

EPIC MOROCCO

Epic Morocco

11 days . Epic
speech icon man in bubble

1. Morocco

An epic journey across Morocco: from Casablanca to Marrakech, through the blue city of Chefchaouen to the wonders of the desert and deep to the High Atlas Mountains - this trip has it all! Ideal for true explorers!

Next

right arrow next slide
left arrow trip map

Africa

ULTIMATE EGYPT

Ultimate Egypt

9 days . Epic
speech icon man in bubble

2. Egypt

From Cairo to Aswan, this trip brings the land of the pharaohs to life. You'll visit the Pyramids, Valley of the Kings and Luxor Temple and cruise down the Nile in style. This is the perfect way to explore Egypt.
left arrow previous slide

Next

right arrow next slide
left arrow trip map

Africa

IMMERSIVE KENYA

Immersive Kenya

8 days . Epic
speech icon man in bubble

3. Kenya

An immersive blend of culture and wildlife for first time travelers to Africa. Learn about Nairobi, sample local coffee in the Aberdares and finish up with a fantastic safari stay in the Masai Mara.
left arrow previous slide

Back to Map

Enjoy healthy local vegan cuisine at Ukishima Garden

Dine like royalty at Ryukyu Cuisine Mie

Restaurant, Japanese

This high-end restaurant perfectly replicates the atmosphere of old Okinawa, bringing the Ryukyu Kingdom’s culture to life through traditional design, tableware and cuisine. Located in an unassuming backstreet in the heart of the island’s capital Naha, it serves authentic multi-course Ryukyu meals reminiscent of the feasts of old. Each dish is lovingly prepared and exquisitely presented, the end result being as much a work of art as a meal. Diners can enjoy a multitude of small dishes made using local ingredients and served on beautiful classic lacquerware, all in a refined environment full of character and charm. It’s a little on the pricey side, but worth every yen. Reservations are recommended.

Taco Rice Café Kijimuna

Restaurant, Japanese, American

One of Okinawa’s most well known dishes is taco rice, thought to have arisen as a result of the post-World War II American presence on the island. It consists of your typical taco ingredients, such as ground beef, cheese, salsa and salad, served over white rice. Countless restaurants here offer it, but one of the most popular is the colourful and cheerful Taco Rice Café Kijimuna in Chatan. As well as standard taco rice, they also offer omutaco, which is taco rice with a fluffy omelette on top. A variety of additional toppings are available for both versions, including avocado, cheese, bacon and jalapeños, all for a reasonable price.

Enjoy healthy local vegan cuisine at Ukishima Garden

Restaurant, Japanese, Vegan

Ukishima Garden
Courtesy of Ukishima Garden

Plant-based travellers and those on a health kick will be delighted with this elegant, 100-percent-vegan restaurant just off Naha’s famous Kokusai Dori (International Street). The menu is bursting with local, organic ingredients, including fresh Okinawan tofu, millet from Hateruma island and rice from Iriomote island. These are used to make Okinawan dishes like taco rice, as well as Western-style meals such as curry and burgers. Desserts include sugar-free soft-serve ice cream and regularly rotating ‘guilt-free’ cakes, while local beers and natural wines are also on offer if you fancy a little indulgence on the side.

Slurp Okinawa soba at Shuri Soba

Restaurant, Japanese

Okinawa soba is another local speciality, which differs from mainland Japanese soba in that the noodles are made from wheat rather than buckwheat flour. This actually makes them more similar to udon noodles. Firm and chewy, they are generally served in a hot broth made with pork, dried fish flakes and konbu seaweed. The dish comes loaded with toppings like slow-cooked pork, fishcakes, pickled ginger and green onions. One of the best places to enjoy the dish is at the ever-popular Shuri Soba, close to Shuri Castle, which boasts quick service, reasonable prices and delicious homemade noodles. Get a side order of jushi rice to try another local treat.

Get a slice of Italy at Bacar

Restaurant, Italian

For something completely different, head to this Italian pizzeria in Naha city. It specialises in just two styles of pizza – Margherita and Marinara – which has allowed it to hone its recipes and cooking method to absolute perfection. Only the finest ingredients are used, and each pizza is made to order in front of diners in a giant, fiery kiln. They are carefully watched over by the chef, who trained in Italy, and served piping hot. Crisp but chewy, with a simplicity that allows the ingredients to speak for themselves, this may just be the best pizza outside of Italy.

Grab some authentic Mexican cuisine at Esparza’s Tacos and Coffee

Restaurant, Mexican

Esparza’s
© Mr. Jinmon Kitao

If taco rice leaves you craving some actual tacos, Esparza’s is the place to go. Just north of American Village and its iconic Ferris wheel, this friendly and relaxed Mexican restaurant has a great selection of tacos and enchiladas, plus a decent range of side dishes. In addition to meat and fish options, Esparza’s has really good vegetarian and vegan options, including beans, tofu, falafel and plant-based cheese. These all come at affordable prices, to be enjoyed with either a beer or coffee. For dessert, don’t miss the (also vegan-friendly) churros with chocolate sauce and cinnamon nachos – heaven on a plate!

Get drinks and dessert at Rockers Café

Bar, Restaurant, Japanese, American, British, Italian

As the name implies, as well as a restaurant, Rockers Café doubles as a bar and music venue. Don’t think this makes the food an afterthought though. Located right on the seafront in the lively American Village, it offers a mix of Japanese and Western-style food like burritos, locally caught fish with chips, lasagne with homemade bread, and the original curry plate with seasonal vegetables. Dessert options include a rich and moist rum and raisin cake and cookies to take home. Of course, there’s also an extensive alcohol menu featuring beer, wine and cocktails. If the weather’s nice, grab a seat on the terrace for a gorgeous ocean view.

Indulge your carnivorous side at Kou

Restaurant, Japanese

This restaurant near Asahibashi station is a must-visit for meat lovers who want to sample a range of Okinawan specialities. Choose from rich and marbled Agu pork, Kume Island chicken and Okinawan beef to have as part of a shabu-shabu hotpot that you cook yourself at your table. Prices can be high, but the ingredients are top quality. Among the appetisers available are jimami tofu, which is made from peanuts rather than soybeans, and umibudo (sea grapes). These strands, covered with tiny bubbles, are known as ‘green caviar’, and pop in your mouth as you eat them to release a unique salty taste.

culture trip left arrow
 culture trip brand logo

Volcanic Iceland Epic Trip

meet our Local Insider

Hanna

women sitting on iceberg

HOW LONG HAVE YOU BEEN A GUIDE?

2 years.

WHAT DO YOU LOVE ABOUT YOUR JOB?

It's the personal contact, the personal experiences. I love meeting people from all over the world... I really like getting to know everyone and feeling like I'm traveling with a group of friends.

WHAT DESTINATION IS ON YOUR TRAVEL BUCKET-LIST?

I have so many places on my list, but I would really lobe to go to Africa. I consider myself an “adventure girl” and Africa feels like the ULTIMATE adventure!

culture trip logo letter c
group posing for picture on iceberg
group posing for picture on iceberg

Every CULTURE TRIP Small-group adventure is led by a Local Insider just like Hanna.

map of volcanic iceland trip destination points
culture trip brand logo
culture trip right arrow
landscape with balloons floating in the air

KEEN TO EXPLORE THE WORLD?

Connect with like-minded people on our premium trips curated by local insiders and with care for the world

Since you are here, we would like to share our vision for the future of travel - and the direction Culture Trip is moving in.

Culture Trip launched in 2011 with a simple yet passionate mission: to inspire people to go beyond their boundaries and experience what makes a place, its people and its culture special and meaningful — and this is still in our DNA today. We are proud that, for more than a decade, millions like you have trusted our award-winning recommendations by people who deeply understand what makes certain places and communities so special.

Increasingly we believe the world needs more meaningful, real-life connections between curious travellers keen to explore the world in a more responsible way. That is why we have intensively curated a collection of premium small-group trips as an invitation to meet and connect with new, like-minded people for once-in-a-lifetime experiences in three categories: Culture Trips, Rail Trips and Private Trips. Our Trips are suitable for both solo travelers, couples and friends who want to explore the world together.

Culture Trips are deeply immersive 5 to 16 days itineraries, that combine authentic local experiences, exciting activities and 4-5* accommodation to look forward to at the end of each day. Our Rail Trips are our most planet-friendly itineraries that invite you to take the scenic route, relax whilst getting under the skin of a destination. Our Private Trips are fully tailored itineraries, curated by our Travel Experts specifically for you, your friends or your family.

We know that many of you worry about the environmental impact of travel and are looking for ways of expanding horizons in ways that do minimal harm - and may even bring benefits. We are committed to go as far as possible in curating our trips with care for the planet. That is why all of our trips are flightless in destination, fully carbon offset - and we have ambitious plans to be net zero in the very near future.

X

Holiday Sale Offers on Our Trips

Incredible Savings

Edit article