Feeling hungry? Glad you stopped by because I have the best recommendations on what to eat in Okinawa.
I had the pleasure of living in Okinawa prefecture for three years and learned a few things about Okinawan ingredients, traditional dishes, and Okinawan dietary habits. The island’s food is very unique and very different from what you will find on mainland Japan.
If it’s your first time in Okinawa, we are gonna have so much fun eating in this part of Japan! So buckle up pork chop because we’re about to try a lot of pork dishes, local food, and traditional food!
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- The Ultimate Okinawa Travel Guide
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- Where To Stay in Okinawa | Best Hotels & Areas
A Little Bit About Okinawa Japan
The Kanji for Okinawa means “Rope in the Open Sea.” It is a chain of many different islands in the East China Sea and Pacific Ocean. Also called the Ryukyu Islands, Okinawa has a rich history and unique culture of its own.
The days of the Ryukyu Kingdom were from 1429 to 1879. Their culture consisted of a mix of three main Asian cultures: Mongolian, Ainu, and Malayan.
Fun fact about Okinawa… The average life expectancy is about 80 years old for men and about 87 years old for women.
The Essence of Okinawan Cuisine
Okinawan Culture and Cuisine
Okinawan cuisine is a delightful reflection of the island’s rich history, geographical location, and diverse cultural influences. Nestled in Japan’s southernmost prefecture, Okinawa’s culinary traditions are shaped by the legacy of the Ryukyu Kingdom, which thrived on trade with China, Southeast Asia, and Japan.
This unique historical background has led to a cuisine that blends elements from these regions, resulting in flavors and dishes that are distinctly Okinawan. The Okinawa diet incorporates ingredients not commonly found in mainland Japanese cuisine.
For instance, goya (bitter melon) and sea grapes (umibudo) are staples in many local dishes, adding a unique twist to the flavors. Additionally, the American military presence post-World War II has left a lasting influence, evident in fusion dishes like taco rice, which seamlessly combines Japanese and American culinary elements.
Health Benefits of Traditional Okinawan Diet
The traditional Okinawan cuisine is renowned for its health benefits, contributing to the island’s reputation for longevity and wellness. This diet is characterized by its low-calorie and high-nutrient content
It has a strong emphasis on vegetables, legumes, and seaweed. Another key component of the Okinawan diet is the limited intake of meat, with a preference for lean protein sources such as tofu and fish.
Map of Where To Eat in Okinawa
Must-Try Okinawan Dishes
1. Okinawa Soba
A cornerstone of Okinawan cuisine, Okinawa soba is a must-try for any visitor to the island. Japanese mainland soba noodles are made with buckwheat flour. Okinawa soba noodles are made from wheat flour. This gives them a chewy and robust texture.
The broth is rich and savory and made from pork or bonito flakes.
Where To Eat Okinawan Soba
- Hana Hana Shoten in Naha – One of the most popular Okinawa Soba restaurants on the island! Try their lemon and seaweed versions.
- Hamaya Soba in Chatan – Many famous Japanese celebrities have been here so you know it’s good!
- Jaagaru Soba in Chatan – If you’re looking for noods with a view… This is it!
2. Soki Soba
Soki soba is a popular variation that includes tender pork ribs simmered to perfection. Garnished with red ginger, green onions, and fish cake, this dish offers a comforting and flavorful experience that encapsulates the essence of Okinawan comfort food.
Where To Eat Soki Soba
- Waki Gawa Kitchen in Chibana – This is a classic hole-in-the-wall you can’t go wrong with. They have friendly service, a great atmosphere, and super tasty noodle dishes.
3. Rafute (Juicy Pork Belly)
Rafute is braised pork slow-cooked in awamori (Okinawan rice alcohol). It is a sweet and savory dish inspired by Chinese cuisine.
Where To Eat Rafute
- Waryu Kitchen Tentaka in Naha
- Peaceful Kumoji in Naha
- Hanafuu in Kaiho
4. Taco Rice
You can see a lot of American influence in this Japanese fusion Tex-Mex dish. American culture made this a famous dish in the 1960s to cater to American tastes. this dish features seasoned ground beef served over a bed of white rice, topped with lettuce, tomatoes, cheese, and a generous dollop of salsa.
Where To Eat Taco Rice
- Amigo Tacos in Naha – The shop may be small, but their sauce is bomb, and the service is excellent!
- Ruler’s Taco Rice Ginowan – A fun spin on an Okinawan favorite. Try their traditional and taco rice of the month served over a warm bed of rice.
- The Taco Rice House in Naha – This is a small joint with amazing taco rice that is cheap and delicious.
5. Goya Champuru/Goya Chanpuru
First, goya champuru culture is a big deal! This is a staple food and an Okinawan stir-fry. High in B vitamins, this common dish is made with goya (bitter melon).
The goya is stir-fried with tofu, pork belly, and eggs. If you’re new to goya, I promise this dish is definitely an adventure and served as a main meal.
Where To Eat Goya Champuru
- Dondottotto Izakaya – This is a traditional Okinawan restaurant where the chef and staff are awesome. Stop by for some drinks too.
6. Sea Grapes (Umibudo)
Sea grapes are a type of seaweed that have a delicate, bead-like texture and fresh, oceanic flavor. Umibudo is typically enjoyed raw and served as an appetizer or side dish.
The slightly salty, crisp texture provides a refreshing contrast to the richer flavors of Okinawan cuisine. They are a popular choice for those looking to experience the health benefits of traditional Okinawan food.
7. Ishigaki Beef
For meat lovers, Ishigaki beef is a culinary highlight.
Often compared to Kobe beef, Ishigaki beef is so soft and tender it melts in your mouth. The care and precision involved in raising these cattle result in a luxurious dining experience that exemplifies the high standards of Okinawan culinary craftsmanship.
Unfortunately, you won’t find any good Ishigaki beef places on the main island so you’re going to have to travel to the Yaeyama Islands to sample it. Luckily, it’s only an hour plane ride away!
Where To Eat Ishigaki Beef
- Zelkova on Ishigaki Island – They serve the beef Japanese barbecue-style here.
- Ishigaki Beef MARU – The meat here is also a Japanese barbecue-style.
- Yamburger Ishigaki – The hamburgers are made with Ishigaki beef. They’ll be the best you’ve ever eaten!
8. Beni Imo (Purple Sweet Potato)
Did you know purple potatoes have a low sugar content compared to white potatoes?
This purple potato is made into a tart dessert you can find anywhere. I recommend going to a bakery and picking some up for the most deliciously made ones.
Where To Eat Beni Imo
- Patisserie Joie Joie 326 in Yomitan – I stopped by here a little more than I like to admit because the desserts and Beni Imo tarts are just THAT good.
- Almont Hotel Naha Oromachi – If you’re looking for a pick me up, try this hotel’s cafe in Naha City.
- Doutor Coffe at Naha Airport – If you didn’t get a chance to try this popular dish, come here to bring some for takeaway.
9. Sata Andagi (Okinawan donuts)
This Okinawa food is described as crunchy, deep-fried cake balls. The donuts are made with local ingredients like black sugar or molasses.
Sata Andagi is a street food. You can find it in Makishi Market or at local festivals.
10. Chinsuko (Okinawan Cookies)
This local cuisine is one of the most popular souvenirs to bring back from Okinawa. These oval-shaped cookies are made with wheat flour, sugar, and lard. They melt in your mouth as soon as you bite them.
The best places to get them are at gift shops on Kokusaidori.
11. Tofuyo
Among the traditional foods of Okinawa, this one has the strongest taste. The people of Okinawa knew this as court cuisine because it was time consuming and expensive to make.
Tofuyo is fermented tofu made with awamori. It has a cream cheese texture with the alcoholic note of the awamori (Okinawan rice alcohol) clearly present.
The best place to find this dish is at Okinawan-style Izakayas.
12. Shikwasa (Citrus fruit)
Shikwasa are tropical fruits found in Okinawa. When I tell you I miss Shikwasa juice… OMG.
My mouth is watering just thinking about it. Many local restaurants serving Okinawan food will have this.
You can also find the juice at convenience stores around the island.
13. Blue Seal Ice Cream
This delicious ice cream shop serves up the essence of Okinawa and its flavors. Try their ice cream flavors in shikuwasa, purple sweet potato, and salt cookies.
My favorite location is in American Village and it’s really fun to hang out there with your friends.
Where To Eat Foreign Food in Okinawa
Sometimes you just want a good ol’ burger or pizza. These are my top picks for the best foreign food on Okinawa.
1. Gordie’s Burgers in Sunabe
For a good ol’ taste of the United States, come here. I recommend you try their Teriyaki Egg Burger and Pineapple Bacon Cheeseburger.
2. Bella Napoli in Sunabe
This was one of my absolute favorite places to come watch the sunset after snorkeling and admiring the coral reefs. They serve delicious brick oven pizza!
3. Sunabe Gyros in Sunabe
The owner lived abroad in Greece and fell in love with the cuisine… The Saganaki is absolutely divine!
4. Kinpa Ginpa in American Village
Technically Asian food, but hear me out. This is one of the best places on the island for ramen and Chu-his.
5. Ocean’s Pizza in Yomitan
This is one of the better places on the island to eat pizza. I often went for their lunch buffet and sat by the window for great views of the ocean.
6. Dechibica in Yomitan
This is one of the most famous vegan eats on the island. The owners Kiwa and Taku San are seriously wonderful people.
I shamelessly ate at this restaurant once or twice a week and they are truly food artists. Their food is always fresh and locally sourced.
7. Pizza in the Sky in Motobu
When I tell you this pizza joint is famous, I mean it. They use high-quality ingredients cook the pizza in a brick oven.
Also, if you couldn’t tell from the name, the restaurant is on top of a mountain making the views and pizza totally worth it.
8. Captain Kangaroo in Nago
This is another famous burger place on the island. Their burgers are huge and it’s insanely popular with foreigners and Japanese alike.
Hopefully this blog post has left you feeling hungry… Or rather inspired to grab a bite to eat at one of the amazing places to eat in Okinawa.
Now you know what to eat in Okinawa and where to eat in Okinawa. Happy eating, kids! You’re gonna love it!
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