Photograph:スガフキン
Okinawa is famous for its many traditional dishes, such as Goya Champuru and Mimiga. In this guide, we have selected popular izakayas located mainly near Kokusai Dori, one of the island's most renowned tourist destinations, as well as other favorites around the city. Be sure to include these spots in your travel plans when visiting Okinawa.
Created: October 9, 2025
This article is based on5,393Tabelog reviews.
Table of Contents
Photograph:なまらうまい
Located about a 3-minute walk from Kencho-mae Station on Kokusai Street, Yunangii is an izakaya specializing in Okinawan cuisine.
While it is a favorite among local regulars, many tourists also return again and again. As this popular spot tends to fill up quickly, making a reservation is highly recommended.
Photograph:うまうましー
"Fu Champuru" is a stir-fried dish featuring vegetables seasoned to perfection and irresistibly juicy wheat gluten that soaks up all the flavors.
It also includes corned beef and small diced potatoes, making it a dish you'll want to enjoy again and again.
Photograph:VOICE3
A popular appetizer, "Mimiga" is made from finely sliced pig's ear, known for its pleasantly crunchy texture.
It is mixed with bean sprouts and seasoned with ponzu and ume-salt sauce, creating a refreshing flavor. Locals often enjoy it as a casual snack.
かみ～
Goya Sunomono (Bitter Melon Vinegar Salad)
This dish features generous slices of goya—Okinawa’s signature bitter melon—served as a refreshing vinegar salad. If you enjoy the unique bitterness of goya, you’ll appreciate how much is packed into each serving. Unlike goya champuru, this salad allows you to savor the pure, unadulterated flavor of the vegetable.
Source:かみ～'s review
VOICE3
Yunangii is my personal top choice among Okinawan izakayas. Each visit brings a new selection of dishes, all prepared with remarkable delicacy and perfectly balanced flavors. The attentive and professional service provided by the staff creates a pleasant and welcoming atmosphere. This is truly a restaurant I love.
Source:VOICE3's review
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Photograph:頑固おやじ3
Located about a 5-minute walk from Kencho-mae Station, Yakiniku Hana specializes in Ishigaki beef and premium Japanese Black Wagyu. Here, you can fully enjoy Okinawa's renowned Wagyu to your heart's content.
The stylish and inviting atmosphere also makes it an excellent choice for a date.
Photograph:まかにゃん☆
This is the "Ishigaki Beef Special Strip Loin." Known for its exceptional quality, Ishigaki beef is so tender it melts in your mouth from the first bite.
If your travel budget allows, be sure to try this exquisite dish.
Photograph:MD COKE
The photo shows an assorted platter of Agu pork (for one person). Agu is a rare native breed of Okinawan pig, prized for its unique flavor and heritage.
Agu pork is known for its rich marbling, yet it has very little odor, making it easy to enjoy even for those who are sensitive to pork flavors.
肉山ぷに子
They offer a selection of wines, and each meat dish is beautifully presented with tropical edible flowers, making it an excellent choice for a date.
Source:肉山ぷに子's review
カベルナッシュ
Negi-Tan Shio (Beef Tongue with Scallions)
This dish features thinly sliced beef tongue generously topped with a layer of fresh scallions. We prefer to grill both sides of the tongue to perfection, setting the scallions aside while cooking. Once the tongue is ready, we pile the scallions back on, let it steam briefly, then roll it up and dip it into lemon juice. A quick bounce on top of a bowl of rice, and it’s ready to enjoy—absolutely delicious.
Source:カベルナッシュ's review
201
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Photograph:Légume
Located about a 2-minute walk from Kencho-mae Station, this izakaya is known for live performances of Okinawan folk music by the owner.
The owner personally plays the sanshin (a traditonal Okinawan instrument), while local guests are invited to join in singing.
Photograph:Légume
The restaurant offers more than 30 varieties of alcoholic beverages, including original Awamori-based cocktails.
One of the most popular drinks is the signature cocktail "Hoshi no Suna." This refreshing and easy-to-drink cocktail is made by mixing Awamori, shikuwasa citrus, and ginger ale.
Photograph:mickeyclub
One of the most popular dishes here is the "Ootaniwatari Tempura." Enjoy its unique, crisp texture with every bite.
Ootaniwatari is a type of edible fern, and its young shoots are mainly cultivated for culinary use in the Yaeyama Islands.
ポコロニア
Of course, the delicious food and drinks are a highlight, but the real attraction is the owner's live singing performance. Many guests come here just for this unique experience.
Source:ポコロニア's review
はちもぐ
Ishigaki Beef Menchi Katsu
The Ishigaki Beef Menchi Katsu here is exceptional! It's so flavorful that it tastes amazing even without any sauce. This is a must-try specialty.
Source:はちもぐ's review
357
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Photograph:052hiro
Located about a 2-minute walk from Asahibashi Station, this izakaya is known for its warm and welcoming atmosphere.
Inside, you'll find large fish tanks and refrigerated displays featuring a diverse selection of fresh seafood unique to Okinawa.
Photograph:タキトゥス
This is one of the restaurant's most popular dishes: Butter-Grilled Okinawan Fish.
A whole white fish is expertly prepared, resulting in a fragrant, tender, and juicy texture. The butter and garlic seasoning pairs perfectly with Awamori, making it an ideal dish to enjoy with a glass of this local spirit.
Photograph:タキトゥス
The restaurant’s signature dish is the "Ika Sumi Somen Champuru."
This stir-fried noodle dish features somen, onions, garlic chives, and other ingredients, all finished with rich squid ink. It has a mildly spicy flavor and a deep umami from the squid ink.
リコスケ
This is the perfect place to enjoy authentic Okinawan cuisine. While there were some tourists, many locals were dining here as well. A restaurant frequented by locals is always a good sign!
Source:リコスケ's review
りょんこ
Grilled Yako-gai (giant sea snail) with butter
Served in its impressive shell, the sheer size is truly striking. The texture is something between abalone and turban shell, with a rich, savory flavor. The sweet and slightly bitter taste of the innards pairs perfectly with the buttery aroma.
Source:りょんこ's review
378
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Photograph:りゅーとりあ
Located about a 3-minute walk from Miebashi Station, Shunsai Dokoro Biidoro is an izakaya specializing in Okinawan cuisine.
The restaurant is known for its cozy, Okinawan-inspired atmosphere, making it an ideal spot for those who want to enjoy traditional dishes at a relaxed pace. As it is a popular destination, reservations are recommended.
Photograph:初代タタカエラーメンマン
The "Assorted Sashimi Platter" is one of the most popular menu items, ordered by nearly everyone who visits.
It features Gurukun (banana fish), Miibai (grouper), Chinuman (spangled emperor), and island octopus—four varieties rarely found outside Okinawa.
Photograph:初代タタカエラーメンマン
At Shunsai Dokoro Biidoro, guests are welcome to bring in their own fresh fish. The restaurant will prepare your catch using the most suitable cooking method for that particular fish.
Purchasing a fish at the market and having it cooked to your preference is sure to become a memorable part of your Okinawa experience.
kon-kon
The drinks kept flowing, and the selection of appetizers made everything even better—pure happiness. Each dish reflected the owner’s passion and refined sense of hospitality.
Source:kon-kon's review
りゅーとりあ
Rafute
Tender braised pork belly simmered in a rich miso-based sauce, with a hint of Awamori for extra depth. The flavor is exceptionally smooth and savory—perfect as an accompaniment to drinks rather than just a meal. It pairs especially well with Awamori, making it hard to stop at just one glass.
Source:りゅーとりあ's review
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Photograph:Sean☆
This popular izakaya is located about a 3-minute walk from Miebashi Station.
The interior features a warm wood design and subdued lighting, creating a sophisticated and relaxed atmosphere. In the back, you'll find a wide selection of Awamori on display. Let the staff know your preferences and they will recommend the perfect bottle for you.
Photograph:Jyouro
Duru-ten is said to be one of the most popular dishes, ordered by almost every guest.
This specialty is a tempura version of "Duru-wakashi," a traditional Okinawan dish. Made from taro root, it features a delightfully chewy texture.
Photograph:わたかつ
Somen Champuru is another popular dish here, known for its addictive flavor.
This simple stir-fry features noodles, green onions, and miso, all combined for a delicious taste. The somen noodles are pan-fried until golden, giving them a pleasantly firm texture.
コショラー
Not only does Marchinuya serve exquisitely seasoned Okinawan cuisine, but the service is also exceptional. This restaurant is perfect for a quiet evening out, whether on a date or with a small group, rather than a lively gathering. With its outstanding food quality, it is highly recommended as your first stop of the night.
Source:コショラー's review
中山かんた
Duruten
This is by far the best Duruten I have ever tasted. Normally, I prefer Duruwakashi (the non-fried version), but the one here seems to be lightly fried, striking the perfect balance between Duruten and Duruwakashi. The result is truly outstanding.
Source:中山かんた's review
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Photograph:ひでとんとん
Just a 3-minute walk from Miebashi Station, Dachibin offers authentic Okinawan cuisine made with carefully selected local ingredients.
Housed in a renovated traditional Okinawan home, the restaurant features a charming retro interior. Enjoy both the unique flavors and the nostalgic atmosphere of Okinawa during your visit.
Photograph:kanaoka803
The most popular dish here is the "Pine Agu Shabu-shabu."
Pine Agu refers to a special breed of pork raised on a diet that includes pineapple, resulting in meat that is more tender, juicy, and free from the typical pork aroma.
Photograph:Sean☆
The restaurant offers over 40 varieties of Awamori. You can also enjoy original Awamori-based cocktails crafted by the staff.
Guests are encouraged to ask the staff for recommendations, making it enjoyable to discover the perfect Awamori to suit your taste.
Sean☆
This restaurant, renovated from a traditional Okinawan house, is a favorite of mine that I visit often for its inviting atmosphere. Inside, you can choose between table seating or traditional tatami rooms, but the central tatami area in particular offers a relaxed setting that feels just like enjoying drinks at home.
Source:Sean☆'s review
めこの
The umi-budō (sea grapes) are small but have a mild flavor with little bitterness or saltiness, making them perfect when dipped in ponzu sauce. They pair exceptionally well with a glass of draft Orion beer.
Source:めこの's review
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Photograph:ライQさん
Located just a one-minute walk from Yui Rail Asato Station, Urizun is an izakaya known for its extensive menu selection.
Established in 1972, the restaurant takes pride in its carefully curated selection of Awamori, Okinawa's unique distilled spirit. The interior features a traditional Okinawan design, evoking the charm of an old folk house.
Photograph:さなぎ.com
The "Urizun Set Meal" is recommended for those who want to sample a wide variety of traditional Okinawan dishes.
The menu features specialties such as Rafute (braised pork belly), kombu irichi (stir-fried kombu kelp), duruten (deep-fried taro), and sashimi. This set offers a selection of classic Okinawan dishes served in small portions, allowing you to enjoy many different flavors in one meal.
Photograph:ロサちゃん
"Pork Abura Miso" is a traditional Okinawan preserved dish.
Enjoy perfectly grilled pork served with warm pork miso. The seasoning is well-balanced—not too salty, with a delicious sweet and savory flavor that pairs well with both rice and drinks.
RyoJoGo
Every dish was truly delicious, leaving me with a newfound appreciation for Okinawan cuisine. The rafute (braised pork belly) was especially impressive—so tender it was almost surprising. Even children enjoyed it, happily eating the juicy pieces.
Source:RyoJoGo's review
ロサちゃん
Duruten
A savory fritter made with taro root as the base, mixed with pork, fish cake, and shiitake mushrooms, then deep-fried to perfection. Enjoy its fluffy texture and delicious flavor—similar to a Japanese-style taro croquette, it's an addictive dish you won't want to miss.
Source:ロサちゃん's review
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Photograph:ぱたぱたぱたごにあ
Located just off Kokusai Street, Yagi Ryori Sakae is an izakaya specializing in goat dishes.
Rather than ordering from a menu, the owner prepares dishes and asks each guest whether they would like to try them or not, creating a unique dining experience.
Photograph:ネコねこさん
"Yaki Hechima" (grilled sponge gourd) is a unique dish rarely found elsewhere. Sliced sponge gourd, which resembles eggplant, is sautéed in a frying pan and served hot.
It is known for its distinct melon-like aroma and the tender texture of its seeds, making it a flavorful and memorable experience.
Photograph:ぱたぱたぱたごにあ
One of the most popular dishes here is the "Yagi Sashimi" (goat sashimi).
Known for its clean, refreshing taste and distinctive umami flavor that becomes addictive with each bite, this specialty is best enjoyed simply with soy sauce and fresh ginger.
くうるどっぐ
I believe the true charm of this restaurant lies in connecting with the people and enjoying the moment together. After experiencing such an authentic Okinawan atmosphere, it’s impossible not to want to return. Personally, I truly love this place.
Source:くうるどっぐ's review
ぱたぱたぱたごにあ
Goat Sashimi
A beautifully balanced platter of goat sashimi featuring both skin and lean meat. This dish is free from any gamey flavor, allowing you to fully appreciate the rich, pure taste of goat. The skin offers a pleasant, springy texture, complemented by the melt-in-your-mouth fat. The lean meat delivers a depth of flavor that is truly unique and rarely found elsewhere.
Source:ぱたぱたぱたごにあ's review
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Photograph:foodwork
Located about a 15-minute drive from central Naha and an 8-minute walk from Gibo Station, Ryukyu Sabo Ashibiuna is an Okinawan izakaya near the entrance to Shurijo Castle.
Housed in a traditional Ryukyu-style home, the restaurant offers an authentic Okinawan atmosphere.
Photograph:macnn
This is the "Soki Soba Set Meal," which includes Soki Soba, rice, and three small side dishes, making for a satisfying and generous portion.
The Soki Soba features tender, slow-cooked pork rib meat with a light and refreshing broth. The side dishes are also recommended for their great taste.
Photograph:川井 潤
"Nakayama Daiichi Gozen" is a set meal featuring a variety of Okinawan specialties.
Enjoy an array of local dishes such as asa seaweed and shrimp kakiage fritters, sweet potato andagi (Okinawan doughnuts), mimiga-su (vinegared pig ear), island octopus sashimi with umi-budo (sea grapes), and ji-ma-mi (peanut) tofu. This meal offers a true taste of Okinawa.
ラッキー87
The entrance is truly atmospheric, with cascading flowers creating an almost mysterious allure. There are also seats on the veranda overlooking the garden, offering a comfortable and open setting.
Source:ラッキー87's review
ラッキー87
Duru-ten
Grated taro is mixed with pork paste and deep-fried. The flavor of pork is subtle, allowing the natural sweetness of the taro to come through. Not overly sweet, it makes for a satisfying savory dish.
Source:ラッキー87's review
