Okinawa’s Must-Try Local Cuisine: 21 Top Picks, from Classic Okinawa Soba to Sweets

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Located on Kurima Island, just across the bridge from Miyako Island, Okinawa Soba Marukami is a renowned spot for Okinawa's signature noodle dish, Okinawa soba. Just a 3-minute walk from the Miyako Kyoei Bus Kurima bus stop, this restaurant is known for its authentic flavors.

The owner, a former French chef, prepares Okinawa soba using fresh, homemade noodles and carefully selected ingredients, offering a unique and refined take on this local specialty.

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The okinawa soba is topped with melt-in-your-mouth, slow-simmered pork belly. You can choose between wavy or straight noodles.

The combination of tender pork belly and the delicate, flavorful broth creates an exceptional harmony.

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The "Mozuku Juushi" is made by stir-frying white rice in pork lard before cooking, resulting in a light and fluffy texture.

It features ingredients such as mozuku seaweed, pork, and shiitake mushrooms, creating a flavorful dish packed with umami.

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A popular Okinawa soba restaurant located in Itoman City, about a 30-minute drive from Naha Airport.

Nanbu Soba offers four carefully crafted varieties of Okinawa soba, including specialties such as Tebichi Soba (with stewed pork trotters) and Hon-Soki Soba (with pork spare ribs), each prepared with select ingredients.

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The signature "Sanmai Niku Soba" at Nanbu Soba features a rich broth made by slowly simmering pork bones and generously using bonito flakes.

The combination of the flavorful soup, tender pork belly slices, and their house-made curly noodles creates an exceptional harmony of flavors.

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The signature dish here is "Tebichi Soba," a bowl of Okinawa soba topped with tender pork trotters—a beloved local delicacy.

The pork trotters are simmered with black vinegar and ginger, adding a flavorful accent to the light and refreshing Okinawa soba.

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Located about a 10-minute walk from Omoromachi Station in Naha, Okinawa, Yunami specializes in Okinawa soba made with house-made whole wheat noodles.

The spacious interior features counter seating, table seating, and raised tatami seating areas for a relaxed dining experience.

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The "Mix Soba" is a gourmet dish topped with sanmai niku (pork belly), tebichi (simmered pig's feet), and soki (pork spare ribs).

It features a light seafood-based broth that pairs perfectly with the noodles, and the slow-cooked meats complement the flavors beautifully.

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The "Taco Rice" features a generous topping of seasoned ground meat, cheese, and fresh vegetables over a bed of rice, offering an authentic taste of Okinawa.

Add a dash of Tabasco sauce from the table for an extra kick.

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Located just a 1-minute walk from the Manza Beach-mae bus stop in Onna Village, Okinawa, Toto Chanpuru is a creative izakaya where you can enjoy authentic Okinawan cuisine made with carefully selected ingredients.

The restaurant offers a variety of private rooms, providing a relaxing and intimate dining experience.

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The chanpuru menu features several variations, including the original "Daily Special Toto Chanpuru."

The "Tofu Chanpuru" is a hearty Okinawan specialty made by stir-frying local island tofu, pork, and vegetables.

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The "Five-Variety Local Fish Sashimi Platter" is a popular menu item featuring exceptionally fresh sashimi.

The drink selection is also extensive, ranging from Orion Draft—perfectly paired with Okinawan cuisine—to a wide variety of Awamori and other classic options.

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Located about a 5-minute walk from Kencho-mae Station in Okinawa City, Mikasa is a long-established eatery serving Okinawan cuisine since 1966.

The spacious and welcoming interior features both counter and table seating, making it an easy and comfortable choice for all guests.

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Champuru dishes are available in a wide variety, including seasonal options like goya (bitter melon).

The somen champuru features Okinawan wheat noodles stir-fried with onions and other ingredients.

For lunch, we recommend the set menu, which includes a half portion of rice and soup.

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The restaurant's signature dish since its founding, "Original Champon," features a savory blend of onions and minced meat simmered with eggs and served over rice.

Seasoned with a hint of sweetness, this flavorful topping pairs perfectly with rice and is sure to satisfy.

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Located about a one-minute walk from the Isagawa Bus Stop in Ginowan City, Okinawa, MEXICO is a Mexican restaurant established in 1977.

The restaurant offers a variety of seating options, including counter seats ideal for solo diners, as well as table and sofa seating.

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The "Staff Meal Taco Rice," inspired by Okinawan cuisine, is a popular limited-quantity dish available in two sizes.

A perfect harmony of rice, house-made taco meat, and original sauce creates an exceptional flavor, while fresh lettuce and tomato add just the right touch of freshness.

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The tacos feature a crispy yet chewy tortilla generously filled with taco meat and other fresh ingredients.

Add a spoonful of jalapeño-infused salsa for an extra kick of spicy flavor.

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Located just a one-minute walk from Kiyuna Bus Stop in Ginowan City, King Tacos is said to be the birthplace of Okinawa’s famous "Taco Rice" and is a popular dining destination.

The interior offers a casual and welcoming atmosphere, with table seating available for groups of various sizes.

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The "Original Taco Rice with Cheese and Vegetables" is a hearty dish based on classic taco rice, topped with extra cheese and vegetables for added flavor and satisfaction.

We recommend adding the salsa sauce available at the counter to enjoy a spicy kick.

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The side menu features a variety of fast food-style options, including their signature tacos.

The "Chicken Barabara" is especially popular for its crispy texture and juicy flavor, making it a dish you'll want to enjoy again and again.

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Located about a 12-minute drive from Naha Airport, this café-restaurant is part of Umikaji Terrace on Senagajima Island in Tomigusuku City, with several locations across Okinawa.

Guests can choose between casual indoor seating or a spacious terrace area with an open, relaxed atmosphere.

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The "Omu-Taco" is an original dish that combines Okinawa's famous taco rice with a fluffy, creamy omelet on top.

The taco rice meat is carefully seasoned with select spices, and you can choose between mild and medium-hot flavors.

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One of the most popular dishes is the "Taco Rice" pictured here. Generous portions of fresh vegetables, seasoned ground meat, and the café’s original salsa sauce come together for a delicious combination.

The "Four Cheese" topping is also a popular choice.

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Located about a 7-minute walk from Miebashi Station on the Yui Rail in Naha, Okinawa, Shabushabu Kin specializes in shabu-shabu made with Okinawa’s renowned Agu pork.

The spacious and tranquil interior offers table seating, sofa seating, and private rooms, providing a comfortable dining experience for all guests.

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The menu features only one course: the Special Agu Pork Shabu-shabu Course.

Enjoy the rare Agu pork and unique island vegetables from Okinawa, served with shikuwasa pepper, Yagaji Island salt, and Tamana miso for a truly local flavor experience.

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The set menu includes "umibudo" (sea grapes), which are especially delicious when wrapped in slices of pork that have been dipped in the hot broth.

For drinks, you can choose from Orion Draft, awamori, cocktails, and more.

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Located about a 5-minute drive from Yaka Interchange in Kunigami District, Okinawa, Okinawa Cuisine Shimabuta Ya is renowned for serving premium "Shimabuta" pork sourced from Okinawa.

The restaurant offers a variety of seating options, including counter seats, table seating, and sunken kotatsu seating for a comfortable dining experience.

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The "Super Premium Agu Island Kuro Seiro Steamed Course" offers a full Okinawan gourmet experience, featuring dishes such as "Agu Pork and Island Vegetables Steamed in a Bamboo Basket."

The pork, steamed in a basket, is light and feels healthy as excess fat is removed during cooking. It can be enjoyed with salt, ponzu sauce, or a rich black sesame sauce.

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The side menu also features a variety of Okinawa’s signature dishes.

One of the most popular items is Shimabuta Ya’s Rafute—pork belly simmered until tender and melt-in-your-mouth. The drink menu includes Orion Draft Beer and a selection of Awamori, both perfect pairings for Okinawan cuisine.

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Located just a one-minute walk from the Ibube Beach bus stop in Onna Village, Kunigami District, Okinawa, Kafu is a popular restaurant offering a wide variety of Okinawan cuisine.

The interior features décor inspired by Okinawa’s unique culture. Seating options include both tables and sunken kotatsu seating.

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The "Agu Pork Shabu-shabu Hot Pot" allows you to compare two cuts of pork: belly and loin.

Enjoy a variety of dipping sauces, including house-made dashi soy sauce, refreshing shikuwasa citrus ponzu, and savory sesame sauce, offering a range of flavors to complement your meal.

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The popular "Churashima Agu Shabu-shabu Course" features a hot pot as its centerpiece and offers a variety of Okinawa’s signature dishes.

A wide selection of drinks is also available, including Orion Draft Beer, Awamori, and other classic options.

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Located about a 5-minute walk from Asahibashi Station in Naha, Okinawa, O's House is a renowned steak restaurant established in 1954, offering gourmet steaks in an inviting setting.

Open exclusively for dinner, the restaurant can fills up during peak hours, so reservations are highly recommended.

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There are several steak options available, with portions ranging from 150g to 300g.

The premium Japanese tenderloin is exceptionally tender—it can be cut effortlessly with a knife—and is renowned for its rich, savory flavor.

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The appetizers, such as Steamed Clams in Sake and Garlic Bread, are also highly recommended.

The drink menu features a wide selection, including wines that pair perfectly with steak, Awamori, cocktails, and more.

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Located about a 5-minute walk from the Remote Island Terminal in Ishigaki City, Okinawa, Corners Grill is a gourmet restaurant specializing in premium Ishigaki beef.

The interior features dark wood accents and offers a calm, relaxing atmosphere where you can enjoy your meal at your own pace.

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The "Ishigaki Beef Steak" menu features options such as "Filet Chateaubriand" and "Strip Loin Cut Steak."

Please note that these dishes are available in limited quantities and are priced at market rate, so advance reservations are recommended.

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The regular menu at Corners Grill features dishes made with Ishigaki beef, including hamburgers and Hamburg steak.

The hamburgers are especially popular, featuring a 100% Ishigaki beef patty. Served with a variety of toppings on the side, you can customize your burger to your own taste.

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Located about an 8-minute walk from the Chubu Tokushukai Hospital bus stop on the Okinawa City Loop Bus, this neighborhood favorite has been serving the community since its founding in 1979.

The interior features a stylish, luxurious atmosphere, with a choice of counter seating, table seating, and a terrace area.

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The signature "Jumbo Steak" is known for being lean, tender, and exceptionally juicy.

Enjoy it with salt and pepper or try it with the restaurant’s original sauce for a unique twist.

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The "Ryukyu Steak Set" is a gourmet meal that features both steak and teppan-grilled seafood.

We recommend adding soup, salad, and a drink to your steak menu. Drink options include draft beer and wine.

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Located about a 3-minute drive north from the Kyoda Interchange on the Okinawa Expressway, Ryukyu Meika Mitsuya specializes in take-away Okinawan sweets, particularly "Sata Andagi" (Okinawan-style doughnuts).

The shop is situated within "Michi-no-Eki Kyoda" (Kyoda Roadside Station), making it a convenient stop for a break during your drive.

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Sata Andagi, Okinawa’s traditional doughnuts, are available in a variety of flavors including classic plain, purple sweet potato, and pumpkin.

Each doughnut is freshly fried to a crisp and is known for its gentle, comforting sweetness.

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The "Mitsuya Golden Ball" is a popular menu item available in limited quantities and during specific hours. It is best enjoyed fresh, right after purchase.

With a crisp, light exterior and a soft, fluffy center, this simple treat offers a delightfully nostalgic flavor.

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Located about an 8-minute drive from the Ishikawa Interchange on the Okinawa Expressway, Ryuhin is situated within the "Onna no Eki" roadside station in Nago City, Okinawa.

The shop is part of a food court with several other eateries, and guests can enjoy their treats in the shared dining area.

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The "Mixed Grain Zenzai" from the dessert menu features a refined, rich brown sugar (kokuto) sweetness that makes it the perfect treat for a break during your drive.

The unique texture of the mixed grains adds a delightful accent, making it especially delicious.

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Another popular item on the menu is shaved ice, available in a wide variety of flavors.

The "Tropical Fruit" shaved ice is a true Okinawan treat, topped with passion fruit, mango, and pineapple.

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Located about a one-minute walk from the Mihama American Village Entrance bus stop, this specialty shop along Route 58 offers some of Okinawa’s most popular ice cream.

The interior features a stylish, American-inspired atmosphere.

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The menu features a wide variety of ice cream flavors, including Okinawa Mango and Salted Chinsuko (Okinawan shortbread/polvoron), a local specialty.

The Banana Split is a visually stunning dessert that allows you to choose three different ice cream flavors, beautifully decorated with assorted toppings for a treat that delights both the eyes and the palate.

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For lunch, we recommend trying gourmet options like burgers and hot dogs.

The "BLUE SEAL Burger" features a delicious combination of homemade buns, a juicy patty, and fresh vegetables.

You can also enjoy it as a set with a drink and fries.

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Located about a 6-minute walk from Miebashi Station in Naha, Okinawa, Arakaki Chinsuko Honpo is a specialty shop on Kokusai Street dedicated to Okinawa’s famous sweet, chinsuko.

Chinsuko is a traditional confection with a long history, said to have been created by chefs of the Ryukyu Kingdom.

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Chinsuko comes in a variety of flavors, including classic plain, brown sugar, and sea salt.

The plain variety is mildly sweet with a delicate, crumbly texture, making it a perfect match for coffee or tea.

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Kinsokou are round-shaped sweets stamped with the royal Ryukyu crest, known as "Sa Umon."

Made with lard from Agu pork, these treats offer a moist texture that sets them apart from traditional chinsuko.

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A gourmet burger shop located in Motobu, Kunigami District, Okinawa Prefecture, about a 20-minute drive from Kyoda IC on the Okinawa Expressway.

This popular restaurant often sees lines forming even before opening, especially on weekends. It is recommended to visit with plenty of time to spare.

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The signature "Sparky Burger" features a juicy patty topped with fresh vegetables, crispy bacon, and French fries.

The soft, fluffy bun perfectly complements each ingredient, creating a deliciously harmonious flavor in every bite.

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The menu also features original dishes inspired by Okinawa's famous taco rice.

The "Special Taco Rice" is generously topped with ground meat and beans, offering a spicy and flavorful experience.

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About a 10-minute walk from the Onna Village Office bus stop, this restaurant offers authentic Okinawan cuisine.

Located in the food court on the second floor of the "Manzamo Area Revitalization Facility," it shares a dining space with other eateries.

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The "Ganso Umi Budou Rice Bowl" features generous toppings of umi budou (sea grapes), offering a delightful popping texture with every bite.

After enjoying a few bites, mix in the grated yam (tororo) for a different layer of flavor.

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The menu features Okinawan classics such as Goya Champuru and Okinawa Soba, perfect for sharing with friends.

The drink selection includes Orion Beer, mango juice, and other local favorites that capture the spirit of Okinawa.

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Located just a one-minute walk from the Ojima Bus Stop in Nanjo City, Okinawa, Nakamoto Sengyo Ten is situated near Ojima Fishing Port and offers a variety of fresh seafood and Okinawan specialties.

The restaurant features a dining area where guests can enjoy fresh seafood dishes at reasonable prices.

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A wide variety of tempura is available here, featuring local specialties like mozuku seaweed, fresh fish, and beni-imo (Okinawan purple sweet potato).

The freshly fried mozuku tempura is especially popular for its light and fluffy texture, and is delicious even without any dipping sauce.

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For lunch, we recommend the hearty set meals such as the Stir-Fried Flying Squid with Miso Set Meal.

When you order a meal, you can enjoy unlimited servings of homemade mozuku seaweed in vinegar.