Okinawa is known for its warm hospitality and delicious local cuisine. For families new to Okinawa, discovering authentic local restaurants where locals dine can provide a taste of Okinawa's unique flavors and a chance to immerse in the local culture. Here are nine highly recommended spots for enjoying Okinawan soba and local dishes.
1. Sacchan Soba (幸ちゃんそば)
https://maps.app.goo.gl/ArSnPCPfDU1rZC1b6
- Location: Nago City
- Highlights: A cozy restaurant loved by locals in Nago. The homely atmosphere is its charm.
- Other Menu Options: Sōmen champuru (stir-fried noodles) and rafute (braised pork belly).
2. Gabusoka Shokudo Nago Main Store (我部祖河食堂 名護本店)
https://maps.app.goo.gl/idxF2TJbBuewXoaJ8
- Location: Nago City
- Highlights: Famous as the origin of sōki soba (Okinawan soba with pork spare ribs). Its simple yet rich flavors are a must-try.
- Other Menu Options: Juicy (Okinawan-style seasoned rice) and pork egg set meals.
3. Kinchichi Soba (金月そば)
https://maps.app.goo.gl/A6aWJgDsaGyUL9AX9
- Location: Yomitan Village
- Highlights: Known for its hand-made noodles. The thick noodles perfectly complement the rich broth.
- Other Menu Options: Set menus served with juicy rice.
4.Daruma Soba Yomitan (だるまそば 沖縄市)
https://maps.app.goo.gl/Wkqaepp66vguezzp6
- Location: Okinawa City
- Highlights: A simple yet satisfying Okinawan soba restaurant, popular with both locals and visitors.
- Other Menu Options: Sauce katsudon (pork cutlet bowl) and curry rice.
5. Mihama Shokudo (みはま食堂)
https://maps.app.goo.gl/v1gq98nAoaz3QPJy9
- Location: Chatan Town
- Highlights: A family-friendly diner serving hearty Okinawan home-cooked meals.
- Other Menu Options: Goya champuru (bitter melon stir-fry) and miso soup set meals.
6. Hamaya Soba (浜屋そば)
https://maps.app.goo.gl/tsx1UvqJvSnnwqTx8
- Location: Chatan Town
- Highlights: Famous for its wide variety of Okinawan soba dishes. A favorite among locals.
- Other Menu Options: Tebichi (stewed pig's feet) and jimami tofu (peanut tofu).
7. Kamezen Shokudo Mihama (かめぜん食堂 美浜店)
https://maps.app.goo.gl/8ZeWYXhQhGEvQUoD9
- Location: Mihama, Chatan Town
- Highlights: A nostalgic diner offering hearty Okinawan soba in a traditional style.
- Other Menu Options: Stir-fried vegetable set meals and tōfu champuru.
8. Saikyo Shokudo Chatan (最強食堂 宜野湾店)
https://maps.app.goo.gl/VwUUanwmZhGA4XhB8
- Location: Ginowan City
- Highlights: Known for affordable and filling Okinawan home-style dishes.
- Other Menu Options: Katsudon (pork cutlet bowl) and grilled meat set meals.
9. Awase Soba Shokudo (アワセそば食堂)
https://maps.app.goo.gl/XqfAqAKTZASAhzin8
- Location: Okinawa City
- Highlights: A light and refreshing broth characterizes their Okinawan soba. Large portions ensure satisfaction.
- Other Menu Options: Champuru set meals and karaage (fried chicken) set meals.
Useful Japanese Phrases for Dining at Local Restaurants
Here are some simple and practical phrases you can use when dining at these local spots.
| Japanese | Romaji | Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| これ ください。 | Kore kudasai. | "I’d like this, please." |
| お水 お願いします。 | Omizu onegaishimasu. | "Water, please." |
| ごちそうさまです。 | Gochisousama desu. | "Thank you for the meal." (when leaving) |
| 支払いはカードで大丈夫ですか？ | Shiharai wa kaado de daijoubu desu ka? | "Can I pay with a card?" |
| もう少し 時間をください。 | Mou sukoshi jikan wo kudasai. | "Please give me a little more time." |
| トイレはどこですか？ | Toire wa doko desu ka? | "Where is the restroom?" |
How to Use These Phrases
- When ordering:
Point to the menu item and say, "これください (Kore kudasai)."
- Requesting water:
If you need water, simply say, "お水お願いします (Omizu onegaishimasu)."
- Paying the bill:
At the register, ask, "支払いはカードで大丈夫ですか？(Shiharai wa kaado de daijoubu desu ka?)"
Have you got cash with you?
Many local restaurants in Okinawa are cash-only, so make sure to check their website before visiting, or always carry cash with you!
Also, some restaurants use ticket vending machines for ordering, so be prepared to purchase a meal ticket before sitting down!
Enjoy exploring Okinawa’s vibrant food culture and trying out these useful phrases at the recommended restaurants!