Best Restaurants in Okinawa: Top 18 Picks as Recommended by Top Japanese Chefs

Update-date: May 19 2025
Author: SAVOR JAPAN
Best Restaurants in Okinawa: Top 18 Picks as Recommended by Top Japanese Chefs

Okinawa is a popular travel destination known for its tropical charm, rich culture, and unique local cuisine. In this article, top Japanese chefs share their recommendations for the 18 best restaurants in Okinawa. Whether you're a first-time visitor or a returning foodie, these expert picks will guide you to unforgettable dining experiences on the island.

1. Agu-buta Shabu & Okinawa ryori Asatoya

Agu-buta Shabu & Okinawa ryori Asatoya cuisine
Agu-buta Shabu & Okinawa ryori Asatoya floor
Asatoya specializes in shabu-shabu with a one-set ordering system. The 120-minute all-you-can-eat course features Shimakuru Agu or Yanbaru Agu pork in housemade broth. The menu offers various Okinawan dishes and local awamori spirits. The all-you-can-drink plan includes sweet Awamori liqueur and Orion Beer. Set in a cozy Ryukyuan-style house with sunken kotatsu seating, Asatoya accommodates up to 60 guests, offers private rooms, and suits families, dates, and business events.

Agu-buta Shabu & Okinawa ryori Asatoya

Open: Dinner 5:00 pm - 11:00 pm (L.O. 10:30 pm)
Closed: None
Average price: [Dinner] 6,000 JPY
Access: 5-minute walk from Makishi Station / 10-minute walk from Asato Station
Address: 2F, Asato Bldg., 1-3-3, Asato, Naha-shi, Okinawa Map
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2. Umi no Maho Restaurant Magic Ocean

1. Umi no Maho Restaurant Magic Ocean
Top 15 Restaurants in Okinawa as Recommended by Top Japanese Chefs
Magic Ocean is a one-of-a-kind spot in Okinawa, offering top-class magic shows alongside delicious meals in a spacious and themed setting. Dishes like "OCEAN Rice Omelet" and the visually impressive "Onion Ring Tower" are both flavorful and eye-catching. The restaurant is full of unique objects and photogenic spots, providing plenty of opportunities for memorable photos. With fresh and exciting shows that captivate audiences, Magic Ocean is perfect for anniversaries or casual outings, attracting families, couples, tourists, and locals alike.

Umi no Maho Restaurant Magic Ocean

Open: Part 1: 5:00 pm (showtime starts from 6:00 pm) / Part 2: 8:00 pm (showtime starts from 9:00 pm)
Closed: Irregular
Average price: [Dinner] 3,500 JPY
Access: 40-minute drive from Naha Airport. 5-minute walk from Kuwae Bus Stop toward the Ferris wheel. It is located within Mihama Town Resort's American Village.
Address: 4F, Depot Central Bldg., 34-5, Mihama, Chatan-cho, Nakagami-gun, Okinawa Map
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3. Shabu Shabu Kumeya

1. Shabu Shabu Kumeya
Shabu Shabu Kumeya floor
Kumeya offers a lunch service without reservations but requires an appointment for dinner. Renowned for its exquisite Wagyu beef course meals, the restaurant excels in preparing dishes with deep expertise. The "ASATO Pork Shabu-shabu Course" featuring Shimakuru Agu Pork, a purebred Ryukyuan breed, is a must-try. The modern and luxurious ambiance, highlighted by Arima-yaki and Yachimun-yaki pottery, enhances the dining experience. Private rooms ensure complete privacy, making it ideal for intimate occasions such as dates, anniversaries, or special gatherings.

Shabu Shabu Kumeya

Open: [Monday-Saturday, National Holidays, Day Before National Holidays] Dinner 5:00 pm - 11:00 pm (L.O. 10:30 pm)
Closed: Sunday
Average price: [Dinner] 9,000 JPY
Access: 7-minute walk from Asahibashi Station / 7-minute walk from Prefectural Office Station
Address: 1F, Maison Kume, 2-11-1, Kume, Naha-shi, Okinawa Map
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4. MOSS okinawa

MOSS okinawa cuisine
MOSS okinawa floor
MOSS Okinawa blends the essence of Japan and Okinawa with French culinary techniques to create "Kiln-fired French" dishes. Using Okinawan products and ingredients from across Japan, meals are grilled in a 500°C stone kiln and paired with Japanese spices, Okinawan flavors, and medicinal herbs. The course menu is thoughtfully crafted, complemented by drink pairings. With just 12 counter seats, the chic and intimate space provides a relaxing atmosphere where exceptional cuisine delights both the palate and the spirit.

MOSS okinawa

Open: Lunch 11:30 am - 2:30 pm (L.O. 1:00 pm), [Saturday, Sunday, National Holidays] Dinner 5:00 pm - 11:00 pm (L.O 8:00 pm)
Closed: Monday
Average price: [Dinner] 12,000 JPY / [Lunch] 7,000 JPY
Access: 1-minute walk from Miebashi Station on Yui Rail Line
Address: Hotel Strata Naha, 1-19-8, Makishi, Naha-shi, Okinawa  Map
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5. Ristorante CROSS 47

Ristorante CROSS 47 cuisine
Ristorante CROSS 47 floor
Ristorante CROSS47, opened in January 2019, is popular among Okinawan food enthusiasts. Its interior, reflecting Okinawa's natural beauty, houses Chef Takara's Italian cuisine, primarily featuring local ingredients. The highlight is the "Cacio e Pepe" pasta, a simple dish boasting rich cheese and fresh Ishigaki Island and Sri Lankan peppers. The restaurant, one of the prefecture's largest with a capacity of 80, is perfect for parties. Trained staff assure impeccable service for all occasions.

Ristorante CROSS 47

Open: [Monday, Wednesday-Sunday, National Holidays, Day Before National Holidays] Lunch 12:00 - 3:00 pm (L.O. 2:00 pm) / Dinner 6:00 pm - 11:00 pm (L.O. 10:00 pm)
Closed: Tuesday
Average price: [Dinner] 7,000 JPY
Access: 3-minute walk after getting off at Yui Rail Asato Station
Address: 1F, 2-4-7, Asato, Naha-shi, Okinawa Map
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6. Agu Tonkatsu Coshon Ukishima-dori branch

3. Agu Tonkatsu Coshon Ukishima-dori branch
Top 15 Restaurants in Okinawa as Recommended by Top Japanese Chefs
At the Agu Tonkatsu COSHION Ukishima-dori branch in Okinawa, enjoy a unique pork cutlet experience. Popular with locals and tourists, the highlight is the [Gold Agu Pork] cutlet, a rare, juicy, and savory treat that is double-deep-fried to enhance its flavor. This crispy, simple dish is a favorite among women and seniors. Complement it with our seasonal Okinawan vegetable deep-fries, Orion Beer, and awamori. Our neat restaurant is ideal for sightseeing trips, family outings, or dates.

Agu Tonkatsu Coshon Ukishima-dori branch

Open: 11:00 am - 11:00 pm (L.O. 10:00 pm)
Closed: None
Average price: [Dinner] 1,500 JPY / [Lunch] 1,000 JPY
Access: From Makishi Station, go west along Kokusai-dori Street. From [Mutsumi-bashi Bridge], go south along [Shijo Hon-dori Shopping Street]. Turn left at Ukishima-dori Street, then go straight for 10 meters.
Address: 3-3-21 Makishi, Naha city, Okinawa Map
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7. Izakaya Marusa Main branch

4. Izakaya Marusa Main branch
Top 15 Restaurants in Okinawa as Recommended by Top Japanese Chefs
At this restaurant, guests can enjoy affordably priced, freshly caught sashimi and simmered fish. With 6-7 types of fish on offer, the selection varies based on the weather. The eatery's open, homely space is perfect for savoring classic Okinawan dishes like [Stir-Fried Bitter Melon with Meat, Tofu, and Other Vegetables] and [Okinawan-Style Braised Pork]. A choice of 10 types of island liquor and awamori, or local beer from Ishigaki-jima Island, makes it a popular spot among tourists.

Izakaya Marusa Main branch

Open: 6:00 pm - 0:00 am
Closed: Irregular
Average price: [Dinner] 4,000 JPY
Access: 150 meters from Art Hotel Ishigaki
Address: 503-1 Ishigaki, Ishigaki city, Okinawa Map
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8. Sumibi Yakitori BOND

1. Sumibi Yakitori BOND
Top 15 Restaurants in Okinawa as Recommended by Top Japanese Chefs
Sumibi Yakitori BOND, opened in Naha-shi's Tsubogawa in April 2023, reinvents traditional Yakitori. Offering yakitori made with choice ingredients and a unique red wine and fruit sauce, it pairs well with wine. The menu features Italian influences and a dynamic blackboard menu accompanied by fine wines. Must-try dishes are "Kagoshima Shukei Tataki" and "Kagoshima Shukei Seared Thigh", highlighting Shukei chicken's richness. The restaurant also has a party-friendly secluded area and offers all-you-can-drink courses.

Sumibi Yakitori BOND

Open: [Monday - Thursday] Dinner 6:00 pm - 12:00 am (L.O. 11:00 pm) / [Friday, Saturday] Dinner 5:00 pm - 12:00 am (L.O. 11:00 pm)
Closed: Irregular 
Average price: [Dinner] 4,000 JPY
Access: 8-minute walk from Tsubogawa Station on the Yui Rail Line. It is on the first floor next to Poplar Children's Garden.
Address: 1F, Bay Bridge Tsubokawa, 2-5-11, Tsubogawa, Naha-shi, Okinawa Map
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9. 37 Steakhouse & Bar Naha

5. 37 Steakhouse & Bar Naha
Top 15 Restaurants in Okinawa as Recommended by Top Japanese Chefs
37 Steakhouse & Bar Naha is the go-to destination for anyone seeking an authentic American-style steakhouse. They specialize in serving steaks using aged in-house beef, offering an indescribably rich flavor. Their menu also features a wide variety of dishes incorporating Okinawan ingredients like goya (bitter gourd) and mango, which can be enjoyed alongside high-quality New World wines. The restaurant, boasting a 6m high ceiling, large windows, and a spacious luxurious area, ensures a relaxing dining experience. With private rooms and large screens available, it's an excellent venue for a variety of occasions, from private meetings to parties.

37 Steakhouse & Bar Naha

Open: Morning 6: 30 am -10: 00 am (L.O. 9: 30 am) / Lunch 11: 30 am - 3:00 pm (L.O. 2:30 pm) / Tea time 11: 30 am - 4:30 pm (L.O. 4:00 pm) / Dinner 5:30 pm - 10:30 pm (L.O. 9:30 pm)
Closed: None
Average price: [Dinner] 7,000 JPY / [Lunch] 2,000 JPY
Access: On the first floor in Hotel Blossom Naha
Address: 1F, Blossom Naha, 2-16-1, Makishi, Naha-shi, Okinawa Map
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10.Restaurant Sunpeer

6.Restaurant Sunpeer
Top 15 Restaurants in Okinawa as Recommended by Top Japanese Chefs
Restaurant Sunpeer, situated on Yuinchi Hotel Nanjo's second floor, is a "health-friendly buffet" offering over 50 types of locally-sourced Japanese, Chinese, and Western dishes. With a monthly changing menu, each visit brings new culinary surprises. Large windows provide stunning panoramas over Nanjo City and Nakagusuku Bay, adding a special touch to meals. Ideal for dates, friend gatherings, or lunch meetings, this venue lets you unwind while enjoying the Pacific Ocean and blue sky views.

Restaurant Sunpeer

Open: Breakfast 7:00 am - 9:00 am, Lunch 11:30 am - 2:30 pm (L.O. 2:00 pm), Dinner 5:30 pm - 10:00 pm (L.O. 9:30 pm)
Closed: None
Average price: [Dinner] 3,300 JPY / [Lunch] 2,350 JPY
Access: Around 40 minutes by car from Naha Airport on the Naha Airport prefectural route
Address: 1688, Sashikishinzato, Nanjo-shi, Okinawa Map
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11. Echizen

8. Echizen
Top 15 Restaurants in Okinawa as Recommended by Top Japanese Chefs
Echizen is a crab restaurant that offers meticulously crafted dishes using crabs from Hokkaido. Each dish is artistically presented, perfectly seasoned, and precisely cooked. The restaurant pairs these dishes with premium sake and offers a selection of about 20 wines, including those from Kenzo Estate Winery. Upon entering, you're greeted by an extraordinary ambiance, featuring modern Japanese decor and a relaxing atmosphere. Echizen is ideal for special occasions such as dinners, dates, and celebratory events. It provides a quality dining experience for you and your special someone.

Echizen

Open: Dinner 5:00 pm - 11:00 pm (L.O 10:00 pm)
Closed: None
Average price: [Dinner] 15,000 JPY
Access: After getting off at Omoromachi Station on the Yui Rail Line, 6 minutes walk
Address: 1F, Omoro City Court GINOZA, 4-11-1, Omoromachi, Naha-shi, Okinawa Map
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12. STEAK HIKARU

9. STEAK HIKARU
Top 15 Restaurants in Okinawa as Recommended by Top Japanese Chefs
Steak Hikaru is renowned for its Australian Wagyu beef steak, originating from cattle that share genes with Japanese Wagyu and are grain-fed for over 400 days. The meat is chilled during transportation to maintain its flavor. The restaurant also features two original sauces, [Hikaru Sauce] and [Onion Base], crafted by the chef. Typically, Okinawans enjoy their steak or yakiniku with alcohol, but it can be enjoyed without as well. Many customers visit after work. If you're looking for a high-quality steak in a peaceful atmosphere, this restaurant is worth a try.

STEAK HIKARU

Open: [Weekdays, Saturday, National Holidays, Day before National Holidays] Regular time 11:00 am - 6:00 am (L.O. 5:30 am)
Closed: Sunday
Average price: [Dinner] 1,000 JPY
Access: 1 minute walk from the Matsuyama Intersection/ 389 meters away from Miebashi Station
Address: 1F, Marumitsu Bldg., 2-8-7, Matsuyama, Naha-shi, Okinawa Map
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13. Mahoroba Irori Okinawa Branch

12. Mahoroba Irori Okinawa Branch
Top 15 Restaurants in Okinawa as Recommended by Top Japanese Chefs
Mahoroba Irori Okinawa provides a unique dining experience with Irori-yaki and seasonal Japanese cuisine. Dishes feature Okinawan ingredients like Motobu beef and "Paiton" Agu pork, paired with a diverse range of wines and sake. The interior showcases a traditional Japanese aesthetic, decorated with wallpaper inspired by the Okinawan sky and sea. With counter seating and spacious private rooms, the restaurant offers a memorable dining experience.

Mahoroba Irori Okinawa Branch

Open: [Monday, Tuesday, Thursday-Sunday, National Holidays, Day Before National Holidays]  Lunch 12:00 pm - 2:00 pm (L.O. 1:30 pm) / Dinner 5:00 pm - 11:30 pm (L.O. 11:00 pm)
Closed: Wednesday
Average price: [Dinner] 15,000 JPY / [Lunch] 6,000 JPY
Access: 122m from Yui Rail Omoromachi Station, 3-minute walk
Address: 1-2-14, Makabi, Naha-shi, Okinawa Map
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14. Steak House Nakama

14. Steak House Nakama
Top 15 Restaurants in Okinawa as Recommended by Top Japanese Chefs
Visitors can relish an array of meats and steak cuts in a relaxed ambiance at this restaurant. The signature Agu Roast Pork dish, featuring locally sourced meat, is noted for its rich umami flavor, slight sweetness, and succulent juiciness. The restaurant's staff, with their friendly service and warm smiles, are dedicated to creating a welcoming atmosphere. A delightful dining experience is assured for both locals and tourists in Okinawa when they opt to dine here.

Steak House Nakama

Open: [Weekdays, Saturday, Sunday, Holidays] 17:00-24:00 (last order 23:00)
Closed: None
Average price: [Dinner] 3,000 JPY
Access: Exit Okinawa Highway at the Kyoda Interchange. 7 minutes by car from Kyoda Interchange along National Route 58, and 70 minutes by car from Naha Airport.
Address: 2247-1 Aza Nakama , Onnason, Kunigami-gun, Okinawa Map
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15. THE TACORICE HOUSE

15. THE TACORICE HOUSE
Top 15 Restaurants in Okinawa as Recommended by Top Japanese Chefs
"Just minutes from Yui Rail Makishi Station and near Kokusai-dori Yatai Mura, THE TACORICE HOUSE has opened its first physical store, following its success as a popular delivery chain. The restaurant offers an extensive range of authentic taco rice, with flavors from spicy taco meat to a Japanese twist of butter and soy sauce. The ""Half & Half Taco Rice"" delivers two flavors in one dish. The flavor profiles owe to the handmade taco meat and salsa sauce. Patrons can customize their toppings, including house-made soki. With a broad selection of drinks, including alcoholic beverages, it caters to any occasion.

THE TACORICE HOUSE

Open: [Weekdays, Saturday, Sunday, National Holidays] 10:30 am - 8:30 pm
Closed: Irregular
Average price: [Dinner] 1,200 JPY
Access: From Makishi Station, walk in the direction of the prefectural office. Turn left at the sign for Ryugu Street, cross Yatai Mura, and turn right at the first intersection.
Address: 101, M's road makishi, 3-11-12, Makishi, Naha-shi, Okinawa Map
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16. EL Patio

EL Patio cuisine
Best Restaurants in Okinawa: Top 15 Picks as Recommended by Top Japanese Chefs
EL Patio, a 7-minute walk from Asahibashi Station, is a bar that feels like a quiet hideaway. We recommend the "Tapas Platter" where you can choose from 3, 5, or 8 types depending on the number of people. You can enjoy it with the natural wines available in about 14 types by the bottle and about 8 types by the glass. There is a stone oven installed in the store, and the authentic pizza baked in that stone oven is a must-try menu item. Pizzas made from individual pieces of dough, such as "Margherita" and "4 Cheese Pizza", are popular. In addition to spacious counter seats, there are couple seats and table seats, so you can relax and enjoy your meal.

EL Patio

Open: [Monday, Wednesday-Friday, National Holidays, Day Before National Holidays] Dinner 5:00 pm - 1:00 am (L.O.11:30 pm), [Saturday, Sunday] Dinner 3:00 pm - 1:00 am (L.O. 11:30 pm)
Closed: Tuesday
Average price: [Dinner] 3,000 JPY
Access: 7-minute walk from Asahibashi Station on Okinawa Urban Monorail
Address: 1F, 2-4-2, Izumizaki, Naha-shi, Okinawa Map
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17. PIZZAHOUSE

PIZZAHOUSE cuisine
PIZZAHOUSE floor
PIZZAHOUSE, located in Urasoe City, is an Italian restaurant founded in 1958. "Special Roast Beef'', which has been loved since its establishment, is a must-try dish. "Naturally prepared homemade Agu pork ham'' made with fatty Agu pork and Okinawan salt goes perfectly with wine or dry sake. This is an exquisite product that has been aged for 24 months in a dedicated dry room in Yatsugatake, Nagano. The restaurant has an elegant interior, with comfortable sofa seats and private rooms available. There is also a bar counter where you can enjoy a wide variety of drinks.

PIZZAHOUSE

Open: [Weekdays, Saturday, Sunday, National Holidays] Lunch 11:30 am - 3:00 pm (L.O. 2:00 pm) / [Weekdays Saturday] Dinner 6:00 pm - 11:00 pm (L.O. 10:00 pm) / [Sunday National Holidays] Dinner 5:30 pm - 10:30 pm (L.O. 9:30 pm)
Closed: Tuesday
Average price: [Dinner] 6,000 JPY / [Lunch] 2,500 JPY
Access: Drive along Route 58 away from Naha towards Urasoe, turn right soon after passing Manga Soko Urasoe branch
Address: 2-20-5 Minatogawa, Urasoe city, Okinawa Map

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18. UERUMA SHIMIN SHOKUDO

UERUMA SHIMIN SHOKUDO cuisine
UERUMA SHIMIN SHOKUDO floor
Uruma Citizen's Restaurant is located inside Uru Marche, a direct sales store. You can enjoy dishes made with seasonal ingredients, mainly from Uruma City. The hamburgers and steaks made with Yamashiro beef, a Japanese black beef raised in the idyllic city of Uruma, are so delicious that you'll be addicted to them once you try them. The butter-grilled local fish caught that day is a recommended dish that fills your mouth with the flavor of fish. Don't miss the craft beer produced in-house using Shikwasa. The interior of the restraurant is spacious, bright, and clean. It's also fun to walk around and look at the ingredients produced in Okinawa at the farmers' direct sales store attached to the building.

UERUMA SHIMIN SHOKUDO

Open: [Weekdays] 11:00 am - 7:00 pm (L.O. 6:30 pm) [Saturday, Sunday, National Holidays] Lunch 11:00 am - 4:00 pm (L.O.3:15 pm) / Dinner 5:30 pm - 10:00 pm (L.O. 9:00 pm)
Closed: Irregular
Average price: -
Access: A 50-minute drive from Naha Airport or about a 20-minute drive from Okinawa Minami and Kita Interchange on Okinawa Expressway. Located in Uru Marche
Address: 183-3 Maehara, Uruma-shi, Okinawa Map
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Although most of the restaurants in the article are located in Naha, there are still a lot of restaurants on the islands of Okinawa that pride themselves on the quality of their food. Why not enjoy exploring more of them as you go sightseeing?
Disclaimer: All information is accurate at time of publication.
Update-date: May 19 2025
Author: SAVOR JAPAN

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