Because of its tropical atmosphere, Okinawa has become a popular destination for tourists both from Japan and abroad. The island is also home to a lot of attractions, as well as a plethora of gastronomic destinations. This article will feature the top 15 restaurants in Okinawa as recommended by top Japanese chefs. If you are heading to Okinawa but not sure where to go, this might help you decide.
1. MOSS okinawa
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:
MondayAverage price:
[Dinner] 12,000 JPY / [Lunch] 7,000 JPYAccess:
1-minute walk from Miebashi Station on Yui Rail LineAddress:
Hotel Strata Naha, 1-19-8, Makishi, Naha-shi, Okinawa MapMore Details Reservation 2. Ristorante CROSS 47
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:
TuesdayAverage price:
[Dinner] 7,000 JPYAccess:
3-minute walk after getting off at Yui Rail Asato StationAddress:
1F, 2-4-7, Asato, Naha-shi, Okinawa MapMore Details Reservation 3. Agu Tonkatsu Coshon Ukishima-dori branch
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:
NoneAverage price:
[Dinner] 1,500 JPY / [Lunch] 1,000 JPYAccess:
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 MapMore Details Reservation
4. Izakaya Marusa Main branch
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 amClosed:
IrregularAverage price:
[Dinner] 4,000 JPYAccess:
150 meters from Art Hotel IshigakiAddress:
503-1 Ishigaki, Ishigaki city, Okinawa MapMore Details Reservation
5. Sumibi Yakitori BOND
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 JPYAccess:
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 MapMore Details Reservation
6. 37 Steakhouse & Bar Naha
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:
NoneAverage price:
[Dinner] 7,000 JPY / [Lunch] 2,000 JPYAccess:
On the first floor in Hotel Blossom NahaAddress:
1F, Blossom Naha, 2-16-1, Makishi, Naha-shi, Okinawa MapMore Details Reservation 7.Restaurant Sunpeer
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:
NoneAverage price:
[Dinner] 3,300 JPY / [Lunch] 2,350 JPYAccess:
Around 40 minutes by car from Naha Airport on the Naha Airport prefectural routeAddress:
1688, Sashikishinzato, Nanjo-shi, Okinawa MapMore Details Reservation 8. Shunsengyo to Sumibiyaki Yukari
Yukari, a Naha-based izakaya, specializes in seasonal fresh fish and charcoal grilling. Known for always stocking bluefin tuna, they offer dishes like "Charcoal Grilled Kamatoro" and various sashimi. They also provide sake pairings, sourcing from across Japan to complement their dishes. The restaurant's modern yet nostalgic atmosphere is enhanced by Jazz and Oldies tunes. Attention to detail extends to dishware, glasses, and chopstick rests, matching the interior design. It's an ideal venue for enjoying quality meals with close friends.
Shunsengyo to Sumibiyaki Yukari
Open:
6:00 pm - 12:00 am (L.O. 11:30 pm)Closed:
IrregularAverage price:
[Dinner] 5,000 JPYAccess:
From Prefectural Office Station on the Yui Rail, head towards the Kumoji intersection, go past 4°C and make the first left turnAddress:
2F, KY Corpo, 2-4-7, Kume, Naha-shi, Okinawa MapMore Details Reservation 9. Echizen
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:
NoneAverage price:
[Dinner] 15,000 JPYAccess:
After getting off at Omoromachi Station on the Yui Rail Line, 6 minutes walkAddress:
1F, Omoro City Court GINOZA, 4-11-1, Omoromachi, Naha-shi, Okinawa MapMore Details Reservation 10. STEAK HIKARU
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:
SundayAverage price:
[Dinner] 1,000 JPYAccess:
1 minute walk from the Matsuyama Intersection/ 389 meters away from Miebashi StationAddress:
1F, Marumitsu Bldg., 2-8-7, Matsuyama, Naha-shi, Okinawa MapMore Details Reservation 11. Heaven's Truck
Heaven's Truck on Miyako Island, a popular resort destination in Okinawa, offers a memorable dining experience. The restaurant has a Tiffany Blue interior, terrace seating, and comfortable sofas, creating a unique atmosphere. The menu, packed with Okinawan charm, features classics like Taco Rice and Garlic Shrimp, as well as original dishes like "Omu-Taco Rice" and "Agu Noodles" made with local ingredients. Tropical-inspired sangrias and fresh fruit cocktails are also available. Ideal for families, friends on a trip, or dates, Heaven's Truck is a must-visit for anyone looking to fully enjoy Okinawa.
Heaven's Truck
Open:
11:00 am - 11:00 pm (L.O. 10:00 pm)Closed:
IrregularAverage price:
[Dinner] 5,000 JPYAccess:
5-minute drive from Shimojishima AirportAddress:
1443, Nagahama, Irabu, Miyakojima-shi, Okinawa MapMore Details Reservation 12. Mahoroba Irori Okinawa Branch
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:
WednesdayAverage price:
[Dinner] 15,000 JPY / [Lunch] 6,000 JPYAccess:
122m from Yui Rail Omoromachi Station, 3-minute walkAddress:
1-2-14, Makabi, Naha-shi, Okinawa MapMore Details Reservation 13. Steak House Nakama
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:
NoneAverage price:
[Dinner] 3,000 JPYAccess:
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 MapMore Details Reservation
14. THE TACORICE HOUSE
"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 pmClosed:
IrregularAverage price:
[Dinner] 1,200 JPYAccess:
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 MapMore Details Reservation 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.