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
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:
NoneAverage price:
[Dinner] 6,000 JPYAccess:
5-minute walk from Makishi Station / 10-minute walk from Asato StationAddress:
2F, Asato Bldg., 1-3-3, Asato, Naha-shi, Okinawa MapMore Details Reservation 2. Umi no Maho Restaurant Magic Ocean
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:
IrregularAverage price:
[Dinner] 3,500 JPYAccess:
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 MapMore Details Reservation 3. Shabu Shabu Kumeya
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:
SundayAverage price:
[Dinner] 9,000 JPYAccess:
7-minute walk from Asahibashi Station / 7-minute walk from Prefectural Office StationAddress:
1F, Maison Kume, 2-11-1, Kume, Naha-shi, Okinawa MapMore Details Reservation 4. 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 5. 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 6. 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 7. 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 8. 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 9. 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 10.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 11. 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 12. 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 13. 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 14. 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 15. 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 16. EL Patio
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:
TuesdayAverage price:
[Dinner] 3,000 JPYAccess:
7-minute walk from Asahibashi Station on Okinawa Urban MonorailAddress:
1F, 2-4-2, Izumizaki, Naha-shi, Okinawa MapMore Details Reservation 17. PIZZAHOUSE
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:
TuesdayAverage price:
[Dinner] 6,000 JPY / [Lunch] 2,500 JPYAccess:
Drive along Route 58 away from Naha towards Urasoe, turn right soon after passing Manga Soko Urasoe branchAddress:
2-20-5 Minatogawa, Urasoe city, Okinawa Map
More Details Reservation 18. UERUMA SHIMIN SHOKUDO
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:
IrregularAverage 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 MarcheAddress:
183-3 Maehara, Uruma-shi, Okinawa MapMore Details 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.