13 recommended gourmet spots to eat around Okinawa Churaumi Aquarium

Located on the 4th floor of Churaumi Aquarium, Restaurant Ino offers a delightful buffet experience with breathtaking views of the East China Sea. Even if you're not visiting the aquarium, you're welcome to dine here and soak up the stunning coastal scenery.

As soon as you step inside, you'll be greeted by panoramic windows that frame the vast ocean. The coveted window-side seats offer unparalleled views of the sea, making it a popular choice among diners.

Restaurant Ino's buffet showcases the best of Okinawan cuisine, featuring a delectable array of dishes made with local ingredients. From vibrant purple sweet potato tempura and savory stir-fried dishes like champuru to tender rafute (braised pork belly) and juushii (steamed rice with pork), there's something to satisfy every palate. Traditional Okinawan favorites like mozuku seaweed salad are also on the menu, alongside classic buffet staples like salads, curry, fried chicken, and fries. To top off your meal, indulge in sweet treats like sata andagi (Okinawan doughnuts).

Did you know that the name "Ino" means "a shallow, calm sea surrounded by coral reefs"? It's the perfect name for a restaurant offering breathtaking ocean views while serving up delicious Okinawan fare.

2. Pizza Cafe Kajinho

With its striking red tile roof, the charming old house cafe, Kajin Hou, has become a popular destination for pizza lovers. Frequently featured in the media, this eatery is always buzzing with activity, often with a line out the door. Both tourists and locals flock to this cozy spot, making it a favorite among regulars.

Step inside and you'll be greeted by a warm and inviting atmosphere, complete with traditional tatami seating, tables, and a spacious veranda. On sunny days, be sure to request a seat on the veranda to enjoy stunning panoramic views of the East China Sea. While you wait for your table, take a leisurely stroll through the garden and soak up the beautiful scenery.

The star of the show at Kajin Hou is undoubtedly the pizza, made with water sourced from the Daikokuryodo spring. Every detail, from the ingredients to the presentation, reflects the owner's passion for creating a truly special dining experience. The 30-centimeter pizzas are loaded with toppings and feature a perfectly crispy yet chewy crust, making them incredibly addictive. With generous portions and affordable prices, it's no wonder why people are willing to wait in line.

To complement your pizza, be sure to try the fresh acerola juice made with locally sourced fruits. This refreshing beverage is the perfect way to cleanse your palate between bites. While the menu is simple, featuring pizzas, salads, cut mangoes, and a few drink options, Kajin Hou's charm lies in its ability to consistently deliver delicious food and a memorable dining experience.

3. Drive-in Restaurant Hawaii

With its eye-catching, colorful sign, Drive-In Restaurant Hawaii is a local institution known for its generous portions of Hawaiian-inspired cuisine. One of the most popular menu items is the classic "A-lunch," a post-war Koza creation featuring a hearty plate of Western-style dishes.

The restaurant's signature A-lunch, which won the grand prize at the 1st Koza A-lunch Championship in 2011, is a true feast for the senses. This massive plate is piled high with a variety of items like tonkatsu (breaded pork cutlet), hamburger steak, shrimp fry, chicken, sausage, omelet, and spaghetti.

Beyond the iconic A-lunch, Drive-In Restaurant Hawaii offers a diverse menu that caters to all tastes. From classic Hawaiian dishes like burgers and bowls to Okinawan specialties, Japanese fare, and fresh seafood, there's something for everyone. With its casual atmosphere and spacious seating area, including tatami rooms, it's a great place to relax and enjoy a meal with family and friends.

4. Shimabukuro-san's Taco Rice

Taco rice, an Okinawan dish featuring taco ingredients served over rice, has gained popularity nationwide in recent years. With many supermarkets now carrying the necessary ingredients and sauces, it's become a household favorite. While there are countless places to enjoy taco rice in Okinawa, a visit to Motobu Town in northern Okinawa isn't complete without trying "Shimabukuro's Motobu Taco Rice."

One of their most popular offerings is the "Om-Taco Rice," a unique fusion of omelet and taco rice. The addition of a spicy kick adds depth to the dish and complements the rich flavors of the egg. Another crowd-pleaser is the "Stone-Baked Taco Rice," which boasts a crispy crust and unforgettable taste, according to many customers. Given the generous portions, it's a great option to share with friends.

5. Cafe Chahaya Bran

While the exterior of Cafe Chaya Bulan exudes the charm of a traditional Okinawan house, the interior is a delightful fusion of Asian tropical resort vibes. As you step through the lush, green entrance, you'll be greeted by a stunning view of the emerald green ocean from the outdoor terrace.

Not only is the decor a blend of Asian and Okinawan influences, but the menu also reflects this unique fusion. The signature "Asian Soba" is a creative take on Okinawan soba, inspired by Vietnamese pho. The fragrant, light chicken broth seasoned with fish sauce is sure to tantalize your taste buds.

For those craving a taste of traditional Okinawan cuisine, the "Rafute Don" is a must-try. This hearty dish features tender pork belly slow-cooked in a soy sauce and awamori (Okinawan distilled spirit) marinade, with a hint of star anise. Served with pickled takana, it's a comforting and flavorful meal.

Located just a short walk from the Bise Fukugi Tree Avenue, Cafe Chaya Bulan is the perfect place to unwind and enjoy a delicious meal. After your meal, take a leisurely stroll through the picturesque tree-lined avenue and soak up the beauty of the surrounding nature.

6. Subtropical Tea House

Opened in May 2015, Netsubai Chaya offers a serene escape into a tropical paradise. The cafe features a relaxed atmosphere, with indoor and outdoor seating areas adorned with lush greenery. One of the highlights is the secluded seating area, complete with cozy chair hammocks and bed-style hammocks, inviting guests to unwind and sway gently.

The menu features a variety of health-conscious dishes made with locally sourced ingredients. Perfect for hot days, the soy milk cold ramen is a refreshing and flavorful choice. Other popular options include the "Yanbaru Herb Chicken Gapao Rice," a fragrant dish made with an abundance of basil. The freshly baked scones are also a must-try, served warm and buttery.

Nestled on a hilltop, Netsubai Chaya boasts breathtaking panoramic views of the ocean, including the distant islands of Ie and Sesoko. The sunset is particularly stunning, creating a romantic atmosphere that is perfect for couples or anyone seeking a peaceful retreat. With its stunning scenery and delicious food, Netsubai Chaya is truly a hidden gem.

7. Cafe Restaurant La Tira

Located just a minute's drive from Churaumi Aquarium, Café Restaurant LA TILLA offers an unparalleled dining experience with stunning ocean views from every seat. As the restaurant boasts, "There's always something new to discover," with panoramic vistas of the East China Sea during the day, breathtaking sunsets, and the enchanting nighttime illuminations of the Tropical Dream Center.

Indulge in delectable cuisine while taking in the breathtaking scenery. The menu features a variety of dishes, including juicy hamburgers made with locally sourced Agu pork or Ishigaki beef, and delightful desserts like mango and sweet potato tarts. For those with hearty appetites, the beef curry featuring generous chunks of Motobu beef, a local specialty, is a must-try.

Enjoy beautifully presented Ryukyu plates or take advantage of the great value combo sets featuring cakes and drinks. In the evening, savor the romantic ambiance as you enjoy a glass of champagne or wine while admiring the breathtaking night view. With its clean and bright atmosphere, LA TILLA is also a perfect spot for a romantic date.

8. Kanasando

Kanasando is a local favorite known for its affordable and authentic Okinawan home-style dishes. Owner-caught fish simmered in a savory broth, slow-cooked tebichi (pig's trotters), and fresh sea grapes served with a special house-made sauce are just a few of the delectable offerings. The warm and inviting atmosphere, filled with locals, makes it a great place to connect with the community.

Every night, the stage in front of the restaurant comes alive with traditional Okinawan folk music. Join in on the fun as local musicians play lively tunes on the sanshin (three-stringed lute) and guests sing and dance along. You can even dress up in traditional Okinawan attire and take memorable photos.

For added convenience, Kanasando offers a free shuttle service for guests staying at hotels within Motobu Town. This ensures a safe and hassle-free experience, even after enjoying a few too many drinks.

Experience the heart and soul of Okinawa with a delightful combination of home-cooked Okinawan cuisine, local spirits, and traditional folk music.

9. Kishimoto Shokudo: Handmade Soba

Kishimoto Shokudo, a venerable noodle shop established in 1905, is so beloved among soba enthusiasts that some people even make the trip from Naha just to savor its renowned dishes. Despite offering a simple menu consisting solely of Okinawa soba (large or small) and juushii (steamed rice), the restaurant's unwavering commitment to quality shines through in every bite.

The soba noodles are made in-house and boast a delightful chewy texture. They are served in a rich, flavorful broth made with bonito dashi that complements the noodles perfectly. Topped with tender rafute (braised pork belly), the soba offers a harmonious blend of flavors and textures. The rafute, with its melt-in-your-mouth tenderness and sweet and savory glaze, is a perfect match for the savory broth. Juushii, a savory rice dish, is a limited-time offering, so be sure to arrive early to secure a bowl.

10. Arakaki Zenzai Shop

Located directly across from the renowned Kishimoto Shokudo, Arakaki Zenzaiya is a popular spot for a sweet treat after savoring a bowl of Okinawa soba. Many customers make it a tradition to visit both establishments, enjoying the contrast between the savory soba and the refreshing sweetness of the zenzai.

Upon entering, you'll need to purchase a ticket from the vending machine before taking a seat. The shop's signature and only menu item is the "Ice Zenzai." Unlike the traditional sweet red bean soup often associated with zenzai, the Okinawan version is served as a shaved ice dessert. Beneath the coarsely shaved ice, you'll find sweet, plump azuki beans simmered in brown sugar.

As the ice doesn't come with syrup, it's customary to mix it with the beans as you eat. This unique combination of shaved ice and sweet bean paste creates a delightful and refreshing treat that is both familiar and exotic. After a day spent under the Okinawa sun, a bowl of cold zenzai is the perfect way to cool down. Takeout is also available for those who want to enjoy this local delicacy at their leisure.

11. Cocco Restaurant

Nestled within the charming village of Bise, adjacent to the beautiful Fukugi Tree Avenue, you'll find Kokko Shokudō. This cozy eatery is famous for its "Jidori Kogan Soba," a delightful dish featuring a fluffy omelet and savory chicken on top of a bed of Okinawa soba noodles. The half-cooked egg, combined with the salty chicken, creates a truly unforgettable flavor.

The restaurant's signature chicken-based broth is made using a patented process, resulting in a collagen-rich soup that's perfect for those looking to nourish their skin and body. Equally popular is the "Jidori Keihin," a traditional Ryukyu dish that was once enjoyed by the royal court. This colorful dish features rice topped with chicken, omelet, vegetables, and pickles. It's served with a generous portion of the restaurant's signature collagen-rich chicken broth, allowing you to savor it as a flavorful tea-over-rice.

Given the rarity of finding "Keihin" on the island of Okinawa, many return to Kokko Shokudō specifically for this dish. With a dedicated kids' space, families can enjoy a relaxed and enjoyable dining experience. So, the next time you find yourself in Bise, be sure to stop by Kokko Shokudō and savor the delicious flavors of Okinawa.

12. Izakaya Kuebu

Izakaya Kuebu is a popular local haunt known for its fresh seafood and warm, welcoming atmosphere. Owned and operated by a passionate local, the restaurant boasts a cozy interior with wooden accents that create a relaxed and inviting ambiance. Whether you prefer a traditional table seating or a cozy sunken seating area, there's a perfect spot for everyone.

Motobu town is renowned for its tuna, and Kuebu takes full advantage of this local bounty. The restaurant features a daily changing menu of fresh catches, including a variety of sashimi options. Beyond seafood, you'll find a wide array of Okinawan dishes such as jimmami tofu (peanut tofu) and goya champuru (bitter melon stir-fry). For a truly local experience, be sure to try the "Uchinaa Chinmi 4-point Mori," a platter of four different Okinawan delicacies that pair perfectly with awamori (Okinawan rice liquor).

To complete your meal, indulge in a bowl of "Asahigani Soba." While most Okinawa soba is made with a bonito-based broth, Kuebu offers a unique twist with a crab-based broth. The miso-flavored soup is rich and flavorful yet refreshing, and each bowl is topped with an entire Asahi crab. Don't miss the chance to savor this rare delicacy.

13. Barbecue Garden Churaumi

Located within the Centurion Hotel, the closest hotel to Churaumi Aquarium, BBQ Garden Miramar offers an unparalleled barbecue experience on its open-air terrace. Imagine savoring fresh seafood and succulent meats while sipping on an ice-cold Orion beer, all with a breathtaking ocean view.

Surrounded by the beauty of the sea, this venue provides stunning panoramic vistas from every angle. As the day winds down, you'll be treated to a mesmerizing sunset that will leave you speechless. While barbecue often conjures images of casual gatherings, BBQ Garden Miramar elevates the experience to a whole new level, offering a truly unforgettable dining experience.

◎Summary

Beyond the wonders of Churaumi Aquarium, Motobu offers a unique culinary journey. Indulge in fresh seafood with ocean views, savor traditional Okinawan dishes in a cozy atmosphere, or simply relax with a cup of coffee at a charming cafe. Don't miss the chance to experience the local flavors that make Motobu so special.