4 Recommended Gourmet Spots in Izena Island! Enjoy the Authentic Taste of Fresh Ingredients

Izena Island is a beautiful island surrounded by the blue sea, located about 30 km north of Nakijin Village in the northwestern part of Okinawa’s main island. The island boasts stunning white sandy beaches, red-tiled roofs, coral stone walls, Fukugi tree-lined paths, and Ryukyu pines, making it a charming tourist destination. To reach Izena Island, take a ferry from Unten Port in Nakijin Village, which takes about an hour. Visitors are warmly welcomed by the island's friendly locals and their simple yet heartfelt hospitality, providing a soothing experience. In this article, we introduce some of the best gourmet spots on Izena Island.

1. A Well-Known Gourmet Spot: "Ajisai Teruteru"

"Ajisai Teruteru" is a famous dining spot known for its simple yet delicious local flavors. Located inside the Nakada Port Terminal, it is well-known not only among the island's residents but also among visitors arriving by ferry. The restaurant doesn't focus on elaborate luxury dishes but instead offers simple meals made with fresh ingredients unique to Izena Island. Despite the reasonable prices, the food is truly delicious.
The most popular dish is the island fish fry set meal, made with freshly caught fish. It’s a hearty portion, and many tourists find themselves returning multiple times during their stay on Izena Island. The locally sourced mozuku seaweed is also a must-try. In the evening, the restaurant becomes lively with people enjoying its affordable appetizer sets, making it a bustling gourmet spot.

2. Exceptional Goat Soup at "Rest House Kamiyama"

"Rest House Kamiyama" is a restaurant where you can enjoy fresh, locally sourced ingredients. The soba made with Izena Island’s mozuku seaweed is popular, but the standout dishes are the authentic Soki Soba and Goat Soup.
The goat meat is carefully prepared, eliminating the need for ginger to mask any strong odors. The soup, packed with goat meat, organs, and even the skin, is truly exceptional. Many restaurants serving goat soup have a strong, distinctive smell upon entering, but this place is different. Even goat soup enthusiasts recognize it as a must-visit gourmet spot.

3. Enjoy Izena Island’s Locally Grown Rice at "Taiyo Shokudo"

"Taiyo Shokudo" is a well-known gourmet spot featuring "Taiyo Men," a noodle dish made from Izena Island’s locally grown rice. While Vietnamese pho is a well-known rice noodle dish, Taiyo Men is firmer and more satisfying. It can be enjoyed with meat miso to highlight its chewy texture, or in a soup for a smooth, slurpable experience. There’s also a dipping noodle option with a pleasantly chewy bite.
The light fish-based broth is so delicious that you’ll want to drink every last drop, making it a perfect choice even on hot summer days when your appetite is low. There are various menu options, including a peperoncino-style dish, making it one of Izena Island’s most famous gourmet spots.
Since the noodles are gluten-free and allergen-free, those who cannot eat wheat can enjoy them with peace of mind. For dessert, try the rice pudding with a soft, chewy texture and a gentle brown sugar sweetness. Takeout is also available.

4. A Must-Visit for Sweets Lovers: "Kashi no Shima Kamiyama"

"Kashi no Shima Kamiyama" is the only cake specialty shop on Izena Island, making it a must-visit for those who love bread and sweets. It operates in the same building as "Rest House Kamiyama," a restaurant offering local cuisine. The cozy interior has just two table seats and four counter seats, with a high wooden ceiling that gives it a warm, inviting atmosphere.
Since there are no pastry shops on the neighboring Iheya Island, some customers even take a boat to buy sweets here. The shop is a paradise for dessert lovers, offering over ten types of cakes, including fresh fruit shortcakes made with seasonal fruits.
A recommended souvenir is the "Kongari Shima no Takaramono," a peanut-based treat coated with hibiscus, molokhia, and turmeric powder. It is well-loved not just for its delicious taste but also for its generous portion and reasonable price.

◎ Summary

Izena Island’s gourmet spots allow visitors to experience the island’s rich nature and the warmth of its people while enjoying simple yet deep flavors. From freshly caught island fish to exquisite goat soup and Izena-style Soki Soba, the flavors are distinct from those on Okinawa’s main island. Izena Island’s gourmet spots offer an authentic taste experience that food lovers won’t want to miss!

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