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48 Best Okinawa Restaurants & Cafes (2023)

Okinawa Hai

Updated on August 8th, 2022 by Okinawa Hai

1. Burger Wolf

If you are looking for the best burger on island, look no further. Burger Wolf packs a HUGE punch when it comes to the quality of meat and bun. From their large Wolf Burger to their popular Avocado Burger, you will walk away happy and full. Bring the kids along because they have a clean and spacious kid’s area, along with a kid-friendly meal option. They also offer amazing private party options and with activities like karaoke, pool, and an open bar you are sure to have a good time.

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2. Sushi-Go-Round Ichibantei

The restaurant is tucked back in American Village, near the Hilton Hotel. The prepared sushi comes out on a conveyor belt, but you are also able to order your preferred sushi. Charging by the color of your plate, this is the perfect place to splurge or to eat on a budget. Many recommend their seared salmon roll along with kid-friendly chicken nuggets!

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3. Bollywood

Some would say the best Indian curry on island, this restaurant offers two different locations for your dining needs. Known for their “head size” naan bread and their many different types of curry, this is a must-stop in the American Village area. They also offer vegetarian and vegan dishes.

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4. Donald’s Poke Shop

Come for the Poke, stay for the amazing service. Specializing in Hawaiian style Poke, this quaint restaurant is a fan favorite amongst the American stationed in Okinawa. This is a small shop, but they are also know for their take out and local deliveries. Check out their Facebook Page to get the update on delivery times as well as take-out options.

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5. Stripes Noodle

Known for their Steak Ramen and their dumplings, this restaurant is a must stop if you are in the Chatan area. Order using the user friendly machine and enjoy a very reasonably priced, amazing meal. They are also know for being Vegetarian and Vegan friendly options.

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6. Noopy’s Noodle Bar

In the states we would describe this joint as a “hole in the wall” but others may call it a great find along the seawall. Known for their yakisoba and dumplings, you will be happy you stumbled upon this small and friendly restaurant. Definitely a bar atmosphere later in the evening, but the food is top-notch.

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7. Sushi on La Cienega

Another date night favorite this restaurant is known for their amazing service and exceptional display. The price is a bit high for the area, but every person who comments says that it is well worth the price tag. They have fabulous “American Style” rolls as well as classic Japanese sushi. This place will have you saying Oishii with a BIG smile on your face at the end of the meal. Kid-friendly in the early hours but definitely a popular date night spot.

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8. Pizza in the Sky

Earning its name from the amazing open-air dining and spectacular views, this restaurant is one of the most popular stops up north. Boasting some of the best pizza on island, this is a must-stop after you visit the aquarium. It won’t be the traditional pepperoni and sausage but think ingredients like corn, pork, and veggies. Many people love the salad, saying it has tons of fresh vegetables and Asian salad dressing to die for. The wait can be rather long, they do offer games to keep you entertained during the wait, so either get there early or aim for non-traditional times to eat.

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9. Aridoi Thai

Located near Rycom Mall this cute restaurant offers HUGE portions and amazingly good Thai food. Open for both lunch and dinner, also take out, you are sure to find your favorite dish here whether that drunken noodles or Pad Thai! With a name that is translated to Delicious in English, you know you will be in for treat with this one.

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10. Kozy’s Pizza

Kozy’s Pizza is a family favorite, considering they have two rooms filled with toys and tables to make eating as a family a pleasant experience. The pizza is also spectacular. The German Special Pizza (topped with onions, potatoes and corn) is a personal favorite along with their traditional Artigiano pizza are both must tries. Their wings and kid friendly Cheese Sticks are worth a try as well. Make sure to visit during sunset hours, as the view is amazing!

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11. Ajitoya – Okinawa Brown Sugar Curry

Offering a few cafes around the island, make sure to find the one closest to you on their website. Regardless of which one you choose, all will make you fall in love with their famous Okinawa brown sugar curry. The Tofu/Vegetable Soup Curry (or Yushi Dofu) is perfect for your vegetarian friends, they us local Okinawan tofu and a ton of veggies. while their signatureGrilled Chicken Curry is perfect for the meat lovers in your life. Stop by and make sure to try their naan, they put a different spin on the Indian naan and you won’t regret the extra calories!

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12. Transit Cafe

An island date night spot, this pick is sure to impress your special someone. They offer patio seating and boast a menu filled with fun drink options and an array of food. It is right on the seawall, the view is gorgeous but parking can be a bit of a pain. Make sure to park legally to avoid a ticket or towing. Reservations are encouraged!

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13. Love Organics & Birthcafe

Known for their vegan friendly options, Green Leaf is a must stop if you enjoy the healthier lifestyle. They offer many types of smoothies Acai bowls, something for everyone.

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14. Garyu-Ya 鶏だし工房

Tsukemen Ramen is a Japanese dish that has cold noodles which are dipped into a the hot broth and Garyu-ya is the place to go to experience this amazing dish. Offering tsukemen as well as traditional ramen, this restaurant is truly an amazing find. Their dinner lunch sets are huge and priced well, you will not leave hungry! Their fried chicken is offered in every set and has such an amazing taste. Just make sure to park in their designated spots across the street and you are sure to have a good time!

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15. Green Mama

This cute cafe, hidden in the neighborhoods of Tengan, offer a beautiful escape from the city. They offer lunch sets with large portions, as well as the typical finds like pizza and juice! They have a small kid play area, along with a kid’s menu making this the perfect stop to make with the little ones. They are not open on the weekends, open only Tuesday-Friday, but definitely worth a visit!

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16. Roll Up

Craving a burrito while you visit the island? This place is just for you. Mainly a take out restaurant, this restaurant along the Sunabe seawall is hugely popular among the Americans on the island, claiming it is the closest thing to authentic out here. You build your own burrito, adding whatever you like, some are partial to chicken some to steak but whatever you decide this stop is a necessity!

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17. Ark Cafe

Overlooking the Motobu Peninsula is perhaps the cutest and most delicious ice cream shop in all of Okinawa. A bit of a drive and some would say tricky to find, this cafe offers a 360° view of Nago. Driving up you will notice the lush grounds and the outstanding architecture, unlike any other cafe on the island. Ark Cafe also offers food options, but they are known for their homemade ice cream and ambiance. If you are up north, this cafe needs to be on your list.

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18. Little Greek kitchen

This small restaurant is hands down one of the best restaurants on the island. The menu is ever-changing but specializes in Greek and Mediterranean cuisine. While there make sure to grab some of the house-made feta, you will not be disappointed. Make sure to check their Facebook page for reservations and updates on hours and availability.

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19. Yakiniku Goen

Offering a few different locations around Okinawa, this restaurant is a popular Yakiniku joint. They do all you can eat pricing ranging from 2500 to 3500 and are quick to bring the food to your table. Kid friendly, as well as date friendly, this is a must stop for large parties or family dinners.

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20. Khrua Thai

A favorite among the GI’s stationed near Camp Courtney in Uruma, this super family friendly Thai restaurant makes the list easily. Sure, there are a few other Thai options but this one will make you feel right at home as they serve up their fresh thai tea. Good portion sizes and a lower cost option, you will want to make sure to make time for this favorite!

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21. Coffee Casa

Offering Italian Espresso this cafe in Sunabe is sure to put some pep in your step! Definitely a popular stop for the Americans both living and visiting the Sunabe area, this cafe offers fresh bread, treats and some great food options. A friendly staff and a cozy atmosphere makes this cafe a favorite in the area.

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22. WaGyu-Cafe Kapuka

Fancy a spectacular ocean views paired with a salad so pretty you could Instagram it? This cafe is just the place for you. Known for their salad bowl featuring a flower avocado, this find is a popular one but worth a trip to American Village for sure. Plenty of outdoor seating, lots of instagrammable moments and has an opening time of 9:00, which is hard to come by for this area of the island.

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23. Cafe Bree Garden

A gorgeous find near the Peace Prayer Park, this cafe is set in a lush garden and offers some great home cooked meals made fresh from their garden. The beautiful views from the patio are what make this cafe worth the drive, but their fresh salad is also a highlight for most visitors! Definitely worth a trip if you near Itomen for the day.

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24. Good Day Coffee

Offering the best breaky in Sunabe, this hidden gem offers a comfortable and delightful option. Their avocado toast is delicious and some have said their french toast is one of the best on the island! Offering many coffee drinks, along with hot chocolate and juice, this beachy cafe should be on your list of must visit!

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25. Dress Diner – Grand Mer Resort

While you won’t see too many buffets on this list, this choice is a must include. Offering a very affordable all you can eat options, as well as all you can drink options, this buffet is known for their crab selections (offered only M-F) and their assortment of desserts. Reservations are available online, making it easy to plan and visit. Come for the view, stay for the food!

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26. Pizzeria Bella Napoli

Located right on the seawall, on the third floor is one of the best pizzerias (and views) on the island. Known for their Napoli Days (10th, 20th and 30th of the month) where they offer ¥1,000 pizzas. It can get very crowded on those days so make sure to arrive early. While you will find some of the local favorites, corn on pizza anyone? They also offer many different types of pizzas and salads.

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27. Five Star Deli

When you think of Okinawa you do not really think of deli sandwiches, but Five Star Deli is here to show you that the two in fact do mix! Their Philly Cheese Steak is one of the more popular items on the menu, but the reuben is also a fan favorite. The sides are also well done, including their fries very yummy potato salad. It is a must try if you are in the Sunabe area during your stay in Okinawa.

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28. A Danian Cafe

Their soup curry is good enough to get you hooked for life. Located in old military housing this cafe has indoor seating and offers a great vibe. Their pancakes are also quite good but they are definitely known for their Sapporo Soup Curry, offering vegetarian and chicken options. This is a must stop in our opinion and you will be very happy with the decision!

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29. Bamboo Cafe

Offering up some of the best jerk chicken on the island this restaurant offers two locations to visit. Their jerk chicken sandwich features the chicken as well as a personal side of festival donuts, and trust us when we say you need to save room for those. A friendly staff and a homey feel, we can’t recommend this restaurant enough.

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30. Lanai Cafe

Located within Rycom Mall, outside near Starbucks, this restaurant is a great find. Come for the pancakes but make sure to try the burgers too! Everything on the menu is amazing, but they are 100% known for their pancakes. Also, one of the only places to grab a Kona Beer on island if you are craving a bit of an Hawaiian taste. This place is popular so take an afternoon break from shopping or get there early.

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31. Bar Flex

Their house sauce will be something you remember for a long time after visiting this beachside restaurant. Offering everything from taco rice to a jerk kitchen platter, this restaurant has it all. Family dining during the early hours and turning into a bar/date night spot this restaurant is a must stop when near Araha Beach.

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32. Sandbox Burgers

Their truffle mushroom burger is a fan favorite along with their popular Lamb Burger, some would say that Sandbox has one of the best burgers on island. While this restaurant is kid friendly, be aware that it does turn into a bar atmosphere later in the evening so opt for lunch time dining or early dinner if you plan to visit with the kids.

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33. Kouri Island Shrimp Truck

Serving up the tastes of Hawaii out on Kouri Island is the famous shrimp wagon. Known for their garlic shrimp plate, make sure to come hungry and patient as this famous spot is usually very busy! There is a gorgeous view of the Kouri Bridge and plenty of outdoor seating available. This makes for a fun afternoon visit to one of Okinawa’s most famous islands.

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34. Homabe no Chaya

This open air cafe has light dishes, beer and an amazing view that will have you falling in love with Okinawa all over again. This spot is very popular and can cause wait times to be high, but with it being right in front of the beach, there is plenty to enjoy while you wait. Recommended for small meals or dessert only, they are known for their cheesecake and veggie sandwich!

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35. Prison Cafe

Doubling as both a hostel and restaurant this themed cafe is a must visit while in Okinawa. Dress up as a prisoner, get assigned a level of crime and get fed based on how bad of a criminal you really are! There is a fee of ¥500 per person to dine, but with the fun theme and concept it is well worth it! They do offer a kid’s plate but the restaurant itself, but later hours are definitely more of a bar feel.

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36. Hanasango

This restaurant is located within a private garden and is hands down one of the most beautiful places to visit! A bit on the pricey side but many claim that this is the best meal to be eaten on island. The local fish is a fan favorite as is the cakes that can be specially ordered for any event. The garden itself is free to visit, you do not need to eat at the cafe to enjoy the amazing flowers and goats that call this place home.

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37. Anettai Chaya Hammock Garden

This restaurant is located right next to Pizza in the Sky and is such a fun stop! They don’t offer a large menu but many comment on everything being very good and freshly made. The french toast is a fan favorite as are the homemade juices. There is plenty of seating outside and a few tables inside. Just like it’s neighbor this cafe gets busy fast, so expect wait times!

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38. Sam’s By The Sea – Awase

There are a few different locations throughout the island but the Awase branch offers the perfect date night location and is one of the best known places to grab a big steak and lobster dinner. The drinks are all fun and tropical, with a few of them offering take home glasses for the best kind of souvenir. While it can be seen as a bit of a tourist trap, you won’t be disappointed by the service, the food and the ambience.

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39. Kameya Ramen

Known for their tomato ramen this restaurant offers the perfect mix of spice and fun and is a quick stop when you have a ramen craving. Their gyoza is also a fan favorite, along with their ice cold beers on tap. Take out is available too, which is convenient and easy.

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40. Jakkepoes

Opening in 2008, their claim to fame is that they were the first cafe to specialize in pancakes, which we are happy to believe based on their popularity alone! The fluffiest pancakes can be found here during breakfast and the family friendly ambience makes it a favorite amongst locals and tourists. Make sure to try their one of a kind Chili Bean Pancakes, you may be surprised at how much you like them!

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41. Cafe and Bar Hapi Tapi

SUPER popular so make sure you get there early to beat the rush, but this insta worthy shop will knock your snorkel gear off with their yummy bubble teas! They don’t offer a huge menu, mainly taco rice, but their drink menu is worth the drive and the visit.

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42. 808 Poke Bowls

Located in Manzamo along route 58, this poke shop is a must stop if you are up exploring the beautiful beaches in Onna San. The freshest Poke on island and their Acai bowls happen to be a favorite too. Make sure to add this cafe to your “Must Try” list. Make sure to check their Facebook as they update daily when they run out of food, a common occurrence among the smaller cafes in Okinawa.

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43. CC’s Chicken and Waffles

Chicken and Waffles may not be something you would expect in Okinawa but be prepared to be blown away by this cafe down on the seawall. Of course they are famous for their fried chicken and waffle meal, but their Chicken Fried Steak will also leave your belly happy! They have a smaller location that does take away, but their main eat in location is in Sunabe on the seawall.

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44. La Polleria Pipeline Coffee

Located within an old antique shop, this little coffee house is 100% instagrammable and a must stop if you are in the Ginowan area. La Polleria is the restaurant side and you may be surprised to know that it boasts a Mexican vibe, offering Tacos El Pastor as well as breakfast burritos. If take out is your thing, rest assured because they offer it. Whether you opt for an iced latte or a dish, you will leave a happy customer!

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45. Cafe Doka Doka

Overlooking the ocean in Onna San is the most magnificent and peaceful little place, Cafe Doka Doka.Offering one of a kind pottery in their store and some of the best pizza on the island, this cafe is a gorgeous stop to add to your list. Come for the pizza, stay for the view and a slice of their cheesecake.

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46. Ichiran Ramen

Known for their Tonkotsu Ramen, Tonkatsu meaning “pork bones”, this restaurant near Kokusai Dori Street is a must stop for ramen lovers. Offering the one type of ramen, Tonkatsu, they do offer other ways to specialize your bowl such as noodle softness and extra garlic. Highly popular, with locations all over Japan, this location is the only one here in Okinawa and with their one of a kind ramen it makes it a lively place.

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47. Maverick Burger

This up and coming Naha located burger joint is a favorite amongst the restaurants located in the southern portion of the island. Offering burgers such as the Bacon, Egg and Cheese or the Avocado Bacon Cheeseburger, you are sure to find one that is perfectly cooked and served up for you. The owner originally thought to open a bar, so they also offer a wide selection of great drinks, making this a true one stop shop!

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48. Curry House CoCo Ichibanya

You know that Coco’s HAD to make this list somewhere and here it is. Offering what some would say is the best curry in the world, this chain is a must stop and driving around Okinawa you will find many different locations to try. You are able to customize the rice portions, spice level and toppings, all while enjoying their signature curry flavor. What is one of the biggest things Americans miss when they leave this beautiful island? Coco’s Curry!

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