Okinawa Cuisine: 6 Local Dishes You Must Try!

Chariza Leen Crudo

Last updated 20 Feb 2026

Umibudo, also known as green caviar | Photo by Hiroko Yoshii on Pexels

When people think of Japan, they usually picture sushi, ramen, and tempura. But head south to Okinawa, and you’ll experience a whole new food world. Okinawa cuisine is bold, comforting, and full of history. It’s a mix of Japanese, Chinese, and Southeast Asian flavors with island ingredients you won’t find anywhere else.

Located between mainland Japan and Taiwan, Okinawa has its own culture, language, and traditions. That includes its food. In fact, Okinawans are known for their long lives. expectancy—and many believe their diet plays a big role. Fresh vegetables, pork dishes, seaweed, and tofu are staples here.

Keep reading because we’re about to share the tasty secrets behind Okinawa’s famous long life expectancy, starting with these seven regional cuisine specialties you won’t want to miss!

1. Goya champuru (bitter melon stir-fry)

If there’s one dish that defines Okinawa cuisine, it’s goya champuru. This stir-fry mixes bitter melon (goya), tofu, egg, and pork or spam. The taste is slightly bitter but balanced by the savory flavors of the other ingredients.

Goya is packed with nutrients and is usually connected to the island’s healthy lifestyle. Champuru means “mixed,” and that’s exactly what this dish is—a perfect mix of flavors and textures. It’s simple but satisfying, and you’ll see it on menus across many Okinawan restaurants.

Where to try goya champuru:

• Churasantei: Casual, welcoming, and great for first-time Okinawan food

• Jinanbou: Popular with locals for traditional flavors

You can try local dishes like this while exploring the island with the Okinawa South & North 1-Day Bus Tour. It’s a great way to sightsee and enjoy authentic food in Okinawa along the way.

Klook Tip: First-timer? Ask for a milder version; some shops salt the goya first to soften the bite.

2. Okinawa Soba

Don’t confuse this with mainland Japanese soba. Okinawa soba uses thick wheat noodles served in a rich pork broth. It’s usually topped with slow-cooked pork belly (rafute), green onions, and pickled ginger.

This dish is warm, filling, and deeply comforting. It reflects the heart of Okinawa cuisine—simple ingredients, cooked well. It’s also one of the most popular foods in Okinawa, Japan, with options for both locals and tourists.

Where to try Okinawa soba:

• Shuri Soba: One of the most famous soba spots on the island with its handmade noodles.

• Soba ya Gon: A local eatery that serves authentic Okinawa soba (they also have an English menu!)

You’ll find Okinawa soba everywhere, from small family-run shops to some of the best Okinawa restaurants in Naha.

3. Rafute (braised pork belly)

Rafute is melt-in-your-mouth pork belly simmered in soy sauce, sugar, and awamori. It’s rich, tender, and packed with flavor. Pork is a major part of Okinawa cuisine, and rafute is one of its stars.

The slow cooking process makes the meat really soft. It’s often served during celebrations and special meals. When you explore food in Okinawa, you’ll quickly see how important pork is to the island’s culinary identity.

Where to try rafute:

• Mikasa Matsuyama: A longtime local favorite near Kokusaidori known for hearty Okinawan set meals.

• Yunangi: Great if you want to try rafute alongside other classic island dishes.

Pair this dish with sightseeing at Okinawa World, where you can enjoy cultural shows and local eats in one place.

4. Umibudo (sea grapes)

Nicknamed “green caviar,” umibudo are tiny seaweed beads that pop in your mouth. They’re fresh, salty, and fun to eat. This dish highlights Okinawa’s strong connection to the sea.

Where to try Umibudo:

• Uminochimbora (Onna Village): A seaside restaurant known for ultra-fresh seafood and generous servings of sea grapes straight from local waters. Since you’re already in Onna Village, make the most of your coastal trip and dive into the ocean yourself. Join the Onna Village diving tour and spot colorful sea slugs up close—it's a fun way to connect with the same waters that bring umibudo to your plate!

• Yunangi (Naha): A cozy local favorite near Kokusaidori where you can enjoy umibudo along with other classic Okinawa cuisine dishes in one hearty meal.

Umibudo is often served chilled with soy sauce or ponzu. It’s light and refreshing—perfect after a day at the beach. Among all the food in Okinawa, Japan, this is one of the most unique. You’ll often find umibudo in seaside Okinawa restaurants, especially in the summer months (June-August).

Klook Tip: Eat them fresh! Sea grapes lose their texture if refrigerated too long.

5. Jimami tofu (peanut tofu)

Jimami tofu is not your typical tofu. It’s made from peanuts, giving it a creamy texture and slightly sweet taste. It’s smooth, soft, and often served with a light soy-based sauce.

This dish reflects the island’s resourceful cooking style. It’s simple but unique, just like many elements of Okinawa cuisine. Locals enjoy it as an appetizer or side dish.

You can sometimes find jimami tofu at hotel buffets like the Okinawa Hot Spring Hotel buffet, where you can sample different regional dishes in one meal.

6. Agu Pork

Agu pork is a premium local breed known for its sweet flavor and tender texture. It’s often served as shabu-shabu or grilled.

Compared to regular pork, Agu has more marbling, which makes it juicy and rich. It’s a highlight of food in Okinawa and a must-try for meat lovers.

Consider booking a special experience like a sushi-making experience at Sushi Ippin Kawaji and ask about local ingredients like agu pork in seasonal menus!

Klook Tip: Reserve ahead if you want to try agu pork—it’s popular and can sell out.

FAQs about Okinawa cuisine

What food is Okinawa famous for?

Okinawa is famous for dishes like goya champuru, Okinawa soba, and rafute. The island is also known for its use of pork, tofu, and seaweed. Many people link Okinawa cuisine to the region’s high life expectancy because of its balance of fresh and hearty ingredients.

What do Japanese people use to find good restaurants?

Many Japanese people use apps like Tabelog or Google Maps to check reviews and ratings. Word of mouth is also very important. When searching for the best Okinawa restaurants, locals often look for busy places—that’s usually a good sign!

What is Okinawa most famous for?

Okinawa is famous for its beaches, coral reefs, and unique Ryukyu culture. It’s also well known for Okinawa cuisine, which stands apart from mainland Japanese food. The mix of history, nature, and food makes it a special destination.

What do Okinawans typically eat?

Okinawans typically eat rice, vegetables, tofu, seaweed, and pork. Meals are often balanced and not too heavy. Many dishes in Okinawa cuisine focus on fresh ingredients and simple cooking methods.

Savor every bite in Okinawa

Okinawa, aside from being a beach getaway, is also a food adventure waiting for you. Okinawa cuisine tells the story of the island’s culture and history with its savory pork dishes and refreshing sea grapes.

So go beyond the usual sushi and ramen and taste Okinawa’s local specialties. Explore the island through its flavors and start planning your Okinawa trip on Klook!