Top American-Friendly Restaurants in Okinawa, Japan

CoCo Ichibanya

Every U.S. citizen on the island gives rave reviews for this Japanese curry house chain. The fragrant rice (which can be ordered in varying quantities between 200 and 600 or more grams), rich curry sauce, variety of meat and vegetarian options, and 10 levels of spiciness make it a distinctive and enjoyable choice.

A word about the spice levels, which have given birth to more than one "spice competition" and as many cases of indigestion in overeager spice afficionados: For 20, 40, 60, 80, or 100 yen, you can boost the base heat of the house curry. Spice Level 3 is said to be "the standard of truly spicy hot curry." At Spice Level 5, the diner is warned to "consider the consequences." At the other end of the spectrum, CoCo also offers a Mild Flavor "for children or people not accustomed to spicy foods." A complete list of spice options is to be found at the back of the menu.

The restaurant also features ambrosial naan, a fluffy and tender variation on the more traditional Indian variety. Although the fried chicken cutlet is a popular curry choice for most Americans, the cuttlefish is a delicious alternative and not to be missed. Be sure to browse CoCo's online menu for a few minutes to get a better idea of their offerings.

The chain has several Okinawa locations. Prices are under 1000 yen for an entree.

Ichibantei

Another favorite among island-dwelling Yankees, this nationwide noodle chain offers delicious ramen in every variety. The most popular is the slightly spicy and flavorful tantan-mei, which can be ordered mild or spicier. The menu is somewhat reminiscent of pho, and those familiar with the Vietnamese cuisine will be most comfortable dining here.

Be warned: The portions are gargantuan. I've seen grown men walk away groaning from a half-empty bowl twice the size of their own heads. Think twice before ordering the set, as a combination meal is known here.

You may choose toppings (such as pork, corn, and egg) a la carte, and prices are generally under 1000 yen per person. There are several Okinawa locations for this restaurant chain, including branches in Chatan Town, Okinawa City, Naha, and Nago.

Yoshi Hachi

The wall behind the sushi bar is adorned with parrotfish fins, and you can't miss the fanged snake heads floating in the clear glass vats of habu awamori. But feast your eyes (and more gastronomically relevant organs) on the gorgeous masses of fresh, succulent tuna, and you'll immediately understand how culinarily impoverished we are as Americans when it comes to sushi.

In addition to the fins and perpetually pickled habu, the restaurant is plastered with photos of Japanese and American celebrities who've visited and loved the restaurant and its charming owner, Yoshio Maekawa. Be sure to sit at the bar and chat with the him as he prepares your sushi and sashimi, and definitely ask for the day's recommendations.

Although the mouthwatering tuna is beyond compare, don't skip the blowfish sashimi or the fried squid, which is as rich and delectable as the best Southern fried chicken you've ever tasted. If your experience in Southern fried chicken is shallow, just know that the fried squid will delight you in ways you never expected.

The restaurant is located in Chatan Town, and prices are comparable to what one finds at good American sushi bars.

Kitakaisen

If you've got a group of more than four people or can't decide what kind of cuisine to try, you may be best advised to head to this large and popular izakaya. The menu has an impressive and almost inexplicable range that includes sushi and sashimi, yakitori, yakisoba, and even some variations on non-Japanese foods such as French fries, pizza, and enchiladas. Truly, there's something for everyone.

As at most izakayas, food is ordered and served in a small plate dining format, with large dishes shared among several people. As a dual drinking and eating establishment, the restaurant also boasts of serving more than 50 kinds of beverages and has a party room that can accomodate up to 64 people for karaoke.

The restaurant is located above the Chatan Sports Center near Kadena Air Base. Prices vary per person for family-style dining, but they can range between 800 and 1500 yen per person.

Good luck in your culinary adventures, and have fun exploring Okinawa!