Rinken’s Kitchen

We all know Okinawa is known for great food. It doesn’t matter if you are in the middle of the Naha district or around the Ferris wheel in Chatan area, one thing I can guarantee is you will not run out of good restaurant choices. However, I’m sure at some point you’ve probably already noticed but, where exactly on this island paradise can you find some authentic traditional OKINAWAN food? I bring you the answer.

Rinken’s kitchen is one of the very few Okinawan restaurants on this island. Do not confuse traditional Okinawan dishes with the typical Japanese dishes. They are seemingly similar and yet very different. Rinken’s kitchen offers everything traditionally Okinawan from the outside décor to the interior design. Some of their old school Okinawan dishes consists of the Tebichi (pig knuckles), goya and tofu champuru (stir-fried mix), Okinawa soba, taco rice, and island style tempura. When I say island style tempura, compared to tempura in mainland Japan, you can tell right away what I mean by how an Okinawan tempura differs. I think the main difference is that instead of bread crumbs to coat the protein they use a batter similar to a T.G.I.Friday’s chicken finger. They also have some interesting traditional dishes with a twist such as the deep fried taro yams, peanut tofu, and some pickled Okinawa shallots. The one thing that was the most eye catching is… are you ready for this? Pigs ear with creamed peanut sauce. Unfortunately, I decided to stay clear of that item. I’ve never really woke up one Sunday afternoon and wondered, “Gosh, you know, I can really go for some pig’s ear today. Obviously, with some creamed peanut sauce!” Anyways, I’m sure it’s pretty good. Suited for the heart braver than mine perhaps. For the price, think of this place as more of a pub restaurant than an actual dining restaurant as most of the dishes come individually (meaning no rice) at finger food size servings ranging from about 400-600 yen. Not bad but, it’s the alcohol that will hurt your wallet.

Ultimately, I would recommend this place for bringing out-of-towners to give them a taste of traditional Okinawan food, beers, and awamori. To get to Rinken’s kitchen, go towards the Ferris wheel in Chatan and head towards sunset beach. Rinken’s kitchen is right next to the beach entrance opposite to the shower facility.

They accept yen and credit cards and IC cash like Apple Pay