2 Best Restaurants in Miyako Islands, Okinawa

This simple tavern serves inexpensive Okinawa favorites such as goya champuru (a stir-fry using bitter melon); Korean-style bibimbap (a delicious, tangy, healthful dish of kimchi, bean sprouts, spinach, and other vegetables stirred into rice); and a plate of katsuo (bonito) sashimi big enough for two or three people. There's live music on weekends.

The wooden walls of this rustic establishment are full of alcoves holding everything from dolls to farm implements to ancient jugs full of awamori (Okinawan sake made with Thai rice). Partially enclosed tatami-style rooms offer intimate experiences, while the beer-hall-style dining area in front of the stage makes socializing easy. There's live music nightly, and cheap, filling, delicious food. Reservations are essential in summer and around Japanese holidays.