OKINAWA

Food & Drink

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Yakiniku, delightful fusion with Korean BBQ and sad history behind it

Yakiniku, known as Japanese BBQ, is a delightful fusion of Korean and Japanese flavors, originating from Korean BBQ.

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King Tacos’ in Okinawa not chicken to serve other dishes

In Okinawa, King Tacos is almost like a synonym for taco rice.

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MY FAVES: Good eats for a great picnic on Okinawa's beautiful beaches

Although the temperature stays relatively warm throughout the year, winter in Okinawa can be a little too chilly for beachgoers.

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Did you know?: Naporitan spaghetti originated in Japan

The greasy, sweet and sour taste of “Naporitan spaghetti” is very popular among Japanese.

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Did you know?: Dried bonito - indispensable ingredients for Japanese food

Dried bonito, along with dried kelp, is an indispensable ingredient in miso soup and broths for various types of noodles.

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VIDEO: Speakin’ Japanese lesson: Thank you for the meal

In Japan, before you eat a meal, you say “itadakimasu” to express appreciation for those who cooked the food.

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The ultimate Japanese BBQ guide: Grilling tips, recipes, and must-try foods

There’s nothing quite like the smoky aroma of grilled meat, the sizzle of seafood on hot coals, and the shared joy of cooking outdoors.

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Speakin' Japanese: Chopsticks chatter

Sushi, tempura, savory okonomiyaki – there are so many yummy Japanese foods you won’t want to miss during your stay. “Hashi” or chopsticks are an indispensable tool when you sample these local specialties.

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My Faves: Okinawan ‘snack bread’

Kashi pan or “菓子パン” is a word that means “snack bread” in Japanese.

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Taste of Okinawa: Garlicky happiness at Tsuki no Akari near Kadena’s Gate 2

Chuka Soba Tsuki no Akari is a sleek shop on Gate 2 Street that is popular and familiar to Kadena residents and employees.

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Mexico taco joint debuts first branch in Chatan

There are many taco joints on Okinawa, but Mexico is arguably one of the most famous. Since its debut in 1977, this joint has been known for serving only one simple menu item: “taco.”

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Taste of Okinawa: Juicy, sweet pineapples a summer treat

In Japan, pineapples grow in only two prefectures: Okinawa and Kagoshima.

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Did you know?: May 8 is Bitter Melon Day in Okinawa

May 8 is supposed to be “Goya no Hi (day of bitter melon)” in Okinawa. The vegetable, which is rich in vitamin C, is thought to be one of the signature veggies of the prefecture. The date was picked because the numbers 5 and 8 can be pronounced in Japanese “Go” and “ya.”  

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VIDEO: Taste of Okinawa: Frying up bitter melon goya

If you live on Okinawa, you might have heard about Goya, a local cucumber-like vegetable also known as bitter melon.

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