Okubu Island's Specialty—Fresh Okinawan Tempura for Lunch
About this spot
Okubu Island (奥武島), easily reached by a bridge, is a small fishing town known as the Tempura Island. Supporting this reputation is Nakamoto Fresh Fish Tempura Shop, which began as a fishmonger. Okinawan tempura here—made with island-specialty ingredients like sea grapes, squid, fish, and sea lettuce (Aosa), wrapped in fluffy, thick batter—has an unpretentious flavor somewhere between a side dish and a snack. Biting into freshly fried tempura makes waiting in line worthwhile. With the fishing harbor and blue sea spreading directly in front of the shop, the island-style way to enjoy it is perched on the breakwater, eating while feeling the sea breeze. Strolling leisurely through the island's quiet lanes, spotting cats, lets the afternoon hours flow gently by.
Tips
This popular shop has lines during lunch hours, so arrive with time to spare. Wet tissues are handy if eating fried food outdoors. The island has many relaxed cats; watch your feet to keep tempura safe from them. Prepare cash for payment.
Best time to visit
Approximately 1 hour. Arriving slightly after the lunch rush results in shorter lines and lets you savor the freshly fried tempura more leisurely.
Access & map
2F, 9-9 Okubu, Tamaki, Nanjo City, Okinawa Prefecture 〒901-0614
Model course featuring this spot
Nanjo: Sacred Saitani Utaki and Okinawa World - A Journey Through Ryukyuan Holy Sites and Limestone Caves
Okinawa
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