This was my favourite place to eat in Okinawa.
Edomae Sushi in Okinawa wasn’t fancy, it wasn’t modern, but it was everything I wanted. Simple, local, authentic, and absolutely delicious. I found it on Google while I was searching for somewhere non-touristy to eat. I love walking to meals (I like to think it balances out the calories), and it was about 25 minutes from where I was staying – the perfect little wander to work up an appetite.
I’d already walked out of three other places because they were way too touristy – plastic menus, too many English signs, and just no vibe. I can’t stand eating in restaurants that are obviously built for tourists, anywhere in the world.
When I arrived at Edomae, I knew immediately it was the right choice. It’s tucked away and super unassuming, the kind of little spot that you could easily walk past if you didn’t know what you were looking for. Inside, it’s a tiny traditional sushi izakaya – all wood, a bit worn in, with random bits and pieces from the owners tucked into corners. It just feels like Japan.
I sat at the bar, and the older couple who run the place were so lovely. The sushi master just quietly went about his business behind the bar while his wife came over to welcome me and confirm I was happy to pay in cash. She showed me the three set menus and I picked the middle one because, honestly, I had no idea what I was doing. In hindsight, I wish I’d gone for the top one – the middle was already incredible, and it was only about $13.
I ordered a local Orion beer (when in Okinawa), and watched the sushi being made directly in front of me. Each piece was placed gently on a wooden box in front of me at the bar, one by one. The sushi was fresh, clean, flavourful – no unnecessary extras, just really well done.
I could’ve sat there for hours. Watching him work was almost meditative. The whole experience was quiet, calming, and just really, really lovely.
There’s something about places like this that just hits differently. The couple clearly love what they do. They’ve probably been doing it forever, and they’re still turning out beautiful food with care and attention. They were so kind and so grateful for the business, and I was more than happy to support them.
If you’re in Okinawa and want a proper sushi experience that feels like real Japan – this is it. Highly recommend.
