1. What are the must-try local dishes in Ishigaki?
1. Ishigaki Beef: This local specialty is a must-try for all meat lovers. The beef, raised in the lush fields of Ishigaki, is known for its tender and flavorful taste.
2. Ishigaki Soba: Similar to other soba dishes in Japan, this noodle dish uses buckwheat noodles served in a light broth made from pork and bonito flakes.
3. Yaeyama Soba: Another variation of soba found exclusively in the Yaeyama region, including Ishigaki Island, uses thinner noodles and is served with stir-fried pork and vegetables.
4. Goya Champuru: A signature dish in Okinawa, this stir-fry dish combines bitter gourd (goya), tofu, eggs, and thinly sliced pork to create a unique blend of flavors.
5. Hirayachi: This thick pancake made with egg, flour, and vegetables such as scallions or onions is often topped with minced pork or squid.
6. Tofuyo: A fermented tofu dish unique to Okinawa that has a pungent smell but delicious taste. It can be eaten as is or used as an ingredient in various dishes.
7. Mozuku: A type of seaweed found only in the waters around Ishigaki which is often served as a salad or added into soups.
8. Shima-dofu: Okinawa’s version of tofu, made with soybeans grown on the islands and seasoned with Awamori (local liquor).
9. Rafute: Slow-cooked pork belly simmered in soy sauce and sugar until it becomes melt-in-your-mouth tender.
10. Chinsuko: A popular snack in Okinawa made from flour, sugar, lard, saltwater taffy,and eggshell powder that has a crunchy texture and mildly sweet taste.
2. Can you recommend any good seafood restaurants in Ishigaki?
Some popular seafood restaurants in Ishigaki include:
1. Yaeyama Robata Seafood Shibuya – known for its fresh, grilled seafood and local specialties like sashimi and ishiyaki (hot stone pot) dishes.
2. Kuishinbo – a casual restaurant that serves a variety of seafood dishes including tempura, sashimi, and shellfish.
3. Sakuraya – specializes in locally caught seafood, with an extensive menu including sushi, grilled fish, and crab dishes.
4. Tenshi no Iru Naihama – a cozy izakaya (Japanese pub) that serves up delicious seafood dishes along with a wide selection of sake.
5. Ishigaki Uomaru – famous for their amaebi (sweet shrimp) cuisine, this restaurant offers a variety of fresh seafood options and traditional Okinawan dishes.
6. Da.sumo – located near the ferry terminal, this casual restaurant offers set meals featuring fresh local fish and seafood at reasonable prices.
Overall, you can’t go wrong with any of these recommendations for delicious seafood dining in Ishigaki!
3. Are there any vegetarian or vegan options available in Ishigaki?
Yes, there are several vegetarian and vegan options available in Ishigaki. Some popular restaurants that offer vegetarian or vegan dishes include Marubun Organic Cafe, Dry Juice & Natural Cafe Aoao, Mr. Miyagi’s Kitchen, and Super Shake Factory Ishigaki. Additionally, many traditional Okinawan dishes such as tofu chanpuru (stir-fried tofu with vegetables) and goya champuru (stir-fried bitter melon) can be made without meat for a vegetarian/vegan option. It is always best to check with the restaurant beforehand to confirm their menu options.
4. How is the street food scene like in Ishigaki?
The street food scene in Ishigaki is vibrant and diverse. There are many food stalls and vendors along the streets and night markets, offering a variety of local and international delicacies.
One of the most popular dishes is Yaeyama soba, a type of noodle soup made with wheat flour noodles, broth, and various toppings such as pork, seaweed, and green onions. Other popular options include yakitori (grilled chicken skewers), takoyaki (octopus balls), and fried seafood like tempura shrimp and squid.
There are also many fresh seafood options available, such as grilled fish on sticks or sushi rolls filled with local tuna or other fish. Some street vendors also sell sweet treats like shaved ice topped with syrupy fruits or mochi (pounded sticky rice cakes).
Overall, the street food scene in Ishigaki offers a delicious taste of local flavors and provides a fun and lively atmosphere for visitors to try new dishes while exploring the city.
5. What are the popular drinks to try in Ishigaki?
1. Orion beer: This is a locally brewed beer and the most popular alcoholic drink on the island.
2. Awamori: This unique liquor made from rice is the official drink of Okinawa and can be found in different flavors such as honey, shiso, or brown sugar.
3. Umeshu: Made from green plums and sugar-infused sake, this sweet liqueur makes a great summertime drink.
4. Tropical fruit juice: The island has a variety of fresh tropical fruits like mangoes, papayas, and pineapples that are used to make delicious juices.
5. Blue Seal ice cream: This famous ice cream brand originated in Okinawa and offers unique flavors like purple yam and pineapple.
6. Habushu: This snake-infused liquor is believed to have medicinal properties and is often served in local bars.
7. Yakkii soba: A popular dish on the island, this warm noodle soup is often accompanied by a cold glass of milk, making for an interesting combination.
8. Kokuto shochu: Made from brown sugar and water, this smooth liquor is another local favorite.
9. Coconut water: Ishigaki’s tropical climate means fresh coconuts are readily available and make for a refreshing drink.
10. Green tea soba cha: This healthy tea made from roasted buckwheat can be found in various cafes and restaurants on the island.
6. Is it common to find English menus at restaurants in Ishigaki?
Yes, it is not uncommon to find English menus at restaurants in Ishigaki. Many restaurants cater to international tourists and have English menus available, especially in popular tourist areas. However, some smaller or more traditional restaurants may only have Japanese menus. It is always helpful to do some research beforehand or ask at the restaurant if an English menu is available.
7. Are there any unique dining experiences, such as rooftop or beachside restaurants, in Ishigaki?
Yes, there are a few unique dining experiences in Ishigaki, including rooftop and beachside restaurants.
1. Kabira Bay Starlight Terrace: This restaurant is located on a cliff overlooking the beautiful Kabira Bay. It offers stunning views of the bay and serves locally caught seafood dishes using fresh ingredients.
2. Yaeyama Tarzan Dining: This open-air restaurant is situated on a hilltop amidst lush greenery, offering panoramic views of the surrounding area. Guests can enjoy traditional Okinawan cuisine while admiring the natural beauty of the island.
3. SukuSuku: This beachfront restaurant features a wooden deck with tables set up directly on the sand, offering a unique dining experience by the ocean. The menu includes a mix of Japanese and Western dishes.
4. Hanamigaoka Bar & Restaurant: Located on a hilltop with views of Ishigaki’s coast, this restaurant offers both indoor and outdoor seating options and specializes in Italian cuisine.
5. Soi Soi Bar & Grill: This popular spot has both indoor and outdoor seating options, including tables right on Sunset Beach. Guests can enjoy delicious grilled dishes while taking in views of the ocean and sunset.
6. Yatai Mura (food stalls village): This lively night market features food stalls selling various local specialties such as yakitori (grilled chicken skewers), seafood, and Okinawan snacks. Visitors can try different dishes while also enjoying live music performances.
7.V20 Sky Bar & Lounge: Situated on top of Hotel Tulip Resort Ishigakijima, this rooftop bar offers sweeping views of Ishigaki’s skyline while guests sip on cocktails or savor fusion cuisine dishes from their elevated dining experience.
8. Do restaurants in Ishigaki typically accept credit cards or is it a cash-only system?
Most restaurants in Ishigaki do accept credit cards, but it is always a good idea to confirm with the restaurant beforehand. Some smaller or more traditional restaurants may only accept cash, so it would be wise to have some yen on hand just in case.
9. How expensive is dining out in Ishigaki compared to other cities in Japan?
Dining out in Ishigaki can vary in price, but generally it is more expensive compared to other cities in Japan. This is due to its location as a popular tourist destination and the cost of importing food and ingredients to the remote island. A meal at a mid-range restaurant could cost around 1,200-2,500 yen per person, while higher end restaurants can range from 3,000-6,000 yen per person. Street food options are also available for lower prices, usually around 500-800 yen per item. Overall, dining out in Ishigaki may be slightly more expensive than other cities in Japan.
10. Are there any recommended cafes for breakfast or afternoon tea in Ishigaki?
1. Churashima Cafe – known for its delicious butter toast and brown sugar coffee
2. Café Miya – a hidden gem with a cozy, retro atmosphere and tasty homemade pastries
3. Soutaro Shokudo – popular for its hearty breakfast sets and freshly baked bread
4. Nuii café – offers a variety of healthy breakfast and lunch options, as well as delicious cakes
5. Akanasu Shimaya – a charming cafe with a quaint garden setting, perfect for afternoon tea
6. Compasion Cafe Ishigaki – specializes in organic and vegan options, including their famous tofu cream latte
7. Fukidoki Coffee Stand – serves up delicious coffee with stunning views of the ocean
8. Terrace Nice View – located on the rooftop of Hotel Peace Land Ishigaki, offering panoramic views and scrumptious breakfast dishes
9. Café Yuki no Sabo – known for its traditional Okinawan sweets and hot teas
10. Vîlla À La Mer Shimoji Honten – serves up a luxurious afternoon tea set with views of the ocean and nearby islands.
11. What traditional Okinawan dishes can I find on the menu at local restaurants in Ishigaki?
Some traditional Okinawan dishes that you may find on the menu at local restaurants in Ishigaki include:
1. Goya chanpuru: A stir-fry dish made with bitter melon, tofu, egg, and pork.
2. Taco rice: A popular dish in Okinawa that consists of rice topped with seasoned ground beef, lettuce, cheese, and salsa.
3. Rafute: Slow-cooked pork belly simmered in a sweet soy-based sauce.
4. Soki soba: Okinawa-style noodle soup with tender pork ribs as the main protein.
5. Umibudo (sea grapes): A type of seaweed popular in Okinawan cuisine, often served as a side dish or added to salads.
6. Tartar champloo: Similar to goya chanpuru but made with diced spam instead of pork.
7. Ishigaki beef: The local specialty of Ishigaki Island – high-quality beef known for its tenderness and flavor.
8. Sata andagi: A deep-fried doughnut-like dessert typically sold as a street food snack.
9. Nakami jiru: A hearty soup made with pig organs and lots of vegetables.
10. Beniimo tarts: Sweet tarts filled with purple sweet potato paste – another famous product of Okinawa.
11. Mozuku salad: A refreshing salad made with a type of seaweed called mozuku marinated in vinegar and served cold.
12. Do you know of any farm-to-table restaurants or local farmers’ markets in Ishigaki where I can try fresh produce and ingredients?
Yes, here are a few farm-to-table restaurants and farmers’ markets in Ishigaki that you can visit to try fresh produce and ingredients:
1. Yanbaru Kitchen: This restaurant uses locally grown, organic vegetables and ingredients from Ishigaki Island in their dishes.
2. Southern Kitchen: This restaurant offers farm-to-table dining with a focus on using fresh, local ingredients such as Ishigaki beef and seafood.
3. Yaeminoue Farmers’ Market: This outdoor market is held every Saturday morning and features a variety of locally grown fruits, vegetables, honey, and other products.
4. Aki Farm: This farm offers tours where visitors can pick their own fresh fruits such as pineapples, mangos, and papayas directly from the fields.
5. Ishigakijima Produce Center: This indoor market features a wide selection of locally grown vegetables, fruits, meat, fish, and other agricultural products.
6. Farm Cafe Yukaru: This cozy cafe serves dishes made with ingredients directly from their own organic vegetable garden.
7. Taketomi Island Organic Farmer’s Market: Located on nearby Taketomi Island, this weekly market offers a colorful array of seasonal fruits and vegetables grown by local farmers without the use of pesticides or chemical fertilizers.
8. Doda Farm Market: Another popular outdoor market that takes place every Saturday morning featuring local produce from Ishigaki and surrounding islands.
9. Kanna Vegetable Garden: Visitors can pick their own vegetables at this farm or enjoy a meal at their onsite restaurant using ingredients grown on the property.
10. Hirai Farm & Cafe: A family-owned farm offering fresh produce for purchase as well as dining options using organic vegetables from their fields.
13. Are there any halal options for Muslim travelers in Ishigaki?
Yes, there are a few halal options for Muslim travelers in Ishigaki.
1. Damie Getto: This is a halal-certified restaurant that serves Japanese and Okinawan cuisine. They use only halal-certified ingredients and have prayer facilities available.
2. Cafe 155: This cafe offers halal-friendly dishes such as curry and pasta made with halal meat. They also have vegetarian options available.
3. Halal Bento Box at Lawson: Some Lawson convenience stores in Ishigaki offer halal bento boxes, which are pre-packaged meals that include only halal-certified ingredients.
4. Sauzakura Shokudo: This restaurant offers a variety of dishes made with locally grown vegetables and seafood from the Ishigaki area. They can also accommodate specific dietary requirements, including halal options.
5. Masjd Al-Hidayah Mosque: There is a small mosque located in Ishigaki where Muslim travelers can perform their daily prayers.
It is always advisable to double-check with the restaurant or facility beforehand to ensure they can cater to your specific needs as a Muslim traveler.
14. Can you suggest a great spot for a romantic dinner with a view of the ocean or sunset in Ishigaki?
One great spot for a romantic dinner with a view of the ocean or sunset in Ishigaki is at Fusaki Resort Village. Their restaurant, Mibaru, offers stunning views of the ocean and sunset from its outdoor terrace. They also offer private cabanas on the beach for a more intimate dining experience. Their menu features fresh seafood and local specialties, perfect for a romantic evening by the sea.
15. Is it customary to tip at restaurants and eateries in Ishigaki?
Yes, it is customary to tip at restaurants and eateries in Ishigaki. Tipping in Japan is not as common as it is in other countries, but a small tip of around 5-10% of the total bill is appreciated. However, some high-end establishments may include a service charge in the bill, so be sure to check before leaving a tip. Additionally, leaving a small gift or thank you note for excellent service is also appreciated in Japanese culture.
16 .Where can I find yakiniku (Japanese BBQ) restaurants around Ishikagi?
There are several yakiniku restaurants around Ishikagi. Some popular options are:1. Yakiniku Asahi: This restaurant offers a wide variety of high-quality meats and vegetables for grilling, as well as a beautiful ocean view.
2. Uehara Yakiniku Azumaya: Located in the Uehara area, this restaurant is known for its delicious marinated beef and welcoming atmosphere.
3. Yakiniku Jinja: This family-owned restaurant puts a modern twist on traditional yakiniku dishes, using high-quality ingredients sourced from the local area.
4. Gyushintei Yakiniku: Known for its mouthwatering wagyu beef selection, this restaurant offers diners an upscale yakiniku experience.
5. Yanbaru Gotochiya Yakiniku: Situated in Nago City, this restaurant specializes in locally-sourced meats and serves its dishes with an array of tasty sauces.
It is always recommended to check online reviews or ask locals for recommendations before trying out a new restaurant.
17 . Do any restaurants offer cooking classes where I can learn how to make traditional Okinawan dishes?
Yes, there are several restaurants in Okinawa that offer cooking classes for traditional Okinawan dishes. Some popular options include:
1. Okinawa Cooking Class: This restaurant offers hands-on cooking classes for traditional Okinawan dishes such as soba noodles, goya champuru, and more.
2. Okinawa Ryuku-ryori Techan: Aside from serving authentic Ryukyuan cuisine, this restaurant also offers cooking classes where participants can learn how to make their signature dishes.
3. Goori-Goori Kitchen & Cafe: This restaurant holds regular cooking workshops focused on traditional Okinawan dishes and ingredients.
4. Tabesca Cooking Studio: Located in Naha City, this studio offers both group and private cooking classes featuring various local specialties.
5. Food Savoring Okinawa: This company specializes in cultural experience tours, including hands-on cooking classes that teach participants how to make classic Okinawan dishes using fresh local ingredients.
It’s always a good idea to check with the establishments beforehand for schedules and possible language barriers if you don’t speak Japanese.
18 . Are there any all-you-can-eat seafood buffets on the island?
Yes, there is an all-you-can-eat seafood buffet at The Crab Trap in Destin. Additionally, the Crystal Beach Buffet in Miramar Beach offers a selection of seafood dishes on their buffet as well. Other options include Captain Dave’s on Okaloosa Island and Shrimp Basket in Fort Walton Beach, both of which have all-you-can-eat shrimp specials.
19 . How do locals feel about foreigners attempting to use chopsticks while dining out?
It varies from person to person, but in general, locals appreciate and applaud foreigners who make an effort to use chopsticks while dining out. They see it as a sign of respect for their culture and an attempt to immerse themselves in the local experience. However, some locals may also find it amusing or endearing if a foreigner struggles with using chopsticks. Ultimately, as long as you are respectful and trying your best, locals are typically supportive and encouraging.
20 . Where can I find some delicious dessert options, such as shaved ice or crepes, near the main tourist areas of Ishikagi?
1. Lapin cafe: located in the heart of Ishigaki City, this cozy cafe offers a variety of delicious desserts including homemade shaved ice with fresh fruit and a variety of crepes.
2. Manmaru Shaved Ice: located near the Ishigaki Port, this popular spot specializes in handcrafted shaved ice with various toppings such as fresh fruit, condensed milk, and azuki beans.
3. Crepe 88: Another popular spot for crepes, Crepe 88 offers both sweet and savory options, along with a selection of shaved ice in flavors like mango and strawberry.
4. Rinkoto Shaved Ice & Creperie: This quaint little shop in downtown Ishigaki serves up fluffy shaved ice with unique toppings like Okinawan black sugar syrup and purple yam powder. They also have a variety of crepe options to choose from.
5. Cafe de Tropicana: Located in Ishigaki’s Kabira Bay area, this cafe offers stunning ocean views and a menu full of delicious desserts such as mango shaved ice, parfait, and crepes filled with local fruits.
6. Bubble Tea SLOTH Cafe: This cute little cafe near the main tourist street in Ishigaki serves up both bubble tea and desserts such as shaved ice topped with fresh cream and seasonal fruits.
7. Parmesan House Cocoa Leaf: This cozy cafe is known for its delicious parmesan gelato but also has a selection of crepes on their menu, including classic flavors like chocolate banana and caramel almond.
8. Kitchen Kajipon: Located near Fusaki Beach, this cafe offers an extensive menu of crepes filled with mouth-watering combinations like honey butter toast or brown sugar pineapple cream cheese.
9. Yukimi Shaved Ice Shop: A small but popular shop that specializes in creamy shaved milk snow cones drizzled with unique toppings like passionfruit syrup or green tea syrup.
10. Pineapple House Sango: This beachfront cafe in the Kabira Bay area offers a selection of crepes, shaved ice, and soft serve ice cream topped with tropical fruits such as pineapple and mango.