In September, at the counter of Wa Banshaku Mine in Naha, ex…
In September, at the counter of Wa Banshaku Mine in Naha, experience the entrance to the night with the hassun, available for six guests. At 18:00, on a Friday when the warmth still lingers in the alleys of Kume, the sky is adorned with few clouds, and the temperature feels like 28.81°C. As you pass through the noren, the only sound that reaches your ears is the rhythmic strike of the chef's knife against the cutting board. Tonight, we invite you to delve a little deeper into the rhythm that begins with the "hassun." The hassun is a small landscape that prepares the entrance to the night. The hassun consists of several seasonal small dishes arranged on a single plate. It often appears at the beginning of the course, serving to align the pace of your palate and spirit with the evening at the restaurant. In the warm September air of Naha, you set down your cold sake for a moment, and with the first bite, your taste buds awaken. For that moment, we prepare numerous small dishes. The treasures of Okinawa's sea and mountains present different expressions even when made from the same ingredients. Thus, the hassun is never fixed. We may define contours with a light acidity, embrace them with the roundness of dashi, or draw out aromas with a brief touch of heat. There are nights when the concept of subtraction learned in Kyoto works harmoniously with the strength of Okinawan ingredients. Within a single plate, the temperature and aroma gradually change, creating an entrance that reflects the essence of September. For those who enjoy solitary drinking, the hassun offers conversation and silence. The counter accommodates six seats. Simply sitting down brings a sense of calm to the atmosphere. On a night spent alone, there may be days when you wish to converse and days when you prefer silence. The hassun can accompany you in either case. Time flows as you gaze at the presentation, and with each bite, your spirit unravels. If you choose the chef's selection, a light start is perfectly suited at 5,500 yen (five dishes). Following the hassun, the meal seamlessly transitions to sashimi, a cooked dish, owanmono, rice, and fresh fruit dessert. The moment when the steaming bowl of owanmono is presented from the back of the counter is the quietest, as the sounds of the restaurant momentarily fade. The warmth of that moment lingers in memory, especially on a night still touched by heat. For sake, we offer a selection of Okinawan sake, served gradually to complement the dishes. When selecting the sake vessels, the chef pauses to test the rim of the guinomi, conveying a sense that strong words are unnecessary. For those who do not drink, we also provide cold tea and non-alcoholic options. Whether you are a traveler or a resident, please feel free to choose according to your condition. Regarding the distance of Kume as a kappo, reservations serve as an entrance. Wa Banshaku Mine operates only in the evening. For business meetings or quiet dining, we have two private rooms, each accommodating up to four guests. When the doors close, the echo of voices settles, making it easier to create pauses in conversation. This season sees an increase in those seeking private rooms for meetings in Naha. Many seem to prefer a more understated approach to anniversary dinners, focusing on the harmony of dishes and vessels rather than extravagant decorations. Reservations can be made through TableCheck. Available 24 hours with multilingual options, it should be easy to secure a spot even while traveling from abroad. A nine-minute walk from Asahibashi, as you walk while checking the map, the brightness of the city gradually recedes. By the time you arrive at the restaurant, your breathing is calm. Such an entrance suits the creative Japanese cuisine of Naha. For any inquiries, we respond briefly. Sometimes we are asked if one can dine alone. With six seats at the counter, a solitary night feels natural. Whether you seek conversation or prefer to eat in silence, you are welcome as you are. We also receive inquiries about whether overseas guests can visit. We provide an English menu and a Traditional Chinese menu. Our staff can assist with basic English, and overseas-issued cards are accepted. For those searching for a Japanese restaurant in Naha, we hope you can relax and enjoy. Many ask if there is parking available for those who wish to drive. Unfortunately, we do not have dedicated parking. However, there are several paid coin parking options within walking distance. If using the Yui Rail, it is about a nine-minute walk from Asahibashi Station, allowing for a leisurely stroll along the night path. In September, where the remnants of heat blend with hints of autumn, each dish beginning with the hassun gradually transforms the temperature of Naha's night. When making a reservation, please let us know if there are any ingredients you dislike or if you have specific preferences. We await your arrival, ready to curate the entrance to your experience. About Wa Banshaku Mine 📍 1-7-21 Kume, Naha City, Okinawa Prefecture, 1F 102, Akamine Building (approximately 9 minutes on foot from Asahibashi Station) 🕒 Operating hours: 18:00 - 23:00 (Last order at 22:00) / Closed on Sundays and public holidays 🍶 Creative Japanese cuisine and sake / Chef's selection 5,500 yen (five dishes)・6,600 yen (seven dishes)・7,700 yen (nine dishes) 🏮 Counter seating for six / Two private rooms (each accommodating up to four) / Suitable for small business meetings, anniversaries, or a night of travel 🌏 English / Traditional Chinese menus available / Overseas-issued cards accepted / 24-hour online reservations via TableCheck ✨ Inamine Seigo — After training in Kyoto-Gion, Tokyo, and Shizuoka, now in Okinawa. For reservations, please contact TableCheck or call 098-975-5673.