An evening of counter-style Japanese dining in Naha, welcomi…
An evening of counter-style Japanese dining in Naha, welcoming October with a seasonal appetizer platter of seven dishes. In Naha, October, at 9 PM. As the clear night breeze flows past the restaurant, the glass of indigo appears even deeper. At the back of the counter, the only sound is that of the chef placing his knife down, as the essence of autumn is artfully arranged on the plate. Tonight's opening is the hassun. Each bite presents a different temperature and aroma, creating the contours of the evening. Gathering the "small touches" of autumn in the hassun. The hassun is a plate featuring several seasonal small dishes, often served at the beginning of the course, representing "the essence of this restaurant" in the most direct way. In October, while remnants of warmth linger, moments arise when we long for steam and fragrance. By mixing in a warm bite rather than solely relying on cold dishes, the evening finds its calm. As shown in the photo, when arranged gradually in a blue vessel, the colors of the ingredients emerge. For instance, the light cooking of Okinawan island vegetables, the infusion of dashi, and the balance of vinegar. What the chef learned in Kyoto was to refine the ingredients by removing excess through blade and heat, subtly revealing the contours of Okinawan ingredients. Some days, the aroma of mushrooms is prominent, while on others, the local fish shines. When the hassun is quiet, the subsequent owanmono and grilled dishes naturally deepen in flavor. "Little by little," the conversation unfolds. Whether for business meetings or a night of travel, it is often observed how this plate sets the tone for the atmosphere at the table. In the middle of the evening, a seven-course omakase for 6,600 yen. As a creative Japanese cuisine establishment in Naha, the core of Wa Banshaku Mine is the chef's omakase. For a light evening, the five-course Wabanshaku Course at 5,500 yen is delightful, but in October, the seven-course option at 6,600 yen strikes a perfect balance. Starting with the hassun, raising the temperature with the owanmono, returning to the sea with the sashimi, and layering in the fragrance with the grilled and deep-fried dishes. Finally, we land softly with the fresh fruit dessert. The fresh fruit dessert refers to a small plate that harmonizes the aftertaste with fruits or chilled sweets, leaving the palate feeling light. The beauty of counter-style kappo dining lies in the short distance between the dishes being served. The moment a steaming owanmono is presented, the aroma that wafts up when the lid is lifted reaches the table. On quiet nights, the sound of glasses being placed resonates beautifully with the scent of dashi. As Okinawan sake also changes with the seasons, if you share your preferences, I would be pleased to suggest pairings that match the temperature of the dishes. For those who prefer lighter beverages, non-alcoholic options and tea are also available. When explaining to those from English-speaking countries, it is close to convey that the dining experience progresses dish by dish in a kappo setting. For those seeking a Naha Japanese restaurant with a tranquil pace, it is easy to match the atmosphere to the amount of conversation and the rhythm of the evening. A brief journey from the night path of Kume to your seat. The restaurant is located in Naha, Kume. It is about a 9-minute walk from Asahibashi Station, and as you embrace the night breeze, your appetite naturally awakens. There are six counter seats and two private rooms, each accommodating up to four guests. During business meetings, it is common to settle into a private room for conversation, allowing the dishes to quietly accompany the dialogue. For anniversaries, I would like to begin with a leisurely selection of the first toast. We are open for dinner only from 6:00 PM to 11:00 PM (last order at 10:00 PM), and we are closed on Sundays and public holidays. The dishes change slightly based on the day's ingredients, so if you could share your preferences within reason, such as "more fish" or "focusing on vegetables," it would be easier to tailor the menu. Reservations can be conveniently made through TableCheck, available 24 hours a day in multiple languages. It should be accessible even during your travels. When seated at the end of the counter, the luster of the vessels catches the light, and the blue of the sake vessels deepens into the night. The distance to neighboring seats is not too close. Even when dining alone, there is an atmosphere that does not compel you to search for words. I will respond briefly to your inquiries. I am often asked whether reservations are better made by phone or online. You may choose whichever is more convenient, but TableCheck allows you to check availability and make reservations in one go. For urgent changes, a phone call may be quicker. I sometimes receive inquiries about whether international guests can use the restaurant. We offer menus in English and Traditional Chinese, and our staff can communicate in basic English. International credit cards are also accepted. It is a night to enjoy the atmosphere of Okinawan kaiseki without formality. Many ask if there is parking available for those who wish to drive. We do not have a dedicated parking lot. However, there are several paid coin parking options within walking distance. If using public transport, it is about a 9-minute walk from Asahibashi Station, a clear distance even at night. In October, the arrangement of the hassun changes even with the same vessel. Just as tonight's temperature is 24.9°C, I will prepare a bite that complements the slightly cooler air. If you mention, "I saw the photo of the hassun" when making your reservation, I will take special care in arranging that evening's opening plate. About Wa Banshaku Mine 📍 1-7-21 Akamine Building 1F 102, Kume, Naha City, Okinawa (approximately 9 minutes on foot from Asahibashi Station) 🕒 Open: 6:00 PM to 11:00 PM (last order at 10:00 PM) / Closed: Sundays and public holidays 🍶 Creative Japanese cuisine and sake / Chef's omakase 5,500 yen (5 courses)・6,600 yen (7 courses)・7,700 yen (9 courses) 🏮 Counter seating for 6 / 2 private rooms (each accommodating up to 4 guests) / Suitable for small business meetings, anniversaries, or a night of travel 🌏 Menus available in English and Traditional Chinese / International credit cards accepted / 24-hour online reservations via TableCheck ✨ Moriko Inamine — After training in Kyoto-Gion, Tokyo, and Shizuoka, now in Okinawa. For reservations, please contact TableCheck or call 098-975-5673.