In October, Kume begins with the aroma of grilling, featuring 7 dishes of Naha counter-style Japanese dining.
At 5 PM, the sky over Kume remains clouded, with a lingering warmth in the air. As the lights of the restaurant come on, the scent of charcoal wafts gently, enhancing the sheen of the dishes on the counter. Tonight's entrance begins with a grilled bite, quietly refining the contours of Okinawan ingredients with the cooking techniques learned in Kyoto. The aroma of grilling takes precedence in early autumn. October is a month where "still hot" and "slightly cool" coexist. There are days when temperatures exceed 25°C, making one yearn for chilled sake, while moments arise when the desire for the scent of fire increases. Grilling serves as the bridge between these sensations. The dish in the photo emphasizes not strong flavors but rather the contrast of surface crispiness and inner moisture. Only the grilled parts produce sound, while the sweetness of the flesh lingers in the background. The accompanying grated daikon does not overpower with spiciness but rather cleanses the palate for the next bite. When citrus is squeezed, the aroma becomes more delicate, allowing the contours of the sake to stand out. While "creative Japanese cuisine in Naha" may seem broad, here we focus on "what has arrived today, at today's temperature." We create a night that does not lean too heavily toward either sea or mountain ingredients. The early autumn is brief; thus, the method of grilling determines the flavor. The chef's omakase at 6,600 yen, depicting the midsection of the evening with 7 dishes. For business meetings or special occasions, it is essential that the flow of conversation remains uninterrupted. Too many dishes can rush the pace, while too few can leave gaps. At this time in October, the chef's omakase at 6,600 yen (7 dishes in total) fits perfectly. While maintaining the structure of Japanese cuisine with hassun, owanmono, sashimi, and grilled dishes, we rearrange the order and temperature according to the day's ingredients. The hassun serves as "an entrance dish for the evening," featuring several seasonal small plates. Within the dish, the brininess of the seaside and the greenness of the mountains are gradually scattered. There is a moment in the back of the counter when the lid of the bowl is gently lifted. Steam rises, and the aroma reaches ahead of everything else. Even on a warm night, the owanmono brings a sense of calm to the body's internal temperature. One may choose to pair it with chilled sake in a slender glass or round it out with slightly warmed sake. For those who come seeking Okinawan sake, we offer suggestions tailored to the day's dishes. This restaurant's approach to serving sake does not dictate how it should be enjoyed. The phrase "a quiet adult establishment" is convenient, but in reality, it is much more specific. The sound of knives being set down, the subtle echoes of dishes clinking, and the distance that remains for necessary conversation. When travelers searching for "Naha Japanese restaurant" arrive, we ensure they can experience the same atmosphere, providing an English menu. Some aspects of the cuisine can be conveyed without explanation; however, a single word can enhance the overall experience. The night at Kume kappo is defined by the number of seats. We are open for dinner only. From 6 PM to 11 PM, with the last order at 10 PM. The counter has 6 seats. With a limited number of visible seats, we avoid sudden noise. Whether one is quietly sipping alone or choosing words carefully during a business meeting in a private room, both experiences coexist seamlessly within the same restaurant. There are 2 private rooms, accommodating up to 4 guests each. It is a space where one can speak without worrying about the volume of their voice during important conversations. Located in Kume, Naha. Approximately a 9-minute walk from Asahibashi Station. On a night of sightseeing, after a short walk from the hotel, the lights of the restaurant become visible as the brightness of the downtown area fades. Reservations via TableCheck are accepted 24 hours a day, with multilingual options available. For those with fluid travel plans, this should be convenient. Due to the limited seating, it is advisable to secure a reservation once your schedule is confirmed. If you have inquiries regarding a special occasion dinner in Naha, please mention it when making your reservation. Whether you prefer a subtle dessert or wish to avoid strong aromas, we will accommodate within our means. Cake can also be brought in, and in a private room, it is easier to create the right moment for serving. We will speak briefly about any concerns you may have. You may wonder whether it is better to make a reservation by phone or through TableCheck. For those who need certainty during the day or while traveling, TableCheck is convenient. If there are specific details to discuss, it is helpful to inquire by phone first. There are also questions about whether international travelers can use the restaurant and if English is understood. We provide English and traditional Chinese menus. Our staff can assist with basic English, conveying the content of the dishes in a concise and understandable manner. Payments can also be made with internationally issued cards. If you wish to drive, you may ask about parking availability. We do not have a dedicated parking lot. However, there are several paid coin parking options within walking distance, so please utilize those. It is also about a 9-minute walk from Asahibashi Station, making public transportation a smooth option for visiting. The aroma of grilling lingers in memory even before it is captured in a photograph. In October, a perfect space emerges between a chilled drink and a warm bowl. If there is a day that piques your interest, please add a note to your reservation saying, "a grilled dish, please." We will prepare the entrance dish as soon as it arrives. About Wa Banshaku Mine 📍 1-7-21 Kume, Naha City, Okinawa Prefecture, Akamine Building 1F 102 (approximately a 9-minute walk from Asahibashi Station) 🕒 Open: 6 PM to 11 PM (Last order at 10 PM) / Closed: Sundays and public holidays 🍶 Creative Japanese cuisine and sake / Chef's omakase 5,500 yen (5 dishes), 6,600 yen (7 dishes), 7,700 yen (9 dishes) 🏮 6 counter seats / 2 private rooms (up to 4 guests each) / Suitable for small business meetings, anniversaries, or a night during your travels 🌏 English / Traditional Chinese menus available / International cards accepted / 24-hour online reservations via TableCheck ✨ Seigo Inamine — After training in Kyoto-Gion, Tokyo, and Shizuoka, now in Okinawa. For reservations, please contact TableCheck or call 098-975-5673.