Autumn in Naha: A Prelude of Hassun at the Counter
On an evening in October, soft light filters through the gaps in the clouds, with the temperature outside around 24°C. As you turn into the alley of Kume in Naha, the interior of the restaurant feels just a bit cooler. The chef's knife rests quietly, while his hands continue to wipe the dishes. Tonight's introduction is the hassun served at the counter. From the landscape of small plates, the evening unfolds, gently handing over the essence of the season. The Texture of October Begins with Hassun Hassun is a "plate of the evening's introduction," featuring a selection of seasonal small dishes. It plays a subtle role in hinting at the direction of flavors and aromas at the beginning of the course. Today's photo, for instance, showcases a corner of deep-fried items. As you insert your chopsticks into the battered ingredients, a thin shell gives way first, releasing steam that rises slowly. With each bite, the inside remains juicy. In early autumn, such contrasts in temperature are quite pleasant. The clarity of Okinawan ingredients allows their expressions to change with the method of cooking—frying, grilling, steaming. Care is taken not to overly emphasize these processes, while maintaining the core essence. The "cutting style that leaves negative space," learned in Kyoto, and the method of draining oil harmonize well with island vegetables and seafood. As you gradually touch upon sweetness, saltiness, and acidity within the hassun, your palate quietly awakens. There are moments when the atmosphere aligns before words are exchanged, whether for travelers or during business meetings. The Chef's Selection at 6,600 yen: A Mid-Course Beauty As a creative Japanese cuisine establishment in Naha, Wa Banshaku Mine focuses not on the flamboyance of dishes but on the flow of the dining experience. The chef's selection is available at 5,500 yen (5 dishes), 6,600 yen (7 dishes), and 7,700 yen (9 dishes). For those who wish to view the warm owanmono and grilled dishes following the hassun as a single composition on such an evening, the 6,600 yen option with 7 dishes is just right—not too light, not too heavy. It maintains a pace conducive to conversation. There is a moment when a steaming bowl is presented from the back of the counter. It is placed gently, avoiding contact with the rim of the dish. The first sip reveals the aroma of the dashi, while the second sip brings forth the contours of the ingredients. In October, as the outside air begins to cool slightly, one can feel the body gradually warming up. For those wishing to engage in quiet discussions in a private room, the flow of the dishes is easy to navigate without overwhelming the conversation. In addition to sake, we also offer non-alcoholic beverages and soft drinks. This ensures that the atmosphere remains harmonious, whether guests are drinking or abstaining. For those seeking Okinawan sake, the experience can be enjoyed, including the sake vessels. The time spent selecting a guinomi (sake cup) can surprisingly linger in memory. Securing a Quiet Seat for the Evening in Kume via TableCheck We are open for dinner only, from 18:00 to 23:00 (last order at 22:00). With 6 counter seats and 2 private rooms accommodating up to 4 guests each, the limited seating helps to minimize noise. The sounds of glasses clinking, the presence of the knife, and the steam rising from the kitchen—these details linger alongside the dishes. Reservations are accepted 24 hours a day through TableCheck. Our English menu accommodates those searching for a Naha Japanese restaurant from abroad, allowing them to proceed smoothly once they decide on a date and time. For residents who may not be proficient in Japanese, the menu is available in both English and traditional Chinese. During busy travel itineraries, securing a reservation provides the utmost peace of mind. Walking from Asahibashi, the brightness of the city gradually fades. For those arriving by car, it may be more calming to walk from a nearby coin parking lot rather than stopping directly in front of the restaurant. The night in Kume is best enjoyed at a leisurely pace. Concise Answers to Your Inquiries We often receive questions about whether individuals can dine alone. With only 6 counter seats, many guests enjoy their meal and drinks at a relaxed pace. Conversation is welcome as needed; quiet evenings are also embraced. There has been an increase in inquiries about whether we can accommodate international travelers. We provide an English menu and traditional Chinese menu, and our staff can assist with basic English. International credit cards are accepted. For those wishing to enjoy a course meal akin to Okinawa kaiseki, reservations through TableCheck ensure a smooth experience. Some may ask if we have parking available. We do not have dedicated parking. However, there are several paid coin parking options within walking distance. It is about a 9-minute walk from Asahibashi Station on the Yui Rail, and easily accessible by taxi. October is a season where warm and cold dishes coexist in the same evening. The first bite of the hassun can sometimes shift one's mood. If you have small preferences, such as a craving for deep-fried items or a desire for owanmono, please mention them when making your reservation. We will do our best to incorporate them into the flow of that evening. About Wa Banshaku Mine 📍 1-7-21 Akamine Building 1F 102, Kume, Naha City, Okinawa (approximately a 9-minute walk from Asahibashi Station on the Yui Rail) 🍶 Creative Japanese cuisine and sake / Chef's selection 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 credit 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.