In November in Naha, a 2-hour all-you-can-drink course for 9,900 yen, perfect for entertaining guests.
At 9 AM, even in Naha, where scattered clouds linger, preparations for the evening quietly unfold. The temperature is 25.99°C; the outside air is still gentle, yet the steam in the kitchen already hints at winter. The moment a lidded bowl is warmed, the aroma of dashi rises. During this time of year, as we approach the end of the year, what is needed at the table may be a smooth flow rather than mere splendor. As year-end parties and business meetings increase, the quiet course of Japanese cuisine awaits you in the alleys of Kume. On some nights, it is better for the dishes not to dominate the conversation at a business meeting. In important discussions, overly strong impressions from the dishes can interrupt the flow of conversation. However, they are not weak. With each bite, the temperature is just right, the saltiness is perfectly balanced, and the aroma fades quickly. When such a dish is present, the atmosphere naturally settles. At Wa Banshaku Mine, as a Japanese cuisine establishment in Naha, we reconfigure our courses each month, focusing on seasonal fish and vegetables. The work of the chef, trained in Kyoto-Gion, Tokyo, and Shizuoka for ten years, leans towards leaving contours rather than flamboyance. For instance, in owanmono, the clarity of the broth, the arrangement of ingredients, and the aroma released upon lifting the lid. While the details may seem minor, they manifest in the form of "conversations that do not break" at the table. Those seeking "reassurance" in Naha for business meetings may be looking for this kind of quiet strength. A 2-hour all-you-can-drink course for 9,900 yen to set the tempo of the evening. In November, as inquiries for group dining, particularly for private rooms in Naha, increase, many opt for the 2-hour all-you-can-drink course priced at 9,900 yen (tax included). The course includes 7 dishes, along with a closing dish (shime). It is designed to progress smoothly, taking into account the pace and preferences for drinks. The course content changes every month. For details, please inquire during your visit or at the time of reservation. While I prefer not to be definitive, it often happens that the moment when seasonal small plates are arranged becomes a highlight. If we use the term hassun, it refers to a plate featuring several seasonal small dishes, serving as an introduction to the evening. When placed before you, it brings a slight relaxation to the expression of your guest. Even at a business meeting, that can be quite helpful. In the private room, indirect lighting enhances the luster of the dishes, and voices resonate softly. At the counter, the sound of the chef placing down his knife briefly echoes, conveying the presence of the next dish. Even though it is an all-you-can-drink option, the atmosphere remains calm, featuring a selection of refined drinks, including Okinawan sake. Non-alcoholic beverages and soft drinks are also available, making it easy to accommodate those who do not drink. Those who feel a slight resistance to the term "all-you-can-drink" for business meetings may find themselves wanting to try the quiet kappo-style all-you-can-drink experience. Choosing a seat and making reservations for the night in Kume. We have 6 counter seats, 2 semi-private rooms for up to 4 guests each, and 1 private room for up to 10 guests. We operate only in the evening from 18:00 to 23:00 (last order at 22:00), and we are closed on Sundays and public holidays. It is about a 9-minute walk from Asahibashi Station; turn into the alley of Kume, and you will see the restaurant's light. For small meetings or solo dining, the counter is suitable. For business meetings where you wish to maintain eye contact, a private room is preferable. Some choose the private room for anniversary dinners in Naha, and simply changing the seating according to the volume of conversation can alter the impression of the evening. Reservations can be made 24 hours a day through TableCheck. The system supports multiple languages, making it smooth for overseas guests searching for a Naha Japanese restaurant. A brief note regarding the number of guests or any disliked ingredients can help ensure a smooth flow on the day. Three points of interest regarding seating and cuisine. I often receive inquiries about whether to reserve by phone or online. For those who find it difficult to make plans during the day, TableCheck is convenient. If you wish to convey detailed requests on the spot, we also welcome phone inquiries. Many ask what will be served in the omakase course. The content of the course changes every month. Since it is rearranged based on the seasonal fish and vegetables, I prefer not to fix a specific order here. If there are particular ingredients you are curious about or wish to avoid, please mention them when making your reservation. We will adjust as much as possible. Some ask if they can dine with overseas friends. We offer menus in English and Traditional Chinese, and basic English support is available. International credit cards are also accepted. As a quiet establishment, it is well-suited for those wishing to enjoy Japanese cuisine in a calm setting during their travels. November is a season with more evenings for conversation. Even in the same 2 hours, when the atmosphere is right, it feels shorter. The temperature of the dishes, the aroma of the dashi, the texture of the sake vessels—these small details support the pauses in conversation. When considering an all-you-can-drink business course, it is reassuring to secure the number of guests and the start time in advance. After that, you can relax at the table on the day. About Wa Banshaku Mine 📍 1-7-21 Akamine Building 1F 102, Kume, Naha City, Okinawa (approximately a 9-minute walk from Asahibashi Station) 🕒 Operating hours: 18:00 to 23:00 (last order at 22:00) / Closed on Sundays and public holidays 🍶 Authentic Japanese cuisine and sake / Omakase 5,500 yen (5 dishes)・6,600 yen (7 dishes)・7,700 yen (9 dishes) ※tax included 🥂 For business meetings: 2-hour all-you-can-drink course 9,900 yen (7 dishes, tax included) 🏮 6 counter seats / 2 semi-private rooms (up to 4 guests each) / 1 private room (up to 10 guests) 🌏 English / Traditional Chinese menus available / International credit cards accepted / 24-hour online reservations via TableCheck ✨ Seigo Inamine — After 10 years of training at renowned establishments in Kyoto-Gion, Tokyo, and Shizuoka, he returns to his hometown of Okinawa. For reservations, please contact TableCheck or call 098-975-5673.