Before the year-end party, the space for the seasonal appetizer platter at the 6-seat counter in Naha.
In November in Naha, the sky is clear, and the night breeze has become slightly lighter. The outside temperature is 21.95°C. As I warm a steaming bowl at the back of the counter, the time to select a dish increases. When the light falls on the glass and reflects blue, thoughts naturally turn to the temperature of the sake. As the year-end approaches, the pace of conversation and the flow of drinks differ from usual. The seasonal appetizer platter pairs beautifully with the entrance to such a night. The seasonal appetizer platter sets the stage for "the entrance of the night." The seasonal appetizer platter is the first dish, featuring a selection of small seasonal bites. While it is commonly referred to as an appetizer, I feel it serves the purpose of defining the contours of the night. The temperature upon entering the mouth, the application of salt, and the emergence of aromas—all must be precise, as the small size leaves no room for error. As in the photograph, small bowls may be added, and grilled, simmered, and aromatic items are arranged in small portions. There are days when the sweetness and moisture of seasonal vegetables, particularly Kyoto heirloom vegetables (kyo-yasai), are highlighted. Fish is handled gently, ensuring that the cut surface remains beautiful and does not dry out before reaching the mouth, paying attention even to the temperature of the plate. The ten years of experience accumulated in Kyoto-Gion, Tokyo, and Shizuoka manifest most clearly in these "small bites." What kind of night do you imagine when you hear about Japanese cuisine in Naha? It is not about flamboyance but rather quiet precision. Many regulars who have moved from the mainland are drawn to this atmosphere. It is a night when one wishes to enjoy authentic Japanese food in the alleys of Kume. Year-end parties and business meetings can be enjoyed lightly with a 2-hour all-you-can-drink course. As November arrives, inquiries about "Naha private room business meetings" increase. Year-end schedules tend to fill up quickly, and one often considers the preferences of the guests and the flow of the evening when selecting a restaurant. In such cases, the 2-hour all-you-can-drink course at 9,900 yen (tax included) is a straightforward choice. The menu consists of 7 dishes, including the closing dish (shime). The dishes are designed to gently accompany the pace of the drinks. Even though it is an all-you-can-drink option, it does not create a raucous atmosphere. Under the indirect lighting of the private room, there is an air conducive to quiet conversation. The types and specific brands of alcohol can be tailored to the day's preferences. Some guests may prefer sake as the focus, while others might want to start with beer. Soft drinks are also available for those who are not fond of alcohol. It is pleasant to have the space to decide, "I'll stop here for today," once seated. Of course, the course content changes every month. Whether the gathering is for business or a casual year-end party, or if one wishes to create lasting memories of a night during their travels, a simple note when making a reservation can facilitate the arrangement for that evening. A quiet distance to walk to the night in Kume. The restaurant is located in Kume, Naha. It is about a 9-minute walk from Asahibashi Station, a short stroll through the night streets. Upon entering, the counter features 6 seats. The chef's hands are close, and the sounds of the knife and dishes touching can be heard. It is also suitable for solo dining. For nights that require conversation, there are two semi-private rooms, each accommodating up to 4 guests. For larger groups, a private room is available for up to 10 guests. The restaurant operates only in the evening from 18:00 to 23:00 (last order at 22:00). It is closed on Sundays and public holidays. Whether one is searching for Japanese cuisine in Naha or making it a travel destination, beginning at a not-too-late hour is just right. Reservations are accepted 24 hours a day through TableCheck, making it easy for overseas guests to plan without worrying about time differences. Due to the limited seating, the atmosphere in the restaurant is quiet. It is not drowned out by the noise of large parties. There is time to wait for the dishes while watching the water droplets slowly fall from the glass. I will answer briefly to your inquiries. I am often asked how to make a reservation. The online reservation through TableCheck is available 24 hours a day. For business meetings or anniversaries with fixed dates, early reservations are recommended for peace of mind. Phone reservations are also accepted. I am sometimes asked if the course content is fixed. The chef's selection changes monthly. If there are any disliked ingredients or allergies, please inform us at the time of reservation. We will make adjustments as much as possible. For details, please inquire during your visit or at the time of reservation. There have been increasing inquiries about whether English is spoken for overseas guests. We have menus available in English and Traditional Chinese, and basic English guidance is possible. We also accept payments with overseas-issued cards. The clear nights of November are suitable for shaping the contours of a meal. Whether it is a preliminary visit before a year-end party or a quiet night during a journey, if you are curious about the atmosphere of the seasonal appetizer platter, please add a note saying "counter seating preferred" when making your reservation. We will do our best to maintain the atmosphere from the moment you sit down. About Wa Banshaku Mine 📍 1-7-21 Akamine Building 1F 102, Kume, Naha City, Okinawa (approximately 9 minutes on foot 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 / Chef's selection 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) 🌏 Menus available in English / Traditional Chinese / Accepts overseas-issued cards / 24-hour online reservations via TableCheck ✨ Seigo Inamine — After ten years of training in renowned establishments in Kyoto-Gion, Tokyo, and Shizuoka, returning to my hometown of Okinawa. For reservations, please contact TableCheck or call 098-975-5673.