Story Title: Traditional Okinawan Cuisine
Episode 6
Broadcast Date: 25th January 2014
Presenters: Trevor Cochrane & Kim Syrus

Okinawan traditional food is absolutely a must-try. It’s always good to ask a local where to eat, and this restaurant - Ashibiuna in Naha, Okinawa, came highly recommended.

Surrounded by lush, meticulously maintained gardens, the restaurant was originally built as a family home 120 years ago. It was substantially bigger than the other houses of its time, reflecting the owner’s wealth and high status.

The aged tiled roof owes its oxide colouring to the iron-rich clays of the island. It’s a beautiful, unique feature of Okinawan architecture.

The uncomplicated house design of a single corridor, spanning the full length of the building, with rooms running off, suits the restaurant’s layout perfectly. Paper-covered sliding doors open to reveal rooms containing tatami mats, low table and locally inspired decorations and paintings.

Okinawa’s mild autumn weather makes outdoor dining a pleasure. The restaurant’s wide open veranda offers welcome shelter and a place to sit and relax. The garden at the restaurant is stunning and a pleasure to view while dining.

The restaurant offers traditional Okinawan food – and we tried braised pork, Okinawan noodle soup with slices of roast pork and local seaweed and fried local fish. This restaurant is a must-try when you are in Naha – not only for its delicious dishes, but for the most charming atmosphere.

www.royoji-family.co.jp
Email: ashibiuna@ryoji-family.co.jp

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