Sushi Sumeshi-yu — Restaurant in Naha

4.5-star in my view. The appetizers were very refreshing and the usage of slimy jelly texture for the sauce was actually very pleasing. The steamed oyster with lemon sauce was the first highlight of the meal. The oyster was cooked perfectly with juicy yet firm texture; the aromatic lemon sauce mixed the slight bitterness of lemon peel, and it neutralized the seafood’s strong flavors. Using strong fire to burn the tuna offered the fish a mixture of raw and cooked aroma, and the ginger brought out the umami of the tuna. I have always fancied hairtail fish but never thought about matching it with bitter melon, to my great surprise they matched very well with each other, and this is the first time in my life finding bitter melon pleasant. All the sushi were very fresh and paired with well prepared seasonings. For the choice of squid, they served a special big fin reef squid, which has a very unique texture compared to other squids, and offered a bit sweetness in its meat. The deep fried fish served in dry scallops broth in my opinion was a very fancy comfort food, I would definitely want a full meal only with this dish and rice. The sake pairing was delicately designed to match each dish, and they were generous on the portion I got for my Yamazaki 12-year. They even gave a complimentary Maki for us to take away, which was also very tasty. The only reason for me to rate it 4.5-star instead of 5-star was because they offered 3 rounds of optional add-ons for extra money, , 1 round add-on is acceptable but 3 rounds seemed too much; and we didn’t know about it beforehand (probably because of our lack of knowledge in Japanese language). It would be great if you could speak Japanese then you will have an even better experience by understanding the chef’s introduction...

Sushi Sumeshi-yu / A Chill Omakase in Okinawa / tabelog 3.51

My first omakase in Okinawa! I used to think Okinawa was short on good eats, but this trip turned up some cool spots with better value and fewer tourists than mainland JP. At 18,000 yen per person for an 8-piece sushi course plus extras, it’s super affordable.

Booking was easy through Tabelog, no deposit needed, and I always show up for reservations. The vibe isn’t your typical omakase setup—no L-shaped counter, just a straight bar. We were seated at the end, so we didn’t see much of the main chef’s prep. The chefs rocked casual clothes instead of traditional gear, keeping things relaxed. They offered add-ons during the meal, all at decent prices.

Both 赤酢めし and 白酢めし nailed the texture — sticky, chewy, with the right hit of sour and salt. The 中とろ (medium fatty tuna) and のどぐろ (blackthroat seaperch) were fresh and buttery. Loved the uni handroll with Okinawa’s 海ぶどう (sea grapes)—a nice nod to the island. The 唐墨の茶碗蒸し (mullet roe chawanmushi) was silky, and the shrimp broth soup was a cozy finisher. Apple pie and vanilla ice cream wrapped it up simply. Wine pairing was cheap and worked well with the food. A laid-back, wallet-friendly omakase worth...

One of the best omakase experiences you can have in Okinawa. Went with their omakase course with mixed wine and sake pairing and it was delightful with carefully selected alcohol that enhanced the flavours of each dish. Dishes were meticulously prepared and were amazing in both presentation and taste. Despite having limited English, the staff were attentive and tried their best to explain the dishes served. At the end of the meal the chef ensured we did not leave empty handed with a delicious roll as a take home present. If you are looking for a place to experience the best Japan has to offer, I highly recommend this place.

P.s The restaurant can be difficult to find as it is located on the second floor of a building accessible only through a staircase in an alleyway. But you won't miss the gorgeous entrance once you get to the...