虾虾饭 — Restaurant in Nakijin

We went on a full free-and-easy road trip around Okinawa during summer, and one of our stops was at Kouri Island, where we stayed at Away Okinawa Kouri Island Resort. Since we arrived late, we quickly headed out for a late lunch at Kouri Shrimp, as we were told they close at 4 p.m.

Fortunately, there weren’t many people in the queue, and the ordering system was automated through a touchscreen machine, which made it easy and efficient. The menu is simple, offering four types of garlic shrimp—Original, Spicy, Butter, and Spicy & Butter—all served with rice. You can also add sides like fries, roast chicken, or wagyu beef. They serve local drinks as well, and we went with the fizzy ones.

Outside the restaurant, there’s a decorative van with their logo, perfect for an Instagram shot. The dining area is upstairs, with both indoor and outdoor seating on the first level. We chose the air-conditioned indoor section—much needed for the summer heat! The shrimps were fresh, flavorful, and perfectly cooked.

If you head up to the second level, you’ll find an uncovered open space where you can also dine while enjoying stunning views of the Kouri Bridge.

If you’re visiting Kouri Island, this is definitely one dining spot you...

Seems to be the most popular restaurant on the island. Decent shrimp with garlic sauce but nothing to rave about either. Their fries are actually the positive surprise here. It would get a 4 star if it wasn't for the insane wait of 30+ minutes for essentially a one item menu. Sure the place was very very busy but still doesn't explain the wait for such a one item menu. Other restaurants further in the island do better for...

Wow wow wow. This is by far the best shrimp I've had in Okinawa. So much so, I had to buy a t-shirt to set me aside from all the Orion Beer tees. This is something I wanted to celebrate and never forget! Staff were super lovely and Make sure you check out their third level...