Okinawa Kinjo — Restaurant in Phra Khanong Nuea Subdistrict

Okinawa Kinjo Restaurant Review - พระโขนง

A legendary Okinawan restaurant that’s been around for years. Despite the challenging parking situation that keeps me from visiting more often, this place delivers an authentic experience worth the hassle.

What I Ordered

Udon with Pork Belly & Bitter Melon - Classic Okinawan specialties that hit all the right notes. The bitter melon (goya) is prepared perfectly, balancing the traditional flavors without being overwhelming.

Missed Opportunity: Didn’t get to try their Awamori (Okinawan sake made from long-grain or Thai rice) - definitely saving that for next time.

Atmosphere & Extras

The restaurant has that authentic, aged charm that only comes with time. Second floor hosts live music events - sometimes free, sometimes ticketed. Adds a nice cultural touch to the dining experience.

The Reality Check

Parking can be tricky. This is honestly the main reason I don’t come here more often, despite loving the food.

Bottom Line

Authentic Okinawan cuisine in Bangkok with genuine flavors and cultural atmosphere. The food quality and authenticity make up for the parking struggles.

Rating: 5/5 ⭐ Best for: Authentic Japanese food lovers, those seeking cultural dining experiences Heads up: Plan extra...

I have this restaurant on my list to visit, finally I was around the area and tried it. The place is quite small, but it has a 2nd floor and possibly a 3rd floor seating area. They have live music occasionally too.

I ordered Kimuchi, which has a strong squid or fishy flavor. Not for me. The Chicken Skin Yakitori was not for me. It was not crispy enough. I would skip it next time. The beef and pork cutlet Menchi Katsu was nice. With a dipping sauce. The Wagyu Yukke, it was OK. Nice chunk of beef. So far, nothing spectacular but it gets better. The Spicy Salmon roll was actually pretty good. But it was a big cut and not easy to eat. A bit less rice or thinner slices would make this dish a 5-star. Then comes the two highlights. The Okinawan Park Belly. That was really nice. The sauce was flavorful. With a little dip of mustard. Oishi! Then the next highlight, the Okinawan Pork Soup but with Thai Influence of Laeng Saeb. It looks like Laeng Saeb, but the soup flavor was unmistakably Japanese. So interesting. Not as sour and spicy as Laeng Saeb. That one...

I've been to this restaurant two times on recommendation from a friend. To be honest, when my food arrived it didn't look very good and I would've just settled for it being OK, but when I took the first taste of the Okinawa Soba noodles, I was blown away. The broth/soup was perfectly flavored and the pork just melted in my mouth.

The second time I went, I ordered a set that consisted of soba, rice, katsu, pasta salad, and what appeared to be kimchi. I left feeling very satisfied and for the money, it's a nice value, especially for Japanese food. (I think it was 210 baht or so)

The only criticism I have is that the dishes were served spread apart and what seemed a bit random between mine and my girlfriend's.

The interior has many postcard type of pictures and another thing that I appreciated was how quiet it is, despite there being a lot of people.

Verdict: I'm already looking forward to my next...