Ishigaki may be known for its pristine beaches and crystal clear waters but this Okinawan island’s food scene certainly hasn’t stayed behind. For a relatively small island there is a large variety of cuisines to be had and there is no lack of great restaurant options.
Whether you’re craving some freshly caught seafood, tasty fusion dishes or a cut of Ishigaki beef, the island delivers! Read on for my recommendations for all of the best restaurants in Ishigaki.
La Bugaloo
One of my favourite eats of my entire Japan trip was this little pan-Latin restaurant right in Ishigaki center called La Bugaloo.
This place is run by a couple and they manage the whole place between the two of them. Though it’s not a huge restaurant, I imagine at times the wait time can get significant with only one person cooking and the other managing the service.
The interior at La Bugaloo is colorful yet cozy and the owners are very friendly. And most important, the food is very much worth it: wholesome and full of flavor! Definitely one of the best restaurants in Ishigaki I encountered.
📍La Bugaloo
Meat Bar Butcher Trico
I’ll admit the wait staff was friendly but not particularly efficient at this place. Both the atmosphere and the food however made up for whatever shortcomings the service may have had.
Ordering was a bit cumbersome with only one English menu available (though I really have no right to complain as many establishments on the island will have none) and getting hold of someone to take our order was equally challenging.
We were sat at one of the outside tables and after these minor hurdles though, it was nice to sit back and enjoy the dinner time busyness in the area. If you’re craving a steak or burger this place will do the trick!
If you prefer an inside table, the back section opens up to a green forest area. Here you can dine with jungle vibes and a tropical view.
📍Meat Bar Butcher Trico
730 Scramble
If you’re not in the mood for a full sit down meal 730 Scramble might be the perfect place for a light meal or drinks accompanied by some snacks. It is next door to Meat Bar Butcher Trico with a small but appealing outside seating area with high top tables and bar stools.
At this bar you can enjoy creative cuisine using ingredients sourced from the island itself and local drinks such as Orion beer.
The vibe is lively and laidback plus the location is perfect for some people watching.
📍730 Scramble
Il Pozzo
If you were put off by the idea of a two (wo)man restaurant, definitely don’t visit Il Pozzo. This Italian place is run by one man and one man alone!
There was some waiting involved as expected and I actually felt stressed for the poor man. However, he miraculously managed to serve several tables at the same time, taking orders, serving drinks, cooking and processing payments.
With a limited menu, the food was giving homecooked meal vibes. The mismatched dinner plates added to the homey atmosphere and I almost felt like I was invited over to a local’s living room to have dinner.
After translating the menu I decided to try my first ever duck pasta and it was tasty indeed. If you’re not in a rush and craving some Italian, Il Pozzo is a great option.
📍Il Pozzo
Float
Supposedly one of the best restaurants in Ishigaki to serve taco rice, I was excited try this Okinawan delicacy. Unfortunately, a nearby typhoon visiting the area before raging on to Taiwan completely spoilt my plans.
Float comes highly recommended with a 4.8 star Google rating but since it is right on the water, the restaurant owner took precautions and closed for the evening. Any non-typhoon approaching day, it should be heavenly to have a taco rice or some nachos here while watching the sunset.
The menu is limited to a few taco rice variations (also a vegan option), chili con carne and nachos, so make sure everyone in your party is up for this before you arrive!
I hope to return to Ishigaki one day to have the privilege of enjoying a meal at Float.
📍Float
Le Dodo
Another restaurant that was high on my list of great Ishigaki restaurants, but I also didn’t get to visit is Le Dodol. This restaurant near Kabira Bay serves Mauritian cuisine with some Japanese twists.
You can try specials such as octopus kimchi, Mauritius style yakisoba or chicken curry. The restaurant interior is cozy and stylish though not very big.
After a day of exploring the Kabira Bay area Le Dodo is the perfect place to stop by and enjoy a hearty meal. However, they are not open all day everyday so do check before coming so you won’t be left hungry and disappointed.
📍Le Dodo
If you need more Ishigaki inspiration check out best things to do in Ishigaki.
