Soul: Farewell Okinawa

Rinsho Kadekaru - Jidai no Nagare

Final day in Okinawa. We went souvenir shopping and buying snacks for friends and family. Strangely, it was done pretty quickly, so we had extra time. We were able to explore the pottery streets of Yachi Mun, had top notch green tea shaved ice, Jimmy’s for cake and went to an art museum. However, the real cherry on top was going to Hanagasa Shokudo (a soki soba restaurant pictured above).

Soki soba is a simple noodle dish with a pork broth. Something so simple but with so much character. The restaurant hasn’t changed since the 70s but is still has a steady engine and is as clean as a whistle. The spirits of yesteryear permeate the atmosphere as guests drift in and out having truly soulful food.

The Inari Sushi (the accompanying dish on the left) was so full of spirit and heart, it felt like it was made by my grandmother (if she were Japanese). I could taste every grain of rice, each was individual, and the vinegar and flavour was so smooth, I simply couldn’t rush it. I honestly was nearly brought to tears as the sushi spoke to me and reminded me of my family. I am not Japanese, but I am one for food this down to Earth that can bring me to childhood and remind me of the important things in life. The noodles were perfect as well, and all the elements of the dish were in harmony.

This reached deep into my soul. Thank you.