Okinawan dinner is nai-kanai

Hard to tell if the food served here is authentic Okinawan but for sure, the ones we had were tasty! The raw bittergourd salad may not suit those who hate eating raw vegetables but it was refreshing as an appetiser. The pork belly was soft and well seasoned, as was the rice. Noodles were cooked al dente while the purple tapioca ice cream was sweet but flat. There was a Kid's Beer option that was fun (it's actually apple soda packaged in a beer-like bottle). Will be back to try the other dishes!

I am assuming their dishes is adjusted to local taste, having tried the original dishes in Okinawa. This cuisine is not quite for those used to strong flavours. Some dishes have Chinese influence in the cooking method, like the braised pork. We ordered a variety of dishes to try, like braised pork, peanut beancurd, stir fried bitter gourd and sea caviar. Most are ok for the price point, which is a bit high. That said, we enjoyed the Aomori sake and Orion beer.

Wasn’t expecting much but wow was completely blown away by the authentic Japanese food here! Really fantastic stuff; great izakaya food plus regular mains as well. If ordering a lot can eventually add up to a hefty bill but good quality food guaranteed! Will definitely be back for more. Do try their braised pork belly — our favourite dish then!

Okinawan Diner Nirai-Kanai, a hidden gem nestled in Singapore, is a culinary haven for anyone craving authentic Okinawan cuisine. As a patron with a discerning palate for genuine Okinawan flavors, I can confidently say that Nirai-Kanai is perhaps the only restaurant in Singapore that truly captures the essence of Okinawa’s unique culinary culture. During my recent visit, the tastes transported me back to my time in Okinawa just last week, reflecting a remarkable authenticity in their dishes. The Okinawa Soba stood out with its rich, flavorful broth and perfectly cooked noodles. Equally impressive were the Goya Tempura and Grilled Beef, each dish showcasing the distinct flavors and ingredients native to Okinawa. The Fried Cheese Sticks, an unconventional yet delicious offering, added a delightful twist to the meal. One of the highlights of Nirai-Kanai is its pricing. The dishes are reasonably priced, making it an accessible option for a variety of diners. Additionally, their set menus are not only economical but also offer a great way to experience a range of Okinawan flavors. A unique feature of this diner is their homemade spicy sauce. Made from chillies pickled in Awamori, a traditional Okinawan liquor, this sauce adds an authentic and fiery kick to any dish. However, prospective diners should note the restaurant's operational hours. Nirai-Kanai closes after lunch at 2pm and reopens for dinner at 6pm. Due to its popularity and the limited seating, it’s advisable to arrive early to secure a spot and avoid the rush.

It was our first time eating here and we were blown away by the food, decor and vibes of the place. It was a hot day and the summer dishes and cold beer was refreshing and satisfying. The diner is very child-friendly, unlike most izakaya styled restaurants. Food was really fresh and we would definitely come back again! Be prepared to queue as the place can get quite busy during peak hours.

It's interesting to experience the Okinawan food. We enjoyed the refreshing cold noodle with pork belly slices ($15++) tossed in sesame sauce. We also ordered pan fried gyoza, grilled seasoned chicken thigh with salt on skewers, grilled mackerel and deep fried beancurd. Their portions were generous. The Okinawan beer Orion is light and refreshing🍺 It is recommended to make a reservation. Alternatively, it will be easier to get a table after 8pm Looking forward to try the Okinawan Seasoned Rice Ball, Cold Soft Beancurd & Okinawan Pancake on our next visit

The pork belly set meal was delicious! Soft melt-in-your-mouth. It doesn’t look like a lot (only 2 pieces) but if was more than enough to feel satisfied. This set was S$19++ which is a fair price. Free refill for barley tea during dinner S$1.90++ when you ask. Since I came alone on a Sunday evening around 6:30PM, I didn’t need to wait long (5 minutes), there is a little bar area where diners can sit alone (japan-style!). Service was quick and accommodating, I was able replace the peanut beancurd with pickles due to allergies. Will come back! Thank you 🙏🏻