🥢 Machigwa (町小, “Machigwa”) — Okinawa Soba with Tempura in Itoman

If you like hidden-gem eateries, Machigwa is the kind of spot you’ll love. Tucked away in Itoman, it doesn’t look like a typical restaurant from the outside, but step in and you’ll find a cozy, quirky world with plenty of local charm.

Image credit: Google Maps

Atmosphere

Inside, you’ll spot sumo ranking charts and posters on the wall—and even a little “Kuidaore Taro” figure by the shrine. It’s playful and very Okinawan. Seating is simple with a few tables plus a counter; the vibe is relaxed and friendly.

Image credit: Google Maps

Image credit: Google Maps

Menu Highlights

You’ll find classic Okinawa soba plus some fun extras. Items like “Yankee Soba” (a playful name) and “Oni-Koro Musubi” (rice ball + croquette) stand out, and there are also tempura and even sweets like fried bread. The range is wider than your usual noodle shop.

One surprise: they also serve sashimi—a nice bonus if you want something light and fresh alongside your noodles.

Image credit: Google Maps

What I Ordered

I went for the limited Yushi Dofu Soba (yushi dofu = fresh, soft tofu). The broth has real depth; crunchy bits of tempura flakes with mozuku seaweed add a toasty note; the silky tofu stays light; a dash of cracked pepper lifts the flavor; and the seared pork belly ties it together without overpowering the noodles. It’s balanced and comforting—an easy clean-bowl moment.

Image credit: Google Maps

Essential Info

• Address: 2277-6 Itoman, Itoman City, Okinawa (沖縄県糸満市糸満2277-6)
• Hours: Weekdays 11:00–~17:30 / Saturday 11:00–~16:30
  *Okinawa soba served until about 15:00. Hours can vary; check their Instagram before you go.
• Closed: Irregular
• What they serve: Okinawa soba, sashimi, tempura, “Oni-Koro” rice ball + croquette, fried bread, and more

Official Instagram

Access

Traveler Tips

• Pronunciation: “Machigwa” (mah-chee-gwah). The small ゎ reads “gwa,” a classic Okinawan touch.
• Timing: Soba is only served until about 3:00 PM—go for lunch, not dinner.
• Cash: Some small eateries in Okinawa lean cash-first. Bring some cash just in case.

Verdict

A friendly, offbeat soba shop with personality—plus extras like tempura and sashimi. The Yushi Dofu Soba is a standout if you like clean, comforting flavors with a bit of texture and depth. Hidden-gem vibes, very local, and well worth a lunchtime stop in Itoman.