Point 1: ‘JOJO’S Southern Italian Home Cooking Bar’ Location
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Naha’s main street, Kokusai Street. During the day, it bustles with tourists browsing for souvenirs, and at night, it’s filled with neon lights and the sound of sanshin music. But venture just a little way down any alley, and the atmosphere changes completely.
There, quietly tucked away, is ‘JOJO’S Southern Italian Home Cooking Bar’. It’s located in a corner of Matsuo, a spot that’s a bit hard to find, so first-time visitors might get lost. But don’t worry.
Naha locals are incredibly kind; ask for directions and they’ll smile and say, “Just turn there and it’s right away.” Some might even walk you there themselves.
This warm-hearted local spirit is part of the fun of finding the place. That little sense of accomplishment when you do discover it will surely make your dining experience even richer.
Opening the door reveals a cozy arrangement of counter and table seats, filled with a warm atmosphere reminiscent of a southern Italian home. It’s always packed with reservations, so booking ahead is recommended.
If you really want to drop in without a reservation, terrace seats are often available. Dining while feeling the city breeze adds its own charm.
It’s just a 15-minute drive from Naha Airport. There is no parking lot, but numerous coin-operated parking lots are available nearby.
For non-car access:
– From Yui Rail’s “Miebashi Station,” it’s a 10-minute walk.
– Take Tokyo Bus (TK01) to the “Kokusai-dori Iriguchi” (Terminus) stop, then walk 11 minutes.
– Take Ryukyu Bus routes 120 or 28 and get off at “Hotel Collective Mae.” It’s about a 2-minute walk from there.
From Kokusai Street, turn into the road between Hotel Collective and Hotel Lantana, then follow the small path after turning right at the “Leopalace” building. If you’ve only ever walked along Kokusai Street, it might be a little tricky to find.
Point 2: Introducing the Menu at ‘JOJO’S Southern Italian Home Cooking Bar’
(Photo: Assorted dishes from Calabria)
This restaurant’s charm lies in pleasantly subverting the typical image of Italian cuisine—think pizza and carbonara. Instead, it serves home-style dishes centered around southern Italy’s Calabria region.
Forget the flashy, tourist-trap fare everyone knows. Here, you savor the simple yet robust flavors passed down through generations at local dining tables.
While dishes can be ordered à la carte, the best choice when unsure is the “recommended platter” or the “chef’s selection course.” The fun lies in discovering unexpected dishes you might not have chosen yourself, exclaiming, “I didn’t know this dish existed!”
Particularly popular is the platter showcasing traditional dishes from Calabria, all on one plate. Colorful appetizers like olives, cheese, ham, and vegetables are arranged beautifully, creating a dish that feels like a slice of southern Italy captured on a plate.
Prices are reasonable, too. The five-course chef’s selection for ¥3,300 offers incredibly satisfying value. And the wine is surprisingly affordable at just ¥400 per glass.
Even the house wine is authentic, perfectly complementing the flavors of the food. It’s the kind of glass that makes you want to order another. It’s no wonder regulars make the trip from Nago—the cost-performance is undeniable.
Point 3: Introducing Recommended Dishes from ‘JOJO’S Southern Italian Home Cooking Bar’
Among them, you absolutely must try the “Nonna’s Pasta Recipe.” Nonna means “grandmother” in Italian. This dish faithfully recreates the flavors passed down through generations in home kitchens. Simple yet deeply rich, each bite evokes a sense of nostalgia.
For locals, it’s an everyday taste; for us living in Japan, it’s a fresh surprise. It’s a special pasta that combines the appeal of both worlds.
Another must-try is the “Calabria Platter.” Packed onto one plate, this dish features an array of colorful appetizers and meat dishes, transporting you to southern Italy.
Each bite offers a different flavor profile, pairing perfectly with wine. Savoring it in the casual atmosphere of a bar enhances its deliciousness even more.
The “Chef’s Selection Course” offers another appeal: not just pasta, but also small portions of stews, seafood dishes, and more. Perfect for solo diners, but sharing with a group naturally sparks conversation, making the table as lively as a southern Italian family gathering.
You’ll also find simple, deeply flavorful dolci (desserts) like cannoli and zeppole – treats known only to the initiated in Japan!
Step away from the hustle of Kokusai Street and discover southern Italian home cooking at this beloved local hideaway. This unique experience is only possible at JOJO’S Southern Italian Home Cooking Bar in Naha.
Drop by during your Okinawa trip, and you’ll not only encounter new flavors but also feel the warmth of the people and the charm of the city even more deeply.
