About a 40-minute drive from Naha Airport. This vegan-friendly curry restaurant is located in the central part of Okinawa City, in the middle of Okinawa Island. Their specialty is the two-curry combo, where you choose two out of four varieties—most people order it! It’s spicy, but the flavor is addictive. Another feature is their selection of vegan drinks like lassi and chai.
Point 1: The location of “Palmyra”
Palmira, located in central Okinawa City, is a spice curry restaurant quietly nestled in the heart of the city. Situated amidst the bustling streets of Koza, its exterior has a somewhat mysterious air, creating an atmosphere that makes you want to stop and take a look.
Upon entering the restaurant, the first thing that reaches your ears is the carefully curated background music. Unique tunes, unconstrained by genre, play, blending with the lighting and interior to create a world unlike any other. Palmira’s charm lies in transcending the typical curry shop experience, transporting you to a foreign land.
While there is no dedicated parking lot, diners receive a voucher for one hour of free parking at a staffed lot. This is a welcome perk, especially since many visitors to the Koza area arrive by car. Combined with its prime central location, it’s an easy stop for both tourists and locals.
From Naha Airport, it’s about 40 minutes via the Okinawa Expressway.
By bus, take Ryukyu Bus Route 190 or the Naha Airport Limousine Bus and get off at the “Goya” stop, then it’s a 2-minute walk.
Being able to get there on one bus without transfers is a definite plus!
Point 2: Introducing the “Palmyra” Menu
Palmira’s signature dish is undoubtedly its spicy curry. Among these, the two-curry combo plate is popular with both regulars and first-time visitors.
At ¥1,350, the price might seem a bit steep, but one bite will convince you why. The deep blend of spices and flavors that maximize the ingredients’ natural qualities delivers satisfaction beyond the price tag.
With four or more curries available daily, including a daily special, you can combine any two of your favorites. Alongside staples like pork and chicken curry, vegan options are also part of the lineup.
Many are surprised at how delicious it can be without meat, making Palmira a place everyone can enjoy regardless of dietary preferences.
Beyond curry, desserts and drinks are also abundant. Desserts include RAW tarts, featuring healthy creations using chocolate and fruit. Their guilt-free sweetness enhances the post-meal satisfaction.
Drinks range from lassi and chai—perfect companions for curry—to vegan lassi and even beer, making the menu suitable for both lunch and dinner.
Point 3: “Palmira” and Recommended Menu Items
The standout recommendation is undoubtedly the “Two-Curry Combo.” Each curry blends multiple spices, boasting its own distinct character, so you can’t go wrong with any choice.
Enjoying two varieties in one dish makes it especially perfect for first-timers. You can experience both the rich, savory flavors of pork or chicken curry and the lightness of a vegan curry made with vegetables and beans all at once—truly embodying the Palmira dining experience.
After your meal, be sure to try the RAW tart. Made with minimal wheat and sugar, using nuts and fruit as a base, it’s visually stunning and offers the perfect refreshing contrast after spicy curry. It also pairs exceptionally well with lassi or chai, making it an ideal way to finish your meal.
Palmira isn’t just a place to fill your stomach; it offers visitors an experience. It’s unique atmosphere, spice-forward cuisine, and extensive menu that accommodates vegan preferences.
And enjoying curry while enveloped in pleasant music creates a special moment, a brief escape from the everyday. If you find yourself in central Okinawa City, this distinctive, renowned restaurant is definitely worth a visit.
