About a minute’s drive from Naha Airport. This is a “Maze-men” restaurant located in Makishi, Naha City. When it comes to noodles in Okinawa, it used to be all about Okinawa soba, but recently, restaurants serving noodles other than Okinawa soba have been increasing. Among them, this ‘Maze-men Bar Tamaru’ is a dark horse contender.
Point 1: ‘Maze-men Bar Tamaru’
Maze-men Bar Tamaru
Located on the prefectural office side of Kokusai Street, Naha’s central thoroughfare, it quietly stands tucked away in an area slightly set back from the main road bustling with tourists.
Step off the lively Kokusai Street into an alley, and you’ll find a calm atmosphere frequented by locals, where the shop resides. Its charm lies in being conveniently located for a casual stop during sightseeing, yet possessing a somewhat hidden gem-like ambiance.
From the outside, it looks like an ordinary eatery, but once you open the door, a unique world dedicated to “Maze Noodles” unfolds. Easily accessible from famous hotels in Naha City, it’s a popular spot not only among local regulars but also highly regarded by tourists.
Approximately 14 minutes by car from Naha Airport.
If not by car, take the Yui Rail to “Kencho-mae Station” and walk for 8 minutes.
Point 2: The signature dish at Maze-men Bar Tamaru is “Maze-men.”
The signature dish at Maze-Men Bar Tamaru is undoubtedly their “Maze-men.” And at just 800 yen, it’s incredibly affordable.
Yet it’s packed with an astonishingly generous amount of toppings, making its value for money truly remarkable.
Topping the bowl are eggplant, garlic chives, tomato, raw onion, green onion, crisp lotus root, fragrant garlic chips, and a glossy egg yolk sitting proudly in the center. While this is the classic style for mazemen, the vibrant colors of the vegetables make it a visually appealing dish too.
The eating method is simple. First, mix everything vigorously, then enjoy the noodles coated with all the toppings. The softness of the eggplant, the crunch of the lotus root, the tang of the tomato, and the aroma of the garlic chives—each ingredient’s character harmonizes beautifully, revealing a different flavor profile with every bite.
Adding the egg yolk further rounds out the dish, creating a mellow finish that keeps it enjoyable right down to the last bite.
And the delightful bonus? The complimentary “extra rice” or “extra tofu” is served at the end. The moment you mix rice or tofu into the flavorful sauce left at the bottom of your bowl after finishing the mixed noodles is a unique pleasure exclusive to this shop.
Being able to savor every last bit is undoubtedly one reason why this place keeps customers coming back.
Point 3: What other menu items does ‘Maze-men Bar Tamaru’ offer?
Golden Ramen Source: Google Maps
『Maze Noodle Bar Tamaru』
As its name suggests, Maze Noodle Bar Tamaru specializes in mixed noodles, but that’s not all. In fact, its ramen also enjoys an excellent reputation. Particularly, the “Kugani Ramen” and soy sauce ramen are so popular that they’re talked about among ramen enthusiasts in Okinawa.
The soup is clear yet richly flavorful, offering an elegant finish that delivers a different kind of deliciousness compared to the mixed noodles.
The pork belly topping the ramen is truly noteworthy. Slow-cooked to tenderness, it bursts with flavor in your mouth. The fat melts beautifully without feeling heavy, making it delicious right to the last bite.
The combination of noodles, soup, and this pork belly is likely why even customers coming for the mixed noodles often end up ordering the ramen too.
Furthermore, “Maze-men Bar Tamaru” has been featured on the popular TV program ‘Matsuko’s Unknown World’, earning national recognition for its quality.
This spot is perfect for travelers in Okinawa seeking a slightly more sophisticated gourmet experience. It stands apart from the typical tourist-oriented Okinawan cuisine, offering a new, locally rooted taste experience.
In the evening, it also functions as a bar, making it a great spot to enjoy mixed noodles with a drink in hand. Whether you want to savor it as a full meal or stop by casually for a second round, its flexibility to suit any occasion is part of its charm.
Located in Makishi, Naha, “Maze Men Bar Tamaru” is a hidden gem tucked away from Kokusai Street. It’s a renowned establishment beloved for its abundant toppings and unique flavors.
The signature Maze-men noodles are reasonably priced at 800 yen, yet offer high satisfaction, allowing you to enjoy everything down to the final rice topping or tofu.
The lineup also includes Golden Ramen and Shoyu Ramen, boasting a quality that impresses ramen enthusiasts. Why not add this nationally recognized, award-winning flavor to your Naha travel itinerary?
