Okinawa Japanese Cuisine

Overview

When you’re in Denver and craving something unique and flavorful, Okinawa Japanese Cuisine is a must-visit spot. Nestled in the heart of the city at 2301 E Colfax Ave, Denver, CO 80206, United States, this restaurant brings a taste of Okinawa to the vibrant food scene of Colorado. If you’re unfamiliar with Okinawan food, it’s a wonderful departure from the typical Japanese dishes you may have encountered, offering a rich variety of flavors, textures, and culinary traditions.

Okinawa, the southernmost prefecture in Japan, is renowned for its healthy and distinctive cuisine, which blends local ingredients with centuries-old techniques. At Okinawa Japanese Cuisine, the menu offers a perfect blend of this unique island fare, from hearty stews to fresh seafood, all prepared with precision and care. One of the highlights is their Okinawa soba, a noodle dish that’s far more than just a soup-it's an experience in itself. The rich broth, tender pork, and chewy noodles come together in a comforting bowl that transports you straight to the tropics of Japan.

The restaurant does a fantastic job of presenting the classic Okinawan dishes with a modern twist. Whether you’re in the mood for a delicious goya champuru (a stir-fry made with bitter melon, tofu, and pork) or want to try something more adventurous like rafute (braised pork belly), the flavors are as authentic as they come. And if you’ve never had bitter melon before, you might be surprised at how it pairs beautifully with the sweet and savory flavors in the dish.

Another stand-out is the fresh seafood selection, which reflects Okinawa’s coastal nature. You’ll find sashimi that’s not just a treat for the taste buds, but also for the eyes. Each piece is delicately sliced, showing off the freshness and vibrant colors. If you’re a fan of seafood, be sure to check out their okinawa tataki or grilled fish, both of which highlight the ocean’s bounty.

The atmosphere at Okinawa Japanese Cuisine is just as inviting as its menu. The interior combines traditional Japanese decor with a modern, comfortable setting. Whether you’re seated at the bar, enjoying the sushi preparation up close, or dining at a table with friends, the atmosphere adds to the overall experience. The staff is friendly, knowledgeable, and eager to explain the dishes, ensuring that even first-timers can navigate the menu without feeling overwhelmed.

While the menu is filled with traditional Okinawan dishes, there’s also room for contemporary fusion dishes. It’s clear that the chefs here are well-versed in both the heritage of Okinawan cuisine and the modern culinary scene, giving them the flexibility to create unique dishes that stand out without straying too far from tradition. The balance between authenticity and creativity makes this a dining experience unlike any other.

Okinawa Japanese Cuisine has garnered positive reviews for its consistency in delivering quality food and for providing a dining experience that feels both homey and special. Whether you're a long-time fan of Okinawan cuisine or simply looking for something new and different, this place never disappoints. It’s perfect for a casual meal with friends, a date night, or even a celebratory dinner. The vibrant flavors and fresh ingredients shine through in every dish, leaving a lasting impression.

There’s no need to travel all the way to Japan’s southern islands when you can enjoy the rich flavors of Okinawa right here in Denver. With a diverse menu, excellent service, and a warm atmosphere, Okinawa Japanese Cuisine offers a taste of Japan’s beautiful islands that’s hard to beat. If you're ready to try something different, head to 2301 E Colfax Ave and prepare to be delighted by the culinary gems that await.

Good to know

Service options

âś“ Outdoor seating âś“ No-contact delivery âś“ Delivery âś“ Takeaway âś“ Dine-in

Accessibility

âś“ Wheelchair-accessible entrance âś“ Wheelchair-accessible toilet

Offerings

âś“ Alcohol âś“ Beer âś“ Cocktails âś“ Happy-hour drinks âś“ Happy-hour food âś“ Organic dishes âś“ Small plates âś“ Spirits âś“ Vegetarian options âś“ Wine

Dining options

âś“ Lunch âś“ Dinner âś“ Dessert âś“ Seating

Amenities

âś“ Toilet

Planning

âś“ Accepts reservations

Payments

âś“ Credit cards âś“ Debit cards âś“ NFC mobile payments âś“ Credit cards

Children

âś“ High chairs

Parking

âś“ Free of charge street parking âś“ Free parking lot âś“ Parking

Photos

Location

Reviews

- No ratings yet 758 reviews
Amazing 514
Great 130
Okay 33
Not Great 12
Terrible 69
Ashanti Johnson (RedQueen)

Such a great find! We had an assortment of sushi, the red snapper, and the chicken katsu which we devoured before I could remember to take a picture LOL. Everything was delicious. The portion sizes for entrees was quite generous and we'll definitely be back again.

Sam Green

This was the first sushi restaurant I went to over a decade ago and I keep coming back for a reason! The nigiri is incredible, especially the salmon, with large portions of fish. I also enjoy the hako and sandwich rolls which are unique and delicious addition to the menu that sets Okinawa apart. The servers are always very friendly and attentive and there is never a wait. This place is a staple on East Colfax and I hope it stays for many more years to come.

Josh Jaarsma

My mother in law has been raving about this place for a while and we finally went! Wonderful staff that were quick to greet us when we arrived. Clean space with beautiful tables and art. Parking is street only and a bit funky with the construction but worth walking to. The lunch special was not disappointing at all. Hot saki was delicious too!

Nikki Boudreaux

They’re always super nice when I come in the food is amazing and it’s very relaxing inside. The food is very fresh and they have really good prices!

Janice Formichella

Such a fun date night spot. Unique rolls and such friendly staff. Great hot sake - worth thinking about all day .

Mike Fritz

Great portion loved the variety of the lunch box. Only issue was that some of the lettuce and veg was wet which watered down the salad dressing and teriyaki sauce.

Mark Rubinson

I have been going to this place very frequently lately. The staff only adds to the comfort. What I have had recently and truly enjoyed has been the: seaweed salad and everything else on the “daily special” menu. The tuna and salmon sashimi is delectable as well. A couple nights ago was my favorite sushi roll I’ve had in quite some time…

Kimbely Concepcion

Amazing service, atmosphere and the sushi was definitely the star! I had the Coco roll and edamame as a starter along with some great sake! Coming from the springs, next time I stop in Denver, I'm not gonna be able to resist and crave this food again! Definitely will be coming back.

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