By 日本ものがたり食堂
This documentary-style video provides an intimate look at “Izumi Soba,” a renowned Okinawa soba restaurant nestled in the lush, tropical environment of Motobu, Okinawa (伊豆味そば, Motobu, Kunigami District, Okinawa). The film closely follows the husband-and-wife owners, revealing the inspiration behind the restaurant’s opening, their day-to-day challenges, and their passion for delivering authentic Okinawa soba experiences.
The video covers the entire soba-making process, from preparing the broth (出汁) to handcrafting noodles using a traditional noodle machine. Viewers learn about the differences between Okinawa soba and other noodle dishes like udon, along with details of the specialty toppings such as soki (braised pork rib) and sanmai niku (three-layer pork belly). Attention is also given to side dishes like juushii (Okinawan seasoned rice) and goya (bitter melon) in sweet vinegar, offering a comprehensive look at the menu.
The film highlights the restaurant’s unique location, surrounded by subtropical rainforests, and shows how the couple sources ingredients and adapts to local life. Stories about their backgrounds, the struggles of opening and running the restaurant, their family—including mentions of their children and the restaurant’s mascot dog—as well as customer reactions and interviews, add personal depth. Insights into local food culture such as the use of koregusu (Okinawan chili pepper sauce) and the importance of handcrafted tableware are also covered.
Izumi Soba stands out for its commitment to quality and authenticity, making it a must-visit destination for soba enthusiasts visiting Motobu, Okinawa. The video also serves as a useful guide to regional Okinawan cuisine for travelers seeking local flavor beyond tourist hotspots.