With its tree-forms in twisted shapes dotted here and there throughout the space, Igokochiya has a cozy feel to it. I was amazed to find out that the shop’s counter, the tables and chairs, and even decorative items like the lamps and signboard are all handmade.

But of course, it is the food that is the forte here.
While the kushi-katsu features, Igokochiya presents a wide lineup of dishes from classic izakaya menu items to Okinawan and Chinese cuisine, and even dishes like California rolls that foreigners like so much.
The owner has many years of experience in cuisine and produces a large number of dishes that are rich with ideas. With hearty fare like rib steak and even a dish like the hugely popular negi-soba ramen featuring on the menu, Igokochiya is a convenient spot where food, alcohol, and everything else is taken care of all under the one roof.

The kushi-katsu, which is the star item on the menu, is eaten topped with a slightly sweet homemade sauce. Kushi-katsu come in varieties such as takasago (known as gurukun in Okinawan) flavored with pickled plums and shiso leaves, cherry tomato, cheese–bacon, and even the somewhat unusual tebichi (stewed pork feet).

If you’re at a loss for what to order, instead of wondering which kushi-katsu to go for and making a complicated mess of your order, we recommend that you ask for an assortment, leaving the selections up to the chef.

Another thing I would like to draw your attention to is the arm wrestling tournament, which is held once every two months.
Each time, strong guys from Kin or further afield come together to test out their skills.
“You’re kidding! That arm wrestling table, it has such a perfect finish. That can’t be handmade too, can it?” I asked,without thinking about it too much.
“No. Metal is something I cannot do,” quips the owner.

The owner’s favorite corner utilizes the space that is in front of the restroom.
There you will find his own handmade plaster shisa piggy bank.
The creative impulse has no limits.
The combination of red and white is really rather auspicious, don’t you think?

Do take yourself along to have some fun at Igokochiya, an izakaya that has lots of things to enjoy and that’s a bit different to all the rest.

Basic information

Address	2600 Yaka, Kin-cho, Kunigami-gun, Okinawa Prefecture
Car parking	Yes
Open Hours	6:00 p.m.–about 2:00 a.m. (last order 12:00 midnight) Sundays: 5:00 p.m.–about 10:00 p.m. (last order 9:00 p.m.)
Fixed Holidays	Mondays (negotiable, bookings OK)
Contact Details	Izakaya Igokochiya
Telephone	080-4079-7605