HOTEL RESOL TRINITY NAHA is within walking distance of Kokusai-dori, one of Okinawa's most popular places. Just a short walk away, in an alleyway, is a hidden izakaya called "Ajito x Sakanagura ATEZOU," where you can enjoy Japanese sake and Okinawan ingredients.

A hidden izakaya where you will be greeted by a chef with extensive sake knowledge

"Compared to other types of alcohol, sake has the distinct feature that its taste varies greatly depending on the type. There are very sweet types, spicy types, and fruity types that are easy to drink. There is a wide variety. Even with the same type of sake, the taste can change greatly depending on the temperature at which it is drunk and how it is drunk. It also changes depending on whether you drink it by itself or pair it with a meal. These kinds of changes are very fascinating."

These are the words of Nakaima, the head chef of "Ajito Brewery and Sake Bar ATEZOU." Previously working at a sake specialty store, he exudes deep knowledge and passion for sake.

"My boss at the specialty store where I used to work was of the opinion that if you're a salesperson at a store that sells sake, you have to have a solid grasp of sake knowledge. In addition to acquiring basic knowledge about sake, I also had the opportunity to visit sake breweries and observe how sake is made."

Nakaima is putting that experience to good use at "Ajito Brewery and Sake Bar x Sakanagura ATEZOU." In fact, this restaurant just reopened in February 2024. Previously, it was called "Ajito Brewery and Sake Bar" and mainly sold sake and wine. After the renovation, the restaurant offers a menu that allows customers to immerse themselves in the charm of sake, led by Nakaima, who has a wealth of knowledge about sake.

The mariage of Okinawan ingredients and sake

The restaurant has a relaxed atmosphere, with counter and table seats. Looking over the wall, you'll see a wide selection of intriguing menu items.

"The food is centered around fresh fish and sashimi platters, as well as snacks that go well with sake. We use seasonal ingredients from a fishmonger in Okinawa."

One of the most popular dishes is the "Selectable Four-piece Sake Appetizer Platter" (1,280 yen), which allows you to choose four dishes from a selection of eight appetizers that go perfectly with sake.

They also have an all-you-can-drink sake menu for those who want to try a variety of sakes. The sake lineup changes depending on the time of year, so you can enjoy a fresh experience no matter what season you visit.

And although the main focus of the shop is sake, this is unmistakably Okinawa, and they also value the unique local flavors.

"In addition to sake, we also have awamori. We also offer awamori soda mix "Kiku no Tsuyu akari" and "Shimauta Highball," which are popular in Okinawa recently," says Nakaima. When you come to the store, you can enjoy Okinawan-style drinks along with the sake you are used to drinking.

Feel free to drop by during your break from work or sightseeing.

"Ajito Brewery and Bar x Sakanagura ATEZOU" is not only popular with local regulars, but also with many visitors from outside the prefecture.

"There are many stores in Naha that sell sake, but not many that have such a wide selection. Maybe that's why so many people come here after searching for 'Naha sake.' We also have counter seating, so many people come alone. We try to create an atmosphere that's comfortable even for women to come alone," says Nakaima.

It's about a 7-minute walk from Miebashi Station on the Okinawa Monorail. One of its charms is that it's close enough to drop in easily during a break from work or sightseeing.

"We can also give advice on sake, so please feel free to come and have a drink," says Nakaima, whose words are filled with the spirit of hospitality that makes even those new to sake feel at ease when visiting.

Avoid the hot Okinawa sun and enjoy a glass of sake in a cool, refreshing atmosphere. At Brewery Ajito x Sakanagura ATEZOU, you'll likely find a new way to enjoy Okinawa.

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Brewery Ajito × Sakanagura ATEZOU

電話：098-987-6619 

Address: 1-11-1 Makishi, Naha City, Okinawa Prefecture, 900-0013

Access: 7 minutes walk from Miebashi Station

SNS: https://www.instagram.com/azyto_naha/
*For details on business hours and holidays, please check the link above.