Restaurant Bon Appetit at Hotel JAL City Naha (Location: Makishi, Naha City, Okinawa Prefecture; General Manager: Genshichiro Nakanishi) will launch a renewed dinner course starting January 15, 2026 (Thursday). The new "Ryukyu French Course" showcases Okinawan ingredients prepared using French culinary techniques.
Concept: Okinawan Ingredients Meet French Technique
The "Ryukyu French Course" highlights local ingredients from Okinawa, using French techniques to bring out their natural flavors. The menu features fresh fish caught in Okinawan waters, locally-raised pork, island vegetables, brown sugar, and other signature ingredients from the region. Guests can experience the bounty of Okinawa through all five senses, from the flavors and aromas to the presentation of each dish.
The course is designed to celebrate the unique character of seasonal ingredients, with each plate offering an authentic taste of Okinawa. Whether deepening your appreciation for the island's cuisine during your travels or discovering familiar ingredients in new forms, diners can enjoy their own journey of culinary discovery.
Specially Selected Pairings
Drink pairings have been carefully selected to complement the cuisine, including both wine and awamori (Okinawan distilled spirit). The awamori pairing was curated under the supervision of Erika Maedomari, the 37th Awamori Queen and a certified Awamori Meister recognized by the Okinawa Governor. Each selection is chosen to harmonize with the flavors and aromas of the dishes, matching the delicate sauces and precise cooking techniques of French cuisine with the aromatic qualities and finish of awamori.
For guests who prefer non-alcoholic options, the restaurant also offers mocktails (non-alcoholic cocktails) made with Okinawan ingredients and seasonal produce.
Additionally, live piano performances will enhance the dining atmosphere on Fridays and Sundays. Guests can enjoy a relaxing evening where Okinawan ingredients and French techniques come together.
"Ryukyu French Course" Menu
Period: January 15, 2026 (Thursday) – February 28, 2026 (Saturday)
◆ Jellied Okinawan Pork and Vegetables with Shikuwasa-Flavored Mayonnaise Sauce and Microherb Salad
◆ Okinawan Vegetable Cream Soup, Parisian Style
◆ Recommended Fresh Fish Roast, Ryukyu-Style Viennoise with Sauce Duglere
◆ Poêlé of Domestic Beef Fillet with Colorful Vegetable Garden Garnish, Red Wine Sauce Flavored with Moromi Vinegar, and Tamanaha Miso Cream Fête
◆ Chocolate Mousse with Brown Sugar Accent, Served with Fruit and Brown Sugar Tuile
◆ Dragon Fruit Sorbet
◆ Coffee or Tea
◆ Bread
Supervised by: Naohiko Kyan, Executive Chef
Naohiko Kyan was born in Yonabaru Town, Okinawa Prefecture. Upon the opening of Hotel JAL City Naha in 2006, he became the head chef of Restaurant Bon Appetit. In 2008, he was appointed Executive Chef of Hotel JAL City Naha. In 2023, he became President of the Okinawa Branch of the All Japan Federation of Chefs Association. He is currently active both in and outside Okinawa, focusing on training young chefs and advancing culinary skills. As a leading chef representing Okinawa's tourism industry, he delivers cuisine that moves guests.
Pairing Supervised by: Erika Maedomari
Born in Naha City, Erika Maedomari discovered the appeal of Okinawa through her student experiences living abroad and on the mainland, inspiring her desire to share Okinawa's culture with more people. She served as the 37th Awamori Queen from June 2023 for one year. After completing her term, she continues to promote Ryukyu awamori while connecting it with food, history, culture, and tourism both domestically and internationally. She conducts lectures on service etiquette and communication at educational institutions and companies in Okinawa, and has developed the "Okinawa Utooimuchi Certification" that integrates Okinawan history, culture, and hospitality. She is currently developing a business focused on training people who can convey heartfelt "utooimuchi" (hospitality).
Qualifications and Activities:
- 37th Awamori Queen
- Okinawa Governor-Certified Awamori Meister
- Okinawa Brewers Association-Certified Awamori Guide
- Shoku no Kaze Association-Certified Okinawa Food Ingredient Specialist
"Ryukyu French Course" Details
Period: January 15, 2026 (Thursday) onwards, year-round
※ Available Thursday–Sunday only (advance reservation required by the day before)
Hours: 6:00 PM – 10:00 PM (Last order 9:00 PM)
Location: Hotel JAL City Naha, 1F Restaurant Bon Appetit
Price: ¥7,000 (One Harmony members: ¥6,300)
Reservations and Inquiries: Restaurant Bon Appetit TEL. 098-866-2971
Official Website: https://www.naha.jalcity.co.jp/4133/
※ Details are subject to change depending on circumstances.
※ Prices shown include consumption tax and service charge.
※ Live piano performances available on Fridays and Sundays only (6:40 PM–7:00 PM / 7:40 PM–8:00 PM)
※ One Harmony is a membership program available at Okura Nikko Hotels with no enrollment or annual fees.
About Hotel JAL City Naha
Located in the center of Kokusai Street in Naha City, Hotel JAL City Naha is conveniently situated 8 minutes on foot from Miebashi Station on the Okinawa Urban Monorail "Yui Rail" and 15 minutes by car from the airport, making it ideal for both sightseeing and business. All rooms are non-smoking and equipped with USB outlets and Free Wi-Fi throughout the hotel for a comfortable stay. The premium J Premium Rooms combine functionality with relaxation, offering a spacious retreat. Restaurant Bon Appetit serves seasonal Okinawan ingredients prepared with the chef's signature touch.
Address: 1-3-70 Makishi, Naha City, Okinawa Prefecture 900-0013
TEL: 098-866-2580 (Main) / 098-866-2971 (Restaurant Direct)
FAX: 098-867-8491
Official Website: https://www.naha.jalcity.co.jp
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/jalcitynaha
