Part of any memorable trip to Okinawa is the authentic Japanese food enjoyed while visiting, often at a hotel or resort. Restaurant Panari is a brand new buffet style eatery in northern Okinawa just east of the intersections of Route 329, Route 36 and the Okinawa Expressway Okinawa Kita Exit (Exit 5). Its lineup of entrees reminds me of the spreads I have seen at much pricier buffets at the resorts along Okinawa's northern coastline.
Panari was initially only open for lunch as management focused on refining its dining experience and the foods offered before extending hours for evening meals; it is now open for evening meals as well. Panari offers mostly traditional Japanese cuisine prepared fresh in small batches to ensure quality and freshness in its tasteful dishes. The restaurant on the outside seems to be converted from a prefabricated industrial building. The inside of Panari is beautifully furnished, decorated and accented with a distinct Japanese contemporary feel that is very inviting and reassuring to its guests.
I visited with my family and another family from our church on a Sunday afternoon within a week of its grand opening. There were about 30 dishes offered that day, including roast beef, Okinawa soba, chicken karaage, nakami soup, curry rice, mozuku, and shiromi zakana (fish) as well as pizza, fried potatoes and fried rice. Teas, coffee, juices, milk and water are included with the buffet. The salad bar and dessert bar are also included. Beer is available for a separate additional charge. Restaurant Panari is open daily 11:30 ~ 16:00 for lunch and for dinner 17:30 ~ 24:00 on weekdays and 17:30 ~ 01:00 on weekends. Admission for adults and teens is 1,100 yen each and 700 yen for children. There is an ample sized parking lot in front of the restaurant.
