Smile Cafe
If you possess even a vague interest in surfing or you'd simply like to meet the most cheerful barman on Ishigaki island then you should really take time to visit 'Smile Cafe', a cosy bar which is located on the outskirts of Misakichou's entertainment district.
The bar is owned by Emiko and Ken, a couple who made the move to the Ishigaki from mainland Japan, with Ishigaki's relatively unknown surf scene being particularly attractive to Ken.
Ken and a couple of regulars at one of Ishigaki's friendliest bars.
Surf Knowledge
If you're into surfing and you're after some local insight into the best spots on the island (which incidentally are found at Maezato in the summer months and Uganzaki in the winter months) then this is clearly the bar for you. The bar's surf influence isn't exactly subtle; surfboards are suspended from the ceiling and the surf videos playing on the television compliment the bar's atmosphere. If this isn't enough to persuade you that this bar is owned by a surfer then step into the bathroom, which is collaged wall-to-wall with hundreds of surf photos.
You won't hear much English at this bar but Ken's incredibly welcoming personality transcends all language barriers. Chances are that you'll also bump into Manabu, a very nice character who seems to spend as much time at the bar than he does in his own apartment.
Drinks
In terms of alcoholic drinks there are no big surprises with awamori, draught orion beer and a wide range of cocktails being on offer.
If you're looking for a soft drink then you might want to try one of Smile's delicious smoothies which are made from local fruits including mangos, pineapples, passion fruit and lychees.
Food
Food is served right up until the early hours of the morning. Smile offers a range of pasta dishes such as carbonara along with 4 varieties of thick-based pizza. Naturally a range of Japanese dishes are also on offer along with light snacks.
Opening Hours
Smile bar is open as late as any other bar on the island with the majority of its customers typically arriving after midnight. It opens at around 8.00pm and closes its doors at around 5.00-6.00am.
Location
Smile cafe is located on the north west outskirts of the Misakichou distict. If walking through the town center along the main road from the direction of the ferry terminal take the first left after Misakichou's main street. Continue to the bottom of the road and turn right at the T junction and then take the first road on your left. Smile bar is found at the bottom of this road, not far from Shinei park.
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