Discovering Awamori: The Spirit of Okinawa at Izakaya Juraku

At Izakaya Juraku, we showcase a diverse selection of Japanese spirits, and awamori is one of the most distinctive. This centuries-old Okinawan distilled spirit holds real cultural importance and offers a flavor profile unlike any other.

What Is Awamori?

Awamori is Okinawa's traditional distilled liquor, crafted from Thai long-grain rice and fermented with black koji mold. Unlike shochu, which can go through multiple distillations, awamori is distilled just once, which helps preserve its aromatic qualities. Aged versions, called kusu, develop increasingly refined characteristics over time.

Our Selections

We pour Zuisen varieties (Hakuryu, Hiryu, and Kouryu expressions), Kumejima's Kumesen from a remote island, Chuko Ryukyu Awamori, Seifuku Vintage Awamori, and Seifuku Coffee Liqueur, a modern variation blending awamori with roasted coffee.

How to Drink It

Awamori can be enjoyed neat, on the rocks, as mizuwari (with water), oyuwari (with warm water), or in cocktails.

Come try it at Izakaya Juraku, 121 Ludlow St, New York, NY 10002.