When I step into the elegant Seven × Seven Hotel in Ishigaki’s Maezato area, just a few minutes from the city and a short stroll from Maezato Beach, I don’t expect to find a place like Batida. From the moment I walk along the path framed by lush tropical plants, I feel as though I’ve entered a new version of Ishigaki — one with a refined, urban-island energy.
Inside, the atmosphere surprises me: a calm blend of modern design and island warmth. Batida is an expression of a new Ishigaki island cuisine — refined yet rooted in its surroundings.
The Philosophy — Local Ingredients & Island Vision
The friendly staff welcome us with a cool refreshment. Sitting in one of the comfortable chairs with the French chef, I understand that Batida’s philosophy rests on the idea that food should reflect the island itself. Every ingredient tells a story: the morning’s catch, herbs from small farms, vegetables grown in Ishigaki’s rich red soil.
Born in Brittany, France, the chef began his career as a butcher before finding his path in Japanese kitchens. His move to Ishigaki island was a personal one — a wish to give his children the same freedom he once knew in the countryside: climbing trees and living close to nature.
When he begins working at Batida, he quickly realizes that he must start from scratch — learning what the island truly has to offer. Visiting farmers and fishermen, he built the relationships that now form the foundation of his kitchen.
Drawing inspiration from his French roots while embracing Latin, Italian, and island influences, he creates a cuisine that feels both global and local.
He cooks with quiet confidence — no frills, no decoration for show, only what adds meaning and flavor. The result is elegant, refined yet relaxed and colorful with a connection to Ishigaki itself.
Signature Dishes & Drink Pairings
Batida’s signature guacamole prepared tableside — fresh, vibrant, and mixed with their original herb blend.
I enjoy looking at the preparation of one of Batida’s signature dishes right in front of me at the table — fresh guacamole with handmade tortilla chips baked in the pizza oven. The aroma of herbs and lime fills the air.
I take a bite and taste the creamy avocado with the crisp tortilla chips. It blends perfectly with Batida’s special herb mix and a topping of sheep cheese, creating something both comforting and surprisingly refined. A perfect dish to share — best enjoyed from the comfort of the soft chairs, with a glass of the signature drink in hand. Their recommended refreshing Batida Shikuwasa (Shekwasha) sour is their first collaboration with local Seifuku Awamori Distillery.
Batida’s boutique shop with unique island gifts, artisanal foods and their curated selection of signature drinks behind a beautiful glass display.
The chef changes the menu three times a year, following the rhythm and colour of the subtle changing Yaeyama seasons.
After we finish the delicious guacamole we taste handmade tacos crafted from a carefully selected blend of locally sourced corn flour, shaped and baked with care. Each one carries a unique topping — from tender local chicken to rich Shinzato beef — a celebration of the island’s finest ingredients.
Bar Red
Bar Red’s underground atmosphere — rich red tones, refined lighting, and over 100 varieties of gin.
After our flavorful encounter, we take the elevator from Batida, down to Bar Red, and instantly it feels like entering another world — an underground experience.
Dark, red, and refined, this bar could easily belong in a Tokyo skyscraper, yet here it hides beneath Ishigaki’s tropical night.
Over 100 kinds of gin line the shelves, focusing on Japanese gins. The menu includes sake, champagne, and creative cocktails with names like Yoko Gushiken, Sen Rikyū, 18th Street Gang, UMAMI, and Spicy Chili Mule.
The bar food is just as imaginative — from blinis & caviar and artisan chocolate to truffle popcorn and Batida nachos. The style seems luxurious with a comforting twist.
Guests can play billiards or enjoy private karaoke rooms, making it a stylish space for long island nights.
Final Thought
The refined interior of Batida — warm textures and modern island design.
We truly enjoyed our afternoon at Batida — the professional hospitality of the friendly staff, the relaxed tropical atmosphere, and the view over the shimmering island pool created a perfect setting. Each dish at Batida carries its own creative, surprising flavor. Batida is without a doubt a unique and refreshing addition to Ishigaki’s local restaurant and bar scene, blending island charm with cosmopolitan sophistication.
Batida and Bar Red together redefine what island luxury can mean — where local connections, refined flavours, and creative design meet.
We look definitely forward to visit restaurant Batida & Bar Red again!
Q&A — Plan Your Visit
Q: Is Batida child-friendly?
A: Yes, children are very welcome at Batida. The restaurant atmosphere is elegant yet relaxed, and families often enjoy early dinner times.
Bar Red, however, is for adults only (20 years and older), in accordance with Japanese alcohol regulations.
Q: Is there a dress code?
A: Smart-casual or “island chic” fits the ambiance perfectly — linen shirts, resort dresses, and relaxed elegance are ideal.
Q: Are local residents welcome, or is it only for hotel guests?
A: Local residents are warmly welcome. While many guests come from the hotel, Batida and Bar Red both open their doors to everyone — residents, island visitors, and travellers alike.
Q: Are there vegetarian or vegan options available?
A: Yes. With every changing menu, Batida offers a selection of vegetarian dishes.
Q: Is smoking allowed at Batida or Bar Red?
A: Smoking is not allowed inside the restaurant. There are designated smoking areas.
The wood-fired pizza oven inside Batida on Ishigaki Island, used to craft handmade pizzas with local ingredients.
The refined boutique inside Batida — offering a curated selection of unique island gifts, artisanal drinks, and gourmet products.
Bar Red at 7×7 Hotel, a stylish underground-inspired bar on Ishigaki Island featuring 100+ gins, cocktails, billiards, and karaoke.
If you’d like to follow the island’s spirit a little further, step with us into a special local awamori distillery, where Ishigaki’s heart is distilled into every drop.
👉 Continue to the awamori story.