I never know what to expect when visiting Sideways, a sports and music bar on Chuo Park Avenue - also known as BC Street - in Okinawa City's Koza business district. There was the time I was captivated by the "Over the Top" style arm wrestling tournament (note: instruct your date not to openly encourage you in public to join into said arm wrestling tournament). Several times there have been live musical acts ranging from blues to rock to pop and traditional Okinawa acts. Then there is the daily lunch special that includes beef, chicken or fish with rice, salad, vegetables and a drink for 780 yen. All you can drink Budweiser in Japan for 1,000 yen? Yes, I put on the paper bracelet for that once.
My visits to Sideways have always been a good time; with my wife by my side, entertainment provided, and friendly staff attending to us the restaurant is a stress-relieving environment. We are on a first-name basis with the manager, have met the owner several times – even joined with him at another nearby live music house once to enjoy hard rock together- and have spoken at length with the chef on several occasions.
Sideways participates in the Koza Live House Circuit which is a program in Okinawa City to advise the public on where to find live music on any day of the month in and around the Route 23 and BC Street areas. Sideways is located on the left at the intersection of the first side street once entering BC Street from Route 330 (BC Street is a one-way street) and is open from 11:00–24:00 daily.
Call Sideways to check on upcoming musical acts or food specials at 098-929-1234.
