Retro Okinawa

Do you like to take chances? We like to take chances.

In fact, a few weeks ago we took a chance wandering into Porky's Live Bar in Okinawa. I'm so glad we did because we stumbled into a very fun retro scene.

Would you believe on this tiny Japanese island way out in the Pacific there's a place where American 50s culture is thriving? At Porky's, Elvis is still King, servers are straight out of Greased Lightning, and Oldies draw in the crowds.

You know the famous song Greased Lightning? As children, my sister and I loved to sing the lyrics without really understanding the lyrics. You catch my drift, right? We just thought that it was funny meaningless adult language. These days, I'm a little bit shocked by the innuendo...

I wonder if the servers at Porky's understand their work attire. The mechanics uniform curiously has red patches on the each arm that read "F-k you. " (except the actual word, not censored like I've written it here).

Hmm, I think there must be a language gap somewhere as saying "F-k you" to your patrons is not exactly a friendly business tactic encouraging repeat customers...

The best part about our night at Porky's is the Oldies band that entertains the audience. They sing all the classic songs from the 50s and 60s, in charming Japanese accents. The hit of the night was Blue Suede Shoes.

This place made us happy...

Due to popular demand from fellow Okis, here are driving directions:

Take a left turn out Sgt Major gate on Camp Foster (where Westpac is) and keep going downhill. Turn left at the 329 intersection and go straight. You’ll pass Living Design Square on your right as well as Comprehensive Park. You’ll come to a big intersection with McDonalds on the right side and Hotto Motto on the left. Turn right at that intersection and go straight to the end of the street. You’ll pass the Toys R us shopping center and an organic market on the right. At the end, turn left. You’ll see a Family Mart on the corner. Porky’s is in a building near the Family Mart. There is limited parking in front of the bar.

Have you ever discovered a retro 50s venue in another country?