Payke Staff Pick! “Shimaya’s Brown Sugar Syrup Andagi,” a Must-Buy Okinawan Souvenir
When you’re traveling in Okinawa and can’t decide what souvenir to pick, one traditional sweet you should definitely know is sata andagi, a classic Okinawan treat.
Among the many options available, one item that caught the attention of Payke staff is Shimaya’s Brown Sugar Syrup Andagi. Made with an original brown sugar syrup and rested overnight for a moist finish, this andagi offers a simple yet unmistakably Okinawan flavor.
In this article, we’ll take a closer look at what makes Shimaya’s Brown Sugar Syrup Andagi special, along with recommended ways to enjoy it and where you can buy it.
What Is Sata Andagi? Okinawa’s Beloved Classic Sweet
Sata andagi is a traditional deep-fried pastry that has long been loved in Okinawa. Its name comes from three words: sata (sugar), anda (oil), and agi (to fry).
The cracked surface is said to bring good fortune, and it has been enjoyed not only as a household snack but also at celebrations and gatherings. While it may look a bit like a donut, the texture and flavor are completely different. The outside is lightly crisp, while the inside is dense and satisfying, with a simple, nostalgic sweetness that feels unmistakably Okinawan.
The highlight this time is Shimaya’s Brown Sugar Syrup Andagi.
Product name: Shimaya’s Brown Sugar Syrup Andagi
Contents: 3 pieces per bag
Okinawa is home to countless varieties of sata andagi, but among them, the one that caught the attention of Payke staff is Shimaya’s Brown Sugar Syrup Andagi.
The standout feature is the use of an original brown sugar syrup, with each andagi rested overnight before being finished.
The amount of syrup is carefully adjusted—too little or too much would throw off the balance—so it’s coated in just the right quantity to complement the andagi.
The syrup itself is an original blend made from Okinawan brown sugar, reflecting a strong commitment to the quality of the sugar itself.
Thanks to this extra care, the andagi delivers the rich depth and gentle sweetness of Okinawan brown sugar, along with a moist texture that stays pleasantly soft rather than dry.
Another point worth noting is that only pieces meeting specific standards for shape and size are sold as products. Because fried sweets tend to vary in appearance, Shimaya places importance not only on consistent flavor and quality, but also on maintaining a uniform, polished look.
Items that don’t meet these standards are sold separately as non-standard products, meaning only carefully selected pieces make it to store shelves. While sata andagi is a classic Okinawan souvenir, Shimaya’s version stands out as something special, with clear attention paid to craftsmanship and quality.
Enjoy It Warm or Chilled
One of the charms of Shimaya’s Brown Sugar Syrup Andagi is how versatile it is to enjoy.
At room temperature, you can appreciate the balance of richness and sweetness from the brown sugar syrup, along with the original flavor of sata andagi. Warming it slightly softens the dough and brings out a toasty aroma typical of fried sweets.
Chilling it in the refrigerator is another recommended way to enjoy it. When cold, the sweetness becomes more subdued, and the moist texture stands out even more. Being able to enjoy it in different ways depending on the season or your mood makes it an especially welcome snack while traveling.
Recommended Ways to Enjoy It: Pairing with Drinks
Another appeal of Shimaya’s Brown Sugar Syrup Andagi is how pairing it with different drinks can change the impression of its sweetness and aftertaste.
One especially recommended pairing is with milk.
The rich sweetness of the brown sugar syrup pairs beautifully with the mellow creaminess of milk, making it feel like a simple yet satisfying dessert.
If you prefer a more subtle sweetness, pairing it with tea is also a great option. Especially when chilled, enjoying the brown sugar syrup andagi with tea creates a clean aftertaste and a more refined, mellow sweetness. Choosing different drink pairings to match your mood or the occasion is part of the enjoyment.
Where Can You Buy It?
Shimaya’s Brown Sugar Syrup Andagi is sold at a limited number of locations.
■ In Okinawa:
・Nanpō Trading(南豊商事), 2nd Floor, Naha Airport Domestic Terminal
・Shimaya’s office
・Factory direct shop in Itoman City
■ Outside Okinawa:
・Available only at Washita Shops nationwide
You can check the store information here:
👉 https://catalog.washita.shop/store.html
You can also search for “Washita Shop” on Google Maps to easily find the nearest store from your current location.
Since it’s rarely available at other stores, including regular supermarkets or convenience stores, it’s best to pick one up when you come across it.
Final Thoughts: A Souvenir to Remember from Your Okinawa Trip
Gentle brown sugar sweetness, a moist texture, and the special feeling of something you can only find in a few places. Shimaya’s Brown Sugar Syrup Andagi is an easy-to-enjoy sweet that captures the essence of Okinawa. If you spot it at the airport or a Washita Shop during your trip, it’s well worth adding to your list of Okinawan souvenirs.