Yaeyama soba is the local version of Okinawan noodle soup — round wheat noodles (not buckwheat, despite the name) in a clear pork and bonito broth, topped with slow-braised pork belly, a slice of fishcake, and green onion. It's simpler and lighter than ramen, deeply savoury, and costs around 700–900 yen for a full bowl. Almost every town on the island has a soba shop, and quality is consistently high.
Mintama (ミンタマ), on the main street in Ishigaki town, is a local favourite with long queues at lunch. Hungry times Soba-ya near the port is another reliable option. Both open at breakfast time — Yaeyama soba is eaten at any hour, including first thing in the morning.