BBQ in Waikiki: Where to Find the Best Local Flavors

Aloha and E Komo Mai to the Hawaiian Islands.

Located halfway between the mainland United States and Asia, Hawaii has a rich history, intertwining different languages, cultures, and cuisines.

There’s plenty to see and do in the islands, but you’d better bring your appetite!

Today, we’re talking about Hawaiian BBQ!

Hawaiian BBQ doesn’t have one set recipe; instead, it encompasses a range of grilled proteins with tantalizing sauces boasting local, Asian-inspired, and tropical flavor profiles.

It’s often served as a plate lunch , which means two scoops of rice and one scoop of mac salad.

But nowadays, you’ll find healthy renditions, vegan versions, gluten-free bowls, and juicy sandwiches.

From pineapple glazed to guava smoked and Kal Bi to Teriyaki Beef, try them all to find your favorite.

In this First Cabin Hawaii post, we share where to chow down on the best Hawaiian BBQ in Waikiki.

Hawaiian BBQ: A Flavor You Don’t Want to Miss in Waikiki

Hit the beach, surf some waves, walk the strip, and then fill up on Hawaiian-style BBQ.

There are plenty of places with BBQ-style plates featured on their menus!

However, these handpicked spots are tried and tested, serving up Hawaiian BBQ in the center of Waikiki.

L&L Hawaiian Barbeque

2233 Kalākaua Ave Suite B3

Hours: 9 am – 9:15 pm

This super casual eatery boasts cheap eats with Hawaiian comfort food on the menu.

Hawaiian Barbeque is the name of the game, and there are plenty of tasty options, including the Grilled boneless Barbecue Chicken, BBQ Beef Bowl, BBQ Cheeseburger, or BBQ Mix plate.

If you love it, you’re in luck, because there are various locations throughout the islands!

Me’s BBQ

2427 Kuhio Avenue

Hours: 9 am – 9 pm

Local-style plate lunch meets Korean flavors at this little hole-in-the-wall.

Since 1992, this family-owned and operated joint has been known for its tasty Korean food.

The Hawaiian BBQ options to choose from are the Kal Bi, Bar-B-Q Beef, or Bar-B-Q Chicken served with two scoops of rice and four sides!

One of each, please!

Chee Hoo BBQ

2330 Kalākaua Ave # 156

Hours: 11 am – 9 pm

Bite into the flavors of Hawaiian BBQ in the center of all the action.

The menu features house-smoked Baby Back Ribs, Beef Brisket, Kalbi Short Ribs, Spicy Sausage, and Chicken Wings.

There’s also Garlic Shrimp on the menu, and the tasty sides include Mac & Cheese-Hoo, Cole Slaw, Baked Beans, and more.

Come hungry!

Sam’s Kitchen

2425 Kūhiō Ave

Hours: 5 pm – 11 pm

Find this delicious and healthy food in two locations in Waikiki.

Start with a pupu (appetizer) and then select a sauce and sides to accompany the 8 oz. N.Y. top sirloin steak.

The sauces are made from scratch and include the Original Garlic Sauce, Pineapple Teriyaki, Spicy Garlic, and more.

There’s also fresh-caught fish, crispy tofu, chicken, and shrimp on the menu.

Surf-and-turf?!

Diamond Head Market & Grill

Address: 3158 Monsarrat Avenue

Lunch & Dinner Hours: 11 am – 7:30 pm

This casual eatery is a bakery, a convenience store, and a grill all under one roof.

Located two blocks from Kapi’olani Park and the Waikiki Shell, it’s a short jaunt from Waikiki’s main strip.

If you’re on the hunt for local-style Hawaiian BBQ plate lunches, go for the Char Siu Pork, Kalbi Beef Rib Plate, or the Teriyaki Chicken.

Order it to go and enjoy in the park or on the beach.

Make sure to save room for the scrumptious baked goodies for dessert.

The blueberry scones are the real deal.

Top Hawaiian BBQ Spots on Kapahulu Avenue You Need to Try

Kapahulu Avenue connects Waikiki Beach to town and Waialae Avenue. Kapahulu is easily walkable, a swift drive, or a nice bike ride.

The street is dotted with shops and restaurants along the way.

Here’s where you can find some tasty Hawaiian BBQ on Kapahulu.

Rainbow Drive-In

Address: 3308 Kanaina Avenue

Hours: 7 am – 9 pm

This is a go-to spot in Waikiki for tourists and locals alike.

The portion sizes are serious, so consider walking back to Kalakaua Avenue or sleeping off the food coma on the beach!

The menu has tons of cheap eats, but if you’re on the hunt for Hawaiian-style BBQ, opt for the BBQ Beef or the BBQ Pork.

You can enjoy it as a sandwich or a plate lunch!

Side Street Inn

614 Kapahulu Ave #100

Hours: Monday to Friday 4 pm – 9 pm, Saturday & Sunday 11 am – 9 pm

This popular local eatery boasts a large menu including Island-style Appetizers and much, much more.

From the grill, there’s a tasty selection including Liliko’i BBQ Baby Back Ribs, Hawaiian-Style Pulehu Short Ribs, Teriyaki Beef, and Pupu Style Sizzling Rib Eye Steak.

Bring your appetite because the portions are big.

Zippy’s

601 Kapahulu Ave

Hours: 6 am – 10 pm

This casual Hawaiian chain is a must-try when in the islands, especially if you’re looking for a laid-back eatery with local flavors.

It’s hefty on the portions and light on the wallet. The menu is extensive, reflecting the melting pot that is Hawaii.

When you’re on the hunt for the flavors of Hawaiian BBQ, go for the Teriyaki Chicken, Garlic Miso Chicken Plate, Teri Beef Plate, or send it with the Local Favorites Platter.

Guava Smoked

567 Kapahulu Ave

Hours: 11 am – 8 pm

The specialty here is local-style smoked meats and fish.

This family-owned eatery strictly uses the invasive strawberry guava wood, also known as wai’awi, in the smoking process.

The menu boasts plate lunches, bowls, burgers, sandwiches, and pupu platters.

The smoked delicacies include duck, Kalbi, Butterfish Collars, Chicken, Pork, and more.

End your meal with a tasty guava bar.

Yolo!

Try Hawaiian BBQ while on O’ahu

We hope your mouths are watering and that you arrive in the islands ready to eat!

Balance sunshine and surf with plate lunch and locally brewed beers, all without leaving Waikiki Beach.

As always, we’re here at First Cabin Hawaii to help you with any of your O’ahu questions!

We hope to see you over a plate of tasty Hawaiian BBQ!