Introduction to Honolulu’s Barbecue Scene
Barbecue is often considered a quintessential American cuisine, but the culinary landscape of Honolulu presents a unique twist. While the island doesn’t quite meet the standards of the traditional smoky, fatty, and rich barbecue experienced on the mainland, it still offers its own distinctive flavors. This article will guide you through the best places to enjoy a taste of barbecue in Honolulu, whether you’re a fan of Hawaiian BBQ or the distinctive flavors of Korean barbecue.

Big Kahuna’s

One of the most popular spots for a barbecue-like experience in Honolulu is Big Kahuna’s, located near the Honolulu International Airport Airport Trade Center. Despite not being a traditional barbecue joint, this place offers a unique taste of Hawaiian BBQ. The Kalua pork sandwich is a standout, with flavors that are both familiar and distinct. It’s not just about the pork, though; garlic cheese balls are a perfect accompaniment to any meal here. Suggested for lunch, as it can be quite a feast.

Korean Barbecue in Honolulu

For those craving a different flavor profile, Honolulu has a range of excellent Korean barbecue restaurants. Yakiniku Don-Day is a personal favorite, where you can grill your own food at your table underneath a beautiful banyan tree. This experience is authentically Korean and thoroughly enjoyable.

Locally-Sourced BBQ Options

While traditional American barbecue isn’t easily replicable in Hawaii, the island still offers its own take on the dish. This is evident in the huli huli chicken served at Local Drive-In or Rainbow Drive-In. This chicken, seasoned with a korean BBQ sauce, can be quite an acquired taste. It’s best to try it alongside some local side dishes for a truly Hawaiian experience.

Guava Ribs from Times Supermarkets

For a unique twist on barbecue, visit Times Supermarkets, especially during their weekly Guava Ribs event. These ribs are juicy and flavorful, made even more special by the attention they get. They are often served with rice or potatoes, and a side salad comes as an added bonus. If you’re visiting Waimalu, call ahead to ensure they have them in stock.

The Best Huli Huli Chicken in Honolulu

In the heart of Haleiwa Town, look for the abundance of smoke coming from outdoor spits where the best huli huli chicken is cooked. Marinated in a secret sauce and served only on weekends, it’s a must-try for food lovers. The best time to find this treat is before reaching Liliuokalani Church, making your way from Wahiawa.

Sir Roger's Secret: Take Charge of Your BBQ

If all else fails, sweet or savory, Honolulu’s barbecue just doesn’t match up to what you might expect from a barbecue aficionado. If you’re visiting from places like Texas, St. Louis, Chicago, or other famous barbecue cities, you might find the local offerings quite underwhelming. Even so, the guava ribs from Times Supermarkets and the huli huli chicken in Haleiwa are worth a taste. However, if you're truly passionate about barbecue, you may want to consider bringing your own grill to enjoy your own backyard BBQ experience in the beautiful Hawaiian weather.

In conclusion, while Honolulu offers its own unique flavors and barbecue experience, there's still a long way to go to reach the level of traditional barbecue you might expect from the mainland. However, visiting Honolulu isn't just about food; it's about soaking in the local culture and finding the perfect spot to enjoy a meal.