• Banner 1
  • Banner 2
  • Banner 3

Welcome to Barbecue Kai

At Barbecue Kai, our culinary journey is rooted in the vibrant flavors of Hawaiian barbecue culture. Located in the heart of Waianae, we pride ourselves on offering hearty plates that showcase local favorites, including our renowned loco moco and unbeatable fried rice. With an inviting, casual atmosphere and outdoor seating, we create a perfect space for families and groups to enjoy delicious meals. Customers rave about our generous portions and friendly service, making every visit a delightful experience. Whether you're stopping by for a quick takeout or a cozy family dinner, Barbecue Kai promises memorable flavors that will keep you coming back for more.

Barbecue Kai: Reviews & Ratings

Kyle M.
Kyle M.

Every time we've been here we have loved the food! It is cash only, but the service is always great! Only a few benches to eat on, but Pokai Bay is just a minute away and a beautiful place as well! Best loco moco on island that I've found!

Roongtawan W.
Roongtawan W.

The BEST fried rice! Can't beat the price if you are feeding more than 2 get the small catering pan of fried rice will feed you and then some, for under $40!!

Melissa M.
Melissa M.

Cash only. Food is always good and their prices are reasonable! In my opinion.... Best hamburger steak on the island!

Jeff N.
Jeff N.

Being our last night on Oahu, having stayed a week at the Hawaiian Princess, we decided to get a local style combo plate. Barbecue Kai did not disappoint. We ordered the mix combo plate with a serving of chicken katsu a la cart. HUGE servings! Extremely delicious, friendly service. The Chicken Katsu was the best I have ever had and I have been munching on Katsu since 1994! I would say the only thing I would recommend improving is their macaroni salad was a bit overcooked. Other than that it was one of the best combo lunch plates I have ever had. Seriously. I am so full right now I can hardly write this review. Mahalo Barbecue Kai!

Kristin S.
Kristin S.

More 3.5 stars in my book but we haven't been here long enough to try other locations so it will get the 4 stars for now. The bill for our family of 7 and 8 plates was $94 and change. The rice portions are plentiful for all the plates. My family isn't a Mac salad fan so we substituted for an extra scoop of rice for the meals. The spare ribs were tender, slightly chewy but pretty good. The show stoppers were the Katsu curry and the black bean chicken. Flavors were delicious. I'll definitely order them both again. The noodles are a never again order item. They tasted burned and there was no flavor. My mother in law had the shrimp plate and she said it was delicious. The combo of the spare ribs and chicken were good. The chicken is not fatty, chicken thighs are not usually my fav but they do a. Good job with them here. We also ordered the Loco Moco small plate and it was pretty good but not the best I've had on the island. The service was nothing to right home about but they are pretty quick. I did try to call to order ahead and no one answered. There are a few outdoor tables but there is not inside seating or restrooms.

Mireille M.
Mireille M.

The loco moco was good and plentiful as well as the Bbq chicken. I forgot to take a picture of it. The mochiko was not so good, it was like bits and pieces like tiny pieces.

Jon L.
Jon L.

On a recent trip to hawaii...had an airbnb away from waikiki....close to the beach and less people. On my way to the beach, stumbled upon this local joint. Hawaii bbq and it finest. Huge portions and tasty dishes. All local. Talked to a few locals and they sing praises for this place. The locomo is apparently homemade. Wish i knew before i ordered. Anyhow, had the BBQ chicken large size - ( came with 3 huge pieces) and the Hawaiian ribs of course. Came with scoops of rice and macaroni...authentic hawaiian. Lol. 1 meal can feed 2...if you went with the small Order, you get 1 big piece Of chicken instead of 3. Lol. I like how the meat is not drenched in sauce Or teriyaki syrup. Its marinaded just right and grilled to perfection. So filling and delicious. Will be back for sure when in Hawaii. Service was quick and easy and with a smile. Fyi..,take out option only! :) Cheers! Happy eating!

Tawny V.
Tawny V.

This a late post, but I had to share some of my fav spots on the Island. Its been a min since I've been back visiting the west sai. Barbecue Kai was always our go to for good food at an affordable price. Breakfast plate back in the days were like $5 eggs, rice and portugese sausage, cant beat that?! This time around ordered, BBQ mix plate that came with BBQ chicken, teriyaki, Bbq short ribs, rice and mac salad $15, mochiko chicken, rice and mac salad $11. The service was fast and friendly! As for the the ambiance, its outdoor seating with a window were you order food. Outdoor seating, dog friendly

Location

  • Barbecue Kai
    85-973 Farrington Hwy Waianae, HI 96792 Hotline: (808) 696-7122

Welcome to the Flavors of Barbecue Kai, a hidden gem nestled along the picturesque coast of Waianae, Hawaii. Known for its mouthwatering barbecue offerings, Barbecue Kai promises not just great flavors, but a delightful experience that embraces the essence of local Hawaiian cuisine. Located at 85-973 Farrington Hwy, this establishment is ideal for casual dining and is suitable for families, making it a perfect stop for lunch or dinner.

  • Takeout & Reservations: Whether you're looking to enjoy an outdoor meal or grab some delicious grub to-go, Barbecue Kai has you covered.
  • Vegetarian Options: With numerous vegetarian offerings, the restaurant caters to all dietary preferences.
  • A Variety of Payment Options: From Android Pay to Apple Pay, paying for your meal is as easy as it gets.
  • Cater Your Next Event: Consider them for your next gathering—Barbecue Kai provides catering services designed to impress.
  • Outdoor Seating: Enjoy your meal al fresco amidst Hawaii’s beautiful landscape—dogs are welcome too!
  • Kid-Friendly Environment: A casual setting with noise levels just right, making it perfect for families.

According to customer feedback, Barbecue Kai excels in serving hearty, generous portions. One enthusiastic patron, Kyle M., raves about the island’s best loco moco, while Jeff N. praises the chicken katsu as the best he has ever tasted. The mix combo plates are particularly noteworthy, offering an impressive variety of flavors that leave patrons wanting more.

For those on a budget, the fried rice is a customer favorite. Roongtawan W. highlights how the small catering pan can comfortably feed a group for under $40, showcasing both value and quality. Another highlight on the menu includes the hamburger steak, which Melissa M. claims is top-notch. The restaurant's offerings extend beyond classic barbecue, featuring dishes that cater to all palates—including spare ribs and delicious savory curry options.

Each dish is prepared with an inviting warmth that exemplifies the spirit of Aloha. However, some customers have noted areas for improvement, such as the macaroni salad, which could use a touch of finesse. Still, the joyful spirit and friendly service keep bringing diners back.

In conclusion, Barbecue Kai is a must-visit for anyone in the area looking to enjoy authentic Hawaiian barbecue in a welcoming environment. With its ample portions, reasonable pricing, and a menu that celebrates local flavors, you’ll definitely leave satisfied. Whether you dine in or take out, be prepared for a culinary experience that delights the taste buds and warms the heart. Mahalo!