Hawaii BBQ Restaurant

4549 University Way NE, Seattle - 98105
160 reviews
Barbecue Barbeque Hawaiian
(206) 522-7740

I've been coming here a few times every school year, it's the perfect spot for food on a budget especially as a college student. I somewhat understand the ratings, but also don't. You have to understand that this restaurant is focused on serving a specific audience, college students. It's by no means the healthiest choice but it's filling, cheap for the quantity, and tasty. The target audience of college students is reinforced when you see the menu has plates for various Greek life.The owner is a kind man who likes to make conversation. He has good intentions and is often jolly, I've always had a good encounter with him but I see a few reviews mentioning service being poor. Not sure how common this is, but I've never experienced it personally in four years.The fried rice is more like rice lightly tossed in soy sauce with vegetables added. It's not like fried rice you expect, so if you know that when ordering, you won't be disappointed. It's a supplement to the meat that's comparable to basic white rice. Fried egg on top for the combo plates is a nice addition.I will suggest opting for a Hawaiian plate when something catches your eye as the macaroni salad here is yummy from what I recall. They also sell their macaroni salad in small or large sizes as a side, so maybe go crazy? (hint).I always opt for the chicken options though, so maybe that helps my judgment. They have fair chicken teriyaki, tasty chicken katsu, and solid crunchy chicken. I don't like the chicken teriyaki as much as other places, but it's an option for when I want to be "healthier."Chicken Teriyaki - larger pieces that aren't cut up like your usual strips of chicken teriyaki. Not as saucy either and not grilled to have the usual char marks. My least favorite chicken option when here, but it's healthier to balance out whatever else I might order.Chicken Katsu - your standard katsu, breaded nicely and tasty. No big comments here. My personal favorite.Crunchy Chicken - interesting is how I'd describe this as you don't find this type of crunch often. It's like popcorn chicken with super light, thin, and crunchier breading. I don't think you get as much chicken here though as there are bits of the breading missing meat, but the crunch is definitely welcome. I like this variety in smaller quantities.

I was sent here by my Bro n law since I was here for training in Everett and I had to venture out here to see if this owner is still doing it. Very friendly and he reminds me of being back home in Hawaii taking story with one of the uncles. Delicious food and huge portions. I see his formula...cheap eats for broke college kids wanting something to fill their bellies. I'm sure he has fed thousands of college students since he'd been doing it for 30+years. Mahalo's for the love, see you next time I come back to Seattle! ...Aloha.

I went to get food here tonight (January 29th). The food was good. Not great. There was only one person working. I feel bad for him having to cook, take orders, and everything else. He's obviously a hard worker. I recommend giving it a try sometime!

Huge portions at an affordable price. The owner is very friendly and always makes jokes. Definitely recommend. The inside is quite outdated but it’s part of the fun.

I came here with friends for dinner. While we were here, a man came in while loudly and rhythmically banging on a bottle with scissors. He approached the front desk and loudly asked "Is there food for Fappy Wang? Is Fappy Wang eating tonight?". He left the establishment as he entered it: loud and proud.Overall 10/10 experience. Food was decent, entertainment was spectacular.

My favorite spot for Hawaiian food in Seattle. The food is made fresh and the owner is very kind and funny. The inside is definitely dated but it's a fun experience to dine-in. Try the katsu and loco moco!

Hole in wall. Rice was over cooked and prices were a bit high, but the food was tasty.

An interesting spot. They have very generous portion sizes and pretty quick service. The inside decor is a little dismal, but hey, you're there to pick up food and have a good meal.

I wish I could give 0 stars! Worst food I have ever tasted in my entire life! The rice was cold, felt like they just put it on the plate from the refrigerator.Chicken was dry. Never going back there.

This place is permanently closed. My husband found it online, called to place an order, and he got a voice-mail stating they would be closed for a few days in December for family Christmas vacation to Hawaii. We thought that was odd, but drove there anyway because we have never had Hawaiian dishes and the menu and prices looked great! Around 7:45pm we got to University Way and there was no parking (as usual) so we parked on a side street and walked to where Google marked the location. We ended up passing it so we tried again by the building number and we found it locked up with plants overgrowing broken windows and the posted hours on the door said they were open until 11pm! I think it's safe to say they are long gone.