The Hole In The Wall Restaurant In Hawaii That Serves Some Of The Best BBQ You’ve Ever Tried

Barbecue isn’t merely smoked meat topped with a tangy sauce – at least not here in Hawaii. You see, it also includes grilled meats, and reflects our islands’ diverse landscapes, with Japanese, Korean, local, and traditional American influences. While you’ll find countless delicious barbecue joints across the Hawaiian Islands, there is one hole in the wall eatery that features classic barbecue as well as dishes with island influences.

Welcome to Uncle Bobo’s, where mouthwatering barbecue is served with a view on the windward coast of Oahu. Tucked between the Kaaawa Post Office and a 7-11 store, Uncle Bobo’s is the definition of a hole-in-the-wall, but just as you shouldn’t judge a book by its cover, you shouldn’t judge this restaurant based on its appearance.

You’re probably thinking to yourself, "So, what makes this spot so special?" Not only is their tangy barbecue sauce homemade but dry-rubbed meat is smoked for hours over a combination of hickory and tropical woods. Talk about quality!

You can’t go wrong with an order of beef brisket or pulled pork shoulder served on a platter with seasoned rice and sides or piled onto a homemade roll packed with onions and garlic.

What’s classic barbecue without scrumptious sides? Opt for classics like coleslaw, local fresh corn, and ranch-style beans or opt for something uniquely Hawaiian, like seasons rice or pineapple.

While their classic barbecue dishes are delicious, they also offer some mouthwatering Asian and Pacific-inspired foods, including Thai beef and chicken stir-fry with peanut sauce and a teriyaki tri-tip bowl.

If you’re not the biggest fan of BBQ, never fear. This cozy counter-serve eatery offers more than just epic barbecue with housemade sauce: you'll also find burgers, hot dogs, fish tacos, plate lunches, and salads on the menu.

Of course, you’ll want something to wash all that incredible barbecue down, and luckily, at Uncle Bobo’s, you have a variety of options. From smoothies and bubbly housemade sodas to handcrafted coffee drinks, there’s something for everyone here.

Don’t forget to save room for dessert. Shave ice, iced coffee floats, and a variety of specials (including malasadas) are on the menu here.

Though the cheery yellow dining room at this counter-serve joint is small, you will find seating out front as well oceanfront picnic tables across the street at Swanzy Beach Park.

Uncle Bobo’s Smoked BBQ is easily one of the island’s best food secrets, and we personally can’t get enough.

Uncle Bobo's Smoked BBQ is located at 51-480 Kamehameha Hwy., Kaaawa, HI 96730, and is open Wednesday through Sunday from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. They are closed Monday and Tuesday. For more information, follow them on Facebook.

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