You’ll Be Feeling All The Island Vibes At Big Kahuna Hawaiian BBQ, A Hawaiian Barbecue Spot In Kentucky
In terms of barbecue, the Bluegrass State is best-known for its Southern spin on this American classic. But there’s a new barbecue spot in Kentucky that’s unlike any other in the state, and it’s a welcome addition to the Bluegrass BBQ scene. Big Kahuna Hawaiian BBQ is a Hawaiian barbecue spot that’s making big waves (see what we did there?) in the Bluegrass, and we guarantee you’ll be feeling all the island vibes when you visit this delightful new spot in Lexington, Kentucky.
Big Kahuna Hawaiian BBQ opened in Lexington, Kentucky, in 2021, bringing a big dose of the aloha spirit to the Bluegrass.
Just like any regional barbecue, what makes Hawaiian barbecue so unique is its sauce. Hawaiian barbecue is a bit sweeter than your standard Southern BBQ sauces, with Asian notes and a kick of heat. And this sweet-and-spicy sauce is slathered on everything at Big Kahuna!
The eponymous Big Kahuna Burger is a must try: a half pound of beef, charred pineapple, Swiss cheese, and bacon, all on a toasted bun topped with their signature Hawaiian BBQ sauce. Are you drooling yet?
For more of a classic barbecue experience, the Kalua Pork Sandwich is your best bet. Featuring slow-roasted pork, barbecue sauce, and slaw, this is the most wonderfully unique BBQ sandwich you'll have in Kentucky!
Of course, this being a Bluegrass BBQ spot, you know there's going to be chicken. And this Hawaiian spin on a Southern staple is out-of-this-world good!
I write like it's my job - because it is! I have a Master's in English and love words: crossword puzzles, Scrabble games, Wordle, and, of course, good, old-fashioned books.
I'm a writer and editor at OnlyInYourState, and a contributing writer at Cincinnati Magazine. I love the Great Outdoors and am endlessly awestruck by this beautiful country of ours. Coffee keeps me going, yoga keeps me sane, my kids keep me grounded, and my writing keeps me inspired.
