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Best Hawaiian BBQ: Authentic Hawaiian Plate Lunches in San Jose

Best Hawaiian BBQ in San Jose serves authentic Hawaiian plate lunches with generous portions and island-inspired flavors. Known for fresh, well-seasoned meats like teriyaki chicken and spicy chicken platters, it stands out among mainland Hawaiian BBQ spots. The menu offers classics such as katsu curry, lau lau, and seafood plates, paired traditionally with rice and macaroni salad. Customers praise the fresh ingredients, quick service, and friendly staff, making it a great choice for a satisfying, quick meal without compromising quality. While prices are slightly higher, the abundant portions and taste remain excellent, delivering a genuine Hawaiian BBQ experience.

Best Hawaiian BBQ at a glance

  • Address 2638 Union Ave, San Jose, CA 95124, United States
  • Phone +1 408-628-4338
  • Restaurant type Barbecue restaurant .
  • Popular for Lunch , Dinner , Solo dining .

Photos & Gallery

Best Hawaiian BBQ: Reviews & Ratings

Andrew Shen
4

Kinda hole in the wall vibes but a little nicer than that. The portions are large, the katsu curry was good but maybe a bit light on the flavor of the curry. Chicken was crispy and seasoned well. Good food for the price and if you're short on time.

Alex
5

Finally a great spot for Hawaiian plate lunch! I’ve been to all the others and find that this one is the most authentic style. Got the mixed plate and meat was fresh, hot, and tasty. Excellent large portion. Will be back to try the lau lau and others.

TT EL TT
4

Pleasantly surprised by the quality and quantity of the food. Great value for what I would say are above average portions. The Spicy Chicken platter was spicy, delicious and enough to feed 2. Comes with two scoops of rice and a scoop of macaroni salad which was very tasty. Friendly gents manning the counter and kitchen. Service seemed quick - I went across the street and picked up a handful of items at Lunardis and my food was ready within 5 minutes of my return. This was my first trip here and I'll be back to try other items on the menu.

Christopher Keys
5

This is a Fantastic Hawaiian BBQ. One of the best we have eaten at on the Mainland. Every entree is delicious, well seasoned and reminds us of the islands ! Beth had the seafood plate with beef; I had the teriyaki chicken plate !

Dan Kim
5

One of many Hawaiian BBQ spots I've been tok and it is really solid. Nothing was bad and pretty much everything was a bit above average compared to other similar spots. Spam musubi was a little salty however. Pricing is a tad higher then other Hawaiian BBQ spots though.

David Noble
4

It's only my 2nd time here cuz its new and I'm new to the area, yet I do enjoy their food. And so far, it's the nearest Hawaiian BBQ place to where I live. I normally go for the combo plate w bbq beef, and the amount is very fulfilling. Also, they provide healthier options to go for as an alternative.

Louie Valle
5

I’m actually going to pick up another order right now from this delicious place! We’ve been enjoying it since they first opened last year. The food is great fresh delicious and tasty. I’m not Hawaiian, but I love Hawaiian food I go every year to Hawaii and it reminds me of that beautiful time. This is definitely original and lovely way better than the rest out there so if you gonna choose Hawaiian barbecue the best!! We’ve been there probably 10 times in the last year and will continue going. Thank you for the great food and great service. See you soon.

Ruben
5

The name says it all! Delicious food great serving sizes and awesome customer service. Definitely coming back, you should too!

Location

  • Best Hawaiian BBQ
    Best Hawaiian BBQ
    2638 Union Ave, San Jose, CA 95124, United States Hotline: +1 408-628-4338

Best Hawaiian BBQ, nestled in the heart of San Jose at 2638 Union Ave, offers a genuine taste of the islands with a focused barbecue menu that celebrates Hawaiian classics. This modest yet inviting spot stands out for its generous portions and authentic flavors, blending traditional Hawaiian ingredients and cooking styles with a welcoming neighborhood vibe.

The menu boasts standout items like Spam Musubi, a beloved Hawaiian snack featuring savory spam wrapped in vinegared rice and seaweed, delivering a perfect balance of saltiness and umami. Their Hawaiian BBQ Short Ribs impress with tender, well-seasoned meat that captures the essence of island-style barbecue – smoky, sweet, and richly satisfying. Another highlight is the Spam Eggs & Rice, a comforting plate that epitomizes simple yet hearty island comfort food.

For those seeking variety, dishes like Kalua Pork with Cabbage Bowl and Fried Shrimp add depth and texture, while sides such as the crispy Spring Rolls, Fried Gyoza, and Lumpia provide delightful bites that complement the main courses. The inclusion of Milk Tea on the menu is a thoughtful touch, balancing savory flavors with smooth, creamy sweetness.

Customer feedback echoes the quality and value of this spot. Reviews highlight the freshness of the ingredients and the authentic Hawaiian style, praising the large portions and flavorful, well-seasoned dishes. The Spicy Chicken platter, with its bold kick and classic sides of rice and macaroni salad, exemplifies the restaurant’s commitment to generous and satisfying meals. Quick, friendly service further enhances the experience, making it an excellent choice for a fast yet fulfilling meal.

While some note a slightly higher price point compared to other Hawaiian BBQ establishments, the quality and authenticity justify the cost. Minor points like a saltier Spam Musubi or a lighter curry flavor do little to detract from the overall impression. This is a place where every entrée serves as a mouthwatering tribute to Hawaiian cuisine, evoking memories of island shores through vibrant, hearty flavors.

Best Hawaiian BBQ delivers not just a meal, but a slice of Hawaii in San Jose — authentic, flavorful, and deeply satisfying. It’s an ideal spot for both fans of Hawaiian plate lunches and newcomers eager to explore island cuisine. Whether for a quick lunch or a relaxed dinner, this barbecue joint promises a hearty culinary journey worth returning to.

Business Information

  • Accessibility
    • Wheelchair-accessible car park
    • Wheelchair-accessible entrance
    • Wheelchair-accessible seating
  • Service options
    • Delivery
    • Takeaway
    • Dine-in
  • Payments
    • Credit cards