Ippy’s Hawaiian BBQ

If you want to experience the true taste of the Big Island, be sure to stop by Ippy’s Hawaiian BBQ. This cozy and popular spot is located in the picturesque town of Waimea in the USA. The restaurant specializes in authentic Hawaiian barbecue and is famous among travelers for its generous portions and incredibly friendly atmosphere.

Ippy’s Hawaiian BBQ. Иллюстрация. Источник: Kupi.com AI

This place is a true paradise for meat and seafood lovers. They serve classic island dishes such as kalua pork, teriyaki beef, and garlic shrimp. The establishment's high rating (4.7) reflects the exceptional freshness of its ingredients, including local meats and the signature pineapple coleslaw, which has become a hallmark of Chef Ippy's kitchen.

The interior follows a simple and clean casual style: you place your order at the counter, and then the food is brought to your table. This laid-back environment is perfect for a family lunch or a quick bite while traveling through Hawaii. The venue is fully wheelchair accessible and offers high chairs for young children.

For more details or to place a takeout order, you can use the following contact information for Ippy’s Hawaiian BBQ:

The main reason to visit Ippy’s Hawaiian BBQ is, of course, to try their legendary plate lunch. Sample the famous kalbi ribs in a sweet marinade or the juicy kalua pork. If you love seafood, be sure to order the garlic shrimp—many travelers consider them the best on the entire coast. For those who want to try a bit of everything, mixed plates are available, allowing you to combine two main dishes.

In addition to classic BBQ, the menu features Hawaiian hits like Loco Moco (rice topped with a burger patty, egg, and gravy), saimin soup, and Maui burgers. Keep an eye out for unique items, such as the house salad with gorgonzola and caramelized walnuts. Portions here are truly substantial, so many guests choose to take leftovers with them—the takeout packaging is very convenient.

The atmosphere is very welcoming; the staff is always ready to help with recommendations, including gluten-free options. You can watch the well-coordinated kitchen at work and enjoy the mouthwatering aromas of flame-grilled meat, pairing your meal with a cold soda or a local beer.

Ippy’s Hawaiian BBQ is conveniently located right on the main Mamalahoa Highway (also known as the Hawaii Belt Rd) in the heart of town. It is easy to spot from the road, making it an excellent stop for travelers exploring the northern part of the Big Island.

If you are driving from popular tourist areas such as Kona or Waikoloa Village, the drive along Highway 19 or 190 will take between 30 and 60 minutes. On-site parking is available for visitors, which makes stopping at this popular spot very easy.

Public transportation on the island is not very extensive, so the most comfortable way to get there is by renting a car or taking a taxi from the town center. Waimea is a wonderful transit point where you can grab a delicious bite before continuing your journey to the nature parks or the coast.

Although Ippy’s Hawaiian BBQ is a relatively young establishment (active reviews began appearing around 2022), it has already become a key spot on the island's culinary map. The restaurant embodies the long-standing traditions of the Hawaiian plate lunch—a unique style of casual dining that originated on plantations and combined the culinary influences of Asian, Polynesian, and American cuisines.

The establishment gained particular fame through its owner, Chef Ippy. He became a well-known figure after appearing on the popular culinary TV show Bobby Flay's BBQ Brawl, where he showcased his barbecue skills. This media success added charm to the restaurant and attracted the attention of tourists from all over the world.

The restaurant's philosophy is built on using local products. Island-sourced meats and fresh ingredients help maintain the authenticity that locals value in true Hawaiian food. Despite not having a century-long history, the restaurant has already become a symbol of high-quality modern barbecue in Waimea.

A typical visit to Ippy’s Hawaiian BBQ usually takes about 45–60 minutes. This is enough time to place your order at the counter, wait about 10–15 minutes for your meal to be prepared, and enjoy your food in the relaxed atmosphere.

If you plan to visit during peak lunch or dinner hours, it is worth allowing a little extra time, as the spot's popularity with locals can lead to short queues. The generous portions often encourage guests to take their time and savor every bite of the juicy meat and signature sides.

Ippy’s Hawaiian BBQ welcomes guests six days a week. The restaurant's schedule is very consistent, making it easy to plan a lunch or early dinner during your trip around the island:

From Monday to Saturday, the restaurant is open from 11:00 AM to 8:00 PM. Please note that the establishment is closed on Sunday, so be sure to plan for other dining options on that day.

The town of Waimea offers travelers more than just great food; it’s an opportunity to immerse yourself in Hawaii's cowboy culture and local history. A stroll through the area after a hearty meal at Ippy’s Hawaiian BBQ is a great way to experience the unique character of this region.

Below are some interesting sites located within walking distance or a short drive from the restaurant: