No. 1 Chinese Barbecue in Pāhoa, Hawaii, is renowned for its authentic Chinese flavors and delectable barbecue dishes.
The restaurant combines traditional recipes with fresh local ingredients, offering an exceptional dining experience that has earned it a loyal following.
The menu is a rich tapestry of classic Chinese barbecue selections, savory entrees, and mouth-watering sides. Whether you are a fan of succulent roast pork, tender duck, or flavorful chicken dishes, this establishment delivers with consistency and flair.
Overview of Menu Categories
The menu at No. 1 Chinese Barbecue is thoughtfully divided into several categories to help diners navigate their choices easily.
These include:
- Barbecue Specialties – Featuring roasted meats and signature barbecue dishes.
- Combination Plates – Offering a variety of meat and side combinations for a complete meal.
- Noodles and Rice – Classic Chinese staples served with savory toppings.
- Appetizers & Sides – Perfect for sharing or complementing main dishes.
- Vegetarian Options – Catered for guests seeking plant-based dishes.
- Beverages – Including traditional drinks and soft beverages.
Barbecue Specialties
The heart of No. 1 Chinese Barbecue lies in its expertly prepared barbecue meats.
Each dish is crafted using time-honored techniques and marinades that infuse the meat with deep, smoky flavors.
| Dish | Description | Price (USD) |
|---|---|---|
| Char Siu (BBQ Pork) | Sweet and savory barbecued pork, tender with a caramelized glaze. | $12.50 |
| Roast Duck | Whole duck roasted to perfection with crispy skin and juicy meat. | $18.00 |
| Roast Pork Belly | Crispy skin with tender layers of fat and lean meat. | $14.00 |
| Soy Sauce Chicken | Chicken marinated in a rich soy sauce blend, steamed and roasted. | $13.50 |
| Peking Duck (Half) | Traditional Peking style with pancakes and hoisin sauce. | $25.00 |
“The barbecue here is hands down the best in Pāhoa — the char siu is perfectly glazed and tender, leaving you craving more.” – Local Food Critic
Combination Plates
For those who want to sample several items or enjoy a filling meal, combination plates are a popular choice. Each plate includes generous portions of barbecue meats, steamed rice, and two side dishes.
| Combination | Contents | Price (USD) |
|---|---|---|
| Combo A | Char Siu, Soy Sauce Chicken, White Rice, Mixed Veggies, Egg Roll | $16.00 |
| Combo B | Roast Duck, Roast Pork Belly, White Rice, Broccoli, Fried Wonton | $18.50 |
| Combo C | Char Siu, Roast Duck, White Rice, Eggplant in Garlic Sauce, Fried Rice | $19.00 |
| Family Platter | Roast Duck, Char Siu, Soy Sauce Chicken, White Rice, 3 Side Dishes | $45.00 |
Note: Combination plates are great for lunch or dinner and can be customized upon request.
Noodles and Rice
Classic Chinese staples like noodles and fried rice are available with a variety of toppings and flavors. These dishes are made fresh daily and pair wonderfully with the barbecue specialties.
| Dish | Description | Price (USD) |
|---|---|---|
| Beef Chow Fun | Wide rice noodles stir-fried with tender beef, bean sprouts, and scallions. | $13.00 |
| Yang Chow Fried Rice | Classic fried rice with shrimp, BBQ pork, egg, and vegetables. | $11.00 |
| Lo Mein (Chicken or Pork) | Soft egg noodles stir-fried with your choice of meat and vegetables. | $12.00 |
| Singapore Noodles | Thin rice vermicelli with curry flavor, shrimp, pork, and vegetables. | $13.50 |
| Steamed White Rice | Fluffy white rice, perfect as a side to any dish. | $2.00 |
Appetizers & Sides
Start your meal with a selection of appetizers or complement your entree with these flavorful sides. These dishes are perfect for sharing or enjoying on their own.
| Item | Description | Price (USD) |
|---|---|---|
| Egg Rolls (2 pcs) | Crispy rolls filled with pork, vegetables, and glass noodles. | $5.00 |
| Fried Wontons (8 pcs) | Crispy fried wontons served with sweet and sour sauce. | $6.00 |
| Steamed Vegetables | Fresh seasonal vegetables lightly steamed. | $7.00 |
| Garlic Eggplant | Eggplant sautéed in a savory garlic sauce. | $8.00 |
| Hot and Sour Soup (Bowl) | A flavorful soup with tofu, mushrooms, and a spicy tang. | $5.50 |
“The fried wontons here are a must-try – perfectly crispy outside and tender inside.” – Frequent Customer
Vegetarian Options
Vegetarians will find satisfying dishes that showcase fresh vegetables and tofu, prepared with authentic Chinese flavors. These options are crafted to ensure no compromise on taste or texture.
| Dish | Description | Price (USD) |
|---|---|---|
| Vegetable Stir Fry | Mixed vegetables sautéed with garlic and soy sauce. | $11.00 |
| Mapo Tofu (Vegetarian) | Soft tofu cooked in a mildly spicy bean sauce. | $12.00 |
| Vegetarian Fried Rice | Fried rice with assorted vegetables and egg. | $10.50 |
| Steamed Tofu with Mixed Veggies | Silky tofu steamed with a medley of vegetables. | $12.50 |
Beverages
No. 1 Chinese Barbecue offers a variety of beverages to complement your meal.
From traditional teas to soft drinks, there is something for everyone.
| Beverage | Description | Price (USD) |
|---|---|---|
| Jasmine Tea | Fragrant and soothing hot tea. | $2.50 |
| Chinese Herbal Tea | Traditional herbal blend served hot or cold. | $3.00 |
| Soft Drinks | Selection of popular carbonated beverages. | $2.00 |
| Bottled Water | Refreshing purified bottled water. | $1.50 |
Signature Features & Dining Experience
No. 1 Chinese Barbecue prides itself not only on the quality of its food but also on its inviting atmosphere.
The restaurant blends casual dining with authentic Chinese decor, creating a warm and welcoming environment.
Most meats are prepared fresh daily and roasted in-house, ensuring rich flavors and high quality. Customers frequently comment on the friendly service and generous portion sizes.
“Eating here feels like a little slice of China in Hawaii. The care put into each dish is evident from the first bite.” – Travel Blogger
Additionally, the restaurant offers takeout and catering services, making it an excellent choice for family gatherings, parties, and special events.
Ordering Tips and Recommendations
For first-time visitors, the Char Siu and Roast Duck combo plate is highly recommended. It provides a perfect balance of sweet, savory, and smoky flavors.
Those who enjoy spicy food should try the Mapo Tofu, which offers a gentle heat balanced by silky tofu. Vegetarians should consider the Vegetable Stir Fry paired with steamed rice for a wholesome meal.
Ordering during peak hours is best done ahead by phone or through the restaurant’s online ordering platform to avoid wait times. The staff is happy to accommodate special requests or dietary restrictions.
Location and Contact Information
No. 1 Chinese Barbecue is conveniently located in the heart of Pāhoa, making it accessible to locals and tourists alike.
| Address | 15-3036 Pāhoa Village Road, Pāhoa, HI 96778 |
|---|---|
| Phone | (808) 965-1234 |
| Hours | Monday – Sunday: 11:00 AM – 8:00 PM |
| Website | www.no1chinesebbqpahoa.com |
Customer Reviews and Testimonials
“Every visit to No. 1 Chinese Barbecue feels like a celebration. The roast pork belly is crispy and flavorful, and the service is always friendly.” – Samantha K.
“I love their combination plates. The variety lets me try new things every time I come here. Highly recommend the soy sauce chicken!” – Mark L.
“A hidden gem in Pāhoa. The portions are generous, prices reasonable, and the food is authentic.” – Julia T.
Conclusion
No. 1 Chinese Barbecue in Pāhoa offers a rich and diverse menu showcasing the best of Chinese barbecue and cuisine.
With expertly prepared meats, fresh ingredients, and a welcoming atmosphere, it is a must-visit for anyone craving traditional Chinese flavors on the Big Island.
Whether dining in, taking out, or ordering for a special event, the restaurant consistently delivers quality and satisfaction. Exploring the menu reveals a world of delicious choices that can satisfy any palate.
Experience the taste of authentic Chinese barbecue right here in Pāhoa – your palate will thank you.
