Guava Smoked
Hawaii
Try the open-air balcony seating for a laid-back dining experience.
Nestled on the second floor of 567 Kapahulu Ave in Honolulu, Guava Smoked offers a unique take on traditional barbecue with a local Hawaiian touch. The restaurant specializes in cold-smoked meats and fish using strawberry guava wood, providing a distinct flavor that reflects the culinary heritage of the islands. The casual atmosphere makes it an inviting spot for both locals and visitors looking to experience a different take on smoked cuisine.
The menu features a variety of smoked options, from pork and chicken to duck, each dish seasoned and prepared to showcase the smoky flavors enhanced by the local wood. The setting offers ample seating with a clean and welcoming environment, ideal for family gatherings, casual dinners, and small celebrations.
Guests at Guava Smoked have the flexibility of dining in or opting for takeout. The establishment also offers catering services, perfect for those who wish to bring the local flavors to their special events and parties. Located conveniently across from Nanding's Bakery, it is easily accessible for those exploring the Kapahulu area.
Whether savoring a meal on the open-air balcony or picking up an order to enjoy elsewhere, diners are treated to friendly service in a relaxed setting. Guava Smoked provides an authentic taste of Hawaii's local-style smoked meat, inviting patrons to explore a culinary tradition that is as flavorful as it is unique.
Reviews
Really enjoyed our meals here! Smoked duck, short rib, and pork. Really great! Definitely go here on your next trip to Honolulu.
I had been meaning to go for a while and I'm glad I finally did this past week. In summary, food was tasty, vibes were good, owner was friendly. I got the mixed plate (smoked hamburger patty/loco moco and smoked chicken) with some kimchi, fried egg, Mac salad, and a side of fried rice (it came with two scoops of regular rice). Price was around $38 if I remember correctly. Not too bad for a shareable meal. It came with a white/country style gravy, which surprised me but was lovely with the smoked hamburger patty and fried egg. Kimchi was great. Loved the chili water. Fried rice and Mac salad were very tasty as well. Chicken was a little dry which is my only real critique. But I got a leg and a thigh for one plate which was nice and the flavor was still good. Ultimately, I do plan to come back. I don't know of I'd necessarily get chicken again but I have seen lots of other reviews saying that the pork sandwich, the kalbi (short ribs), and even the chili are great so I'd probably get those. I also saw that on certain days they have duck. Honestly the duck might hold up better than the chicken against the drying power of the smoking process so I'd like to try that sometime as well. Kalbi was a bit higher priced (understandable) which was why I opted for a mixed plate with chicken this time, but I think I'll go back and get it next time. Good music. Friendly staff.
I swear I already reviewed this place ... Guava Smoked is my fav plate lunch on the island. I always uprade to all fried rice with gravy all ova! They have some beers on tap, do catering, and always treat us like we're friends. Our fav is the butterfish collars, kalbi, spicy pork loco moco, and salmon belly. I def recommend this place to locals and tourists. Parking is avail in back but if it's full there are spots on kapahulu and around the neighborhood.
This is the best local smoked restaurant that Ive ever tried. Its located on the upper floor of the building so it was quite hard to find. But the food is definitely worthy to try. They sell out fast so if you come in late, some items on the menu might not be available.
The atmosphere gets three stars because it’s a small diner located upstairs with a small parking lot in Honolulu. That being said, the food is just fabulous. There is a subtle sweetness to the smoky flavor that is imparted in their meats. Portions are generous and prices are very reasonable. You can get a “bowl” with a single entrée selection over rice for a little more than $10. I had to smoke duct and the portion was super generous.. The food was so good that we ended up eating there three times in a seven day period! I even purchased some cold packs so that I could bring home some of their frozen product. Their Kalbi is excellent, the smoked pork is moist and flavorful, and their smoked salmon belly is to die for ( available in frozen portions to take home) Service is prompt and friendly, will definitely go back on our next visit to Oahu.
