Cham Cham Korean BBQ - Hilo Restaurant Image
Cham Cham Korean BBQ - Hilo Restaurant Image
Cham Cham Korean BBQ - Hilo Restaurant Image
#65 of 175 Restaurants in Hilo Barbecue

Cham Cham Korean BBQ

3.9(29 community reviews)
Moderate ($$)

About

Discover Cham Cham Korean BBQ, offering the best Asian experience in Hilo. Enjoy Moderate ($$) meals, explore their menu, and read reviews from the community on TasteHi.

Sizzling Grills in the Heart of Hilo

When the craving for authentic Korean comfort food hits in Hilo, Cham Cham Korean BBQ delivers the goods. Tucked away from the main tourist drag, this local favorite captures the essence of a traditional cook-at-your-table experience. The air inside is consistently thick with the savory, delicious scent of marinated meats hitting high-heat flat tops, creating an atmosphere that feels more like a bustling family kitchen than a formal dining room.

The Flavors of Seoul on the Big Island

Known for generous portions that define the local appetite, the menu features all the staples you expect: crispy, tangy kimchi, savory japchae, and, of course, the signature bulgogi. Each plate arrives accompanied by an array of banchan—the small, side dishes that turn a quick meal into a full feast. Whether you are a fan of spicy pork or perfectly charred short ribs, the kitchen focuses on robust, straightforward flavors that prioritize substance over pretense.

What to Expect

This spot is built for groups of friends or families looking for a low-key, high-reward dinner. It is not a place for hushed whispers; expect the energetic clatter of metal chopsticks against stainless steel bowls and the lively hum of conversation. While the parking situation in this part of Hilo can get a little tight during the dinner rush, the payoff—a piping hot meal that warms the soul—is well worth navigating the lot. Grab a cold drink, pull up a chair, and prepare for a hearty, authentic meal that stays true to its Korean roots.

Photos

Cham Cham Korean BBQ - Hilo Restaurant Image
Cham Cham Korean BBQ - Hilo Restaurant Image
Cham Cham Korean BBQ - Hilo Restaurant Image

Location

421 Kalanikoa St Ste 102, Hilo, Hawaii, 96720-4503

Directions

Reviews

Showing 7 of 29 community reviews
J

Jean ShermanGoogle Maps

Recently

Absolutely delicious food, great service. A surprising little hole in the wall that we will definitely return to again 😀 …

N

Nickawanna ShawGoogle Maps

Recently

I've been here several times, I live real close. Yes, the speed of your meal will vary and, depending on how you've pre-partied, you'll either be patient or not. They don't have a huge staff and the food is prepared fresh. The food is worth the wait, so have a snack first if you're planning to come. I've seen a lot of hangry people not be so kind.

Z

Zoe UhrGoogle Maps

Recently

Went at 6pm on a saturday night. Ordered at 6:20 maybe and didnt get food until 7pm so waited for 40 min. Appetizers/side dishes came at like 6:40pm. Rice 10 min after. Kim chee stew was good 4.5/5, bbq chicken and meat jun was ok, 3/5. side dishes great. service very sparse, waited forever and had to walk up front to get the check.

C

C. T.Google Maps

Recently

Korean comfort food. 🙏🙏❤️❤️❤️🍲🍜🔥 lots of food, good variety of banchan side dishes included, nice people and open late compared to many other places in Hilo. Dine in or take out, I'm Always happy to get some dinner here when I'm in Hilo. Thank you 😊(photo is spicy cold buckwheat noodles with toppings, and fish Jun with 4 choices banchan side dishes and rice)

J

Jill DorseyGoogle Maps

Recently

Very yummy food! The seafood pancake was filling and very delicious. Veggies were fresh and delightful. Meat jun and kalbi ribs were also great. We will definitely be back. Mahalo!

C

Charles ParkGoogle Maps

Recently

First time back since the pandemic....the Korean food was on point and as tasty as ever. The interior has an old-school vibe and the Korean food is hands down the best on Big Island. We were craving Korean food since landing in Kona a week ago so the tasty mains (we got bibimbap, kimchi fried rice and seafood soft tofu stew with kimchi) really hit the spot. It's a shame Kona doesn't have any legit Korean spots for the locals/visitors to frequent....don't hesitate to make 1.5 hour trip to Cham Cham (Hilo) from Kona....your belly will thank you :)

A

Arthur AkauGoogle Maps

Recently

We were in the area and craving some Korean BBQ. It's been a few years since we've been here but we're so glad we popped in. Our waitress Taylor promptly greeted us and brought us menus and water. We ordered a Meat Jun & BBQ Chicken plate and a Kalbi & BBQ Chicken plate. After placing our order, Taylor bought out our veggies. The veggies were so tasty. We actually finished most of the veggies before our plates arrived. When our order arrived, our waitress realized that my wife's plate was wrong. Instead of Meat Jun they gave Chicken Katsu. It's a good thing my wife likes Chicken Katsu too. Since the kitchen made the mistake, my wife got to keep the Katsu and they brought out her Meat Jun within 5 minutes. My wife was thrilled since she got to take home leftovers. All the meats were cooked to perfection. And honestly, the best we've had in Hilo. The mandoo sauce was so delicious too! I finished up our meal with some soothing Lavender tea. We left the restaurant very satisfied and vowed to return again. Great eats complimented with superb service!!

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Frequently Asked Questions about Cham Cham Korean BBQ

Common questions from diners about Cham Cham Korean BBQ in Hilo.

Yes, takeout is available.

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