




Char Siu House
About
A Local Institution for Cantonese Roast Meats
Tucked away in the heart of Kaimuki, Char Siu House has served as a cornerstone for Honolulu residents craving traditional Chinese BBQ. Stepping inside, you are greeted by the unmistakable aroma of five-spice and caramelized soy sauce, with rows of glistening, honey-glazed pork hanging in the display case. It is a no-frills, utilitarian space where the focus stays strictly on the quality of the roast rather than the interior design.
The Art of the Roast
The mastery here lies in the execution of the house-made char siu and crispy skin roast pork (lechon-style). The meat strikes a precise balance between lean and rendered fat, featuring that distinct, vibrant red hue synonymous with classic Cantonese preparations. Regulars know to arrive early; the roast duck and specialty meats often sell out by the afternoon, leaving the display cases bare by closing time.
Dining Expectations
If you visit during the lunch rush, expect a queue that spills toward the door. Parking in this part of Honolulu can be a minor challenge, so keep an eye out for nearby street stalls or shared lots. While there is minimal seating, most patrons treat this as a quick-stop destination, grabbing a styrofoam container filled with BBQ pork over rice to take to the nearby beaches or back to the office. It is the ideal spot for a quick, savory, and authentic meal that prioritizes deep, traditional flavors over modern fusion trends.
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Amenities & Features
Location
1134 Maunakea St, Honolulu, Hawaii, 96817-5131
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Reviews
Showing 9 of 15 community reviewsjessGoogle Maps
Recently
Genuinely the best roast duck & roast pork we've ever had. Some restaurants either get roast duck/pork right or they don't at all. This place absolutely does it right. We got the roast duck with tripe & roast pork with pig stomach bentos. The duck & pork was juicy through & through. Pork was perfectly crispy without trying to cut the roof of my mouth. The sauce that comes with was flavorful without being too salty. The tripe & pig stomach were both amazing as well & not too chewy or tough. Staff was friendly & service was quick. We almost passed on this place but so glad we stopped by!
Michelle Plourde (Misha)Google Maps
Recently
Just a takeout place, but their roast duck was excellent. $40 for a whole duck +2 sauce. We bought extra sauce, and I would definitely recommend that. The duck was really lean and tender
Favorite ThingsGoogle Maps
Recently
Very good roast pork and duck. This is definitely a decent stop when you're in China Town. It's strange there are only a few good places for roast pork & duck in China Town, but I would defiantly include New Char Siu House
H SGoogle Maps
Recently
The meat selection is good here. They are very prompt with what you order. I decided to cut the meat at home myself.
My CalendarGoogle Maps
Recently
The well known, popular place next to Sing Cheong closed last year so we've been going here. Prices are a little higher than the one a few blocks away but it's still very good. Friendly service, right across from parking lot too. Best to eat the roast pork and duck right away so the skin is still crispy
Luis BGoogle Maps
Recently
The roasted duck and pork at this establishment are exceptional, reminiscent of authentic Chinese flavors found in Los Angeles. The customer service is outstanding, always ensuring a pleasant visit with minimal wait times. While parking in a nearby lot is convenient, the restaurant itself lacks indoor seating; however, just a short walk away, the bustling market offers ample seating amidst various shops and a vibrant atmosphere.
Bill FongGoogle Maps
Recently
Good service, selection and taste of Chinese roasted specialities! Service was quick and efficient! Place us located in the middle of Chinatown Honolulu, which was convenient to pick-up!
Damon LengGoogle Maps
Recently
A genuine Asian experience in Honolulu! Came here and got the Roast Duck and Pork. The duck was delicious and flavourful, however there could have been more meat on it imo. The roast pork was amazing as well and the skin was crispy. The rice was white and cooked well, similarly with the Asian vegetables! A must visit if you’re in Oahu!
Kevin CGoogle Maps
Recently
Visiting from Houston. I travel a fair amount and seem to find my way into chinatowns all over. Char Sui House has some of the best Crispy Roast Pork and Char Siu. Also the roast duck was good. It’s a little shop with friendly people. Parking is a little bit of a pain.. but found a paid parking lot 1 block over ($1-$3) Will definitely visit again.
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Frequently Asked Questions about Char Siu House
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