




Guava Smoked
About
A Smoke-Kissed Tradition in Kalihi
Tucked away in the industrial pockets of Kalihi, Guava Smoked brings a distinct, slow-cooked personality to the Honolulu food scene. The air here is perpetually thick with the scent of burning guava wood, a sweet, fruity aroma that clings to the tender pork belly and chicken as they emerge from the custom-built smokers. This is not a place for white-tablecloth service; it is a counter-service operation where the efficiency matches the intensity of the flavor.
The Art of Guava Wood
Everything centers on the wood. Using local guava wood gives the proteins a signature profile—lightly sweet, deeply aromatic, and far more complex than standard hickory or mesquite. The signature Guava Smoked Pork Belly is the clear standout, featuring a perfect render that balances a crispy edge with a melt-in-your-mouth interior. It’s served in generous portions that pair perfectly with a scoop of rice and their house-made dipping sauces. If you catch them on a busy afternoon, expect a line that snakes toward the door, though the service moves with a rhythm honed by years of catering to the local lunch crowd.
Local Insight for Your Visit
If you plan to swing by, bring a bit of patience regarding the parking situation; the lot can get cramped, typical of this bustling neighborhood. It is the perfect spot for those seeking an unpretentious, flavor-forward meal that feels inherently Hawaiian. Grab a box to-go and head toward the nearby coastline for an impromptu picnic, or stake out a spot at one of the small, utilitarian tables inside to soak in the smoky haze of the kitchen. It is arguably the most honest expression of modern Pacific smokehouse cooking in the city.
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Amenities & Features
Location
567 Kapahulu Ave 2nd Floor, entrance and parking on Campbell ave, Honolulu, Hawaii, 96815-3855
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Reviews
Showing 3 of 7 community reviewsRisa TerryGoogle Maps
Recently
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.
Karrie B.Google Maps
Recently
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.
RalphGoogle Maps
Recently
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.
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