About
A Taste of Chef Ippy's Island Roots
When you find yourself wandering through the heart of Waikoloa Village, the smoky, savory scent of slow-cooked meats drifting from Ippy's Hawaiian Barbeque is hard to ignore. Founded by Chef Ippy Aiona—a familiar face to fans of Food Network’s Next Food Network Star—this spot brings a refined edge to the traditional plate lunch culture found across the Big Island.
The Plate Lunch Experience
Forget fine dining linens; this is where you come for generous portions served in foam containers. The menu highlights the quintessential Hawaiian barbeque experience, featuring staples like the Kalua pork, which is shredded to tender perfection, and the signature teri-beef that hits that ideal balance of sweet and salty. If you are feeling hungry, the mixed plates are the way to go, allowing you to sample multiple proteins alongside that essential, soul-satisfying scoop of macaroni salad.
The Atmosphere of the Village
The vibe here is quintessentially casual. It is a bustling, no-frills environment where you might find yourself waiting a few extra minutes during the lunch rush, but the payoff is a hot meal that feels authentic to the local lifestyle. The seating is modest, often crowded by residents grabbing a quick bite before heading back to work or tourists looking for a reliable, hearty meal after a day at the nearby Kohala Coast resorts. Keep in mind that the parking lot can get a bit tight during peak hours, so approach with a bit of patience—the Kahlua pork is well worth the minor navigation challenge.
Why Locals Keep Coming Back
Ippy’s stands out by keeping things consistent. It isn't trying to reinvent the wheel; it is focused on nailing the comfort foods that define Waikoloa food culture. Whether you are a first-time visitor curious about what real Hawaiian BBQ tastes like or a regular looking for a reliable lunch spot that doesn't break the bank, this kitchen delivers a genuine slice of the islands without the pretense.
Location
69-201 Waikoloa Beach Dr, Waikoloa, Hawaii, 96738
More to Explore
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Reviews
Showing 6 of 0 community reviewsDave HoughtalingGoogle Maps
Recently
I make a point to go to this place a few times during my stay on this side of the island. The people that work there are really awesome especially the young lady that runs the counter. I remember I heard from last year. Food is pretty good too. pricing they're riding line with everybody else
Ron EGoogle Maps
Recently
This place is hands down our favorite restaurant on the Big Island. Every single time we visit from Arizona, they make us feel so welcome like family. The food is absolutely incredible, but honestly, the customer service is what keeps us coming back. Everyone here is genuinely kind, friendly, and attentive, which is so rare these days. It’s definitely a bit of a drive from Kona, but it is 100% worth it every single time. Great food, amazing prices, and the warmest people. I recommend this place to everyone visiting the island. Truly one of the highlights of our trips to Hawaiʻi.
HUNTER JOHNSONGoogle Maps
Recently
Drove 1hr and 45min from Rosewood Village to get some great local food and then we found out they were on Food Network!! What a treat and the food was great but the service was better!! We also loved the 2:00 pm mist and cloud roll in. Great place to visit on the Big Island!!
Michele & RobertGoogle Maps
Recently
The woman behind the counter who took our order was so nice and friendly and really set the stage for our experience. She made some recommendations and was quite patient as we decided what to order. We ordered the chicken teriyaki with rice and a mixed plate with Kalua pork and sweet and sour shrimp with sides of pineapple cole slaw and potato salad. The overall portions are quite ample, especially for the price. The shrimp was deep fried (wasn’t aware of that when ordering), and there wasn’t much shrimp. The large pile of Kalua Pork made up for it (as did the amount of chicken teriyaki). The sides were ok — seemed lacking in a bit of pizzazz. For the price, this place is a winner.
Frank Avallone Mortgage LenderGoogle Maps
Recently
A great stop on our way home from an action packed day! Not a very long wait for our food at all. Sierra from the staff was exceptional with a positive vibe and a helping hand with guidance on what to order! It’s rare these days to experience good customer service but Sierra was top notch! The food was very good, would definitely stop by again if in the area.
David BoothGoogle Maps
Recently
Huge menu at this place and there is something for everyone. Kahlua pork, BBQ ribs, ono and mahi, local faves. Generous portions and good prices. They have a nice dessert selection and beer is available, including drafts... Across from BI brewhaus 🤙
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Frequently Asked Questions about Ippy's Hawaiian Barbeque
Common questions from diners about Ippy's Hawaiian Barbeque in Waikoloa.
