




Y'Kele Korean BBQ
About
A Local Staple in the Heart of Waipahu
Finding a reliable spot for Korean BBQ in Waipahu usually leads hungry locals straight to Y'Kele Korean BBQ. This no-frills destination keeps things focused on the grill, serving up generous portions of marinated meats that define the local plate lunch culture. The air inside is consistently thick with the savory, charcoal-scented aroma of galbi hitting a hot surface, a familiar smell that hits you the moment you pull into the lot.
The BBQ Experience
The menu leans into the classics that have made Hawaiian-style Korean BBQ a household favorite. Their beef brisket and spicy pork are standout orders, often accompanied by the essential side of mac salad and scoops of white rice that are standard for the area. Everything is prepared with a home-cooked sensibility—don't expect white-tablecloth service; expect foil-wrapped plates and hearty, iron-rich flavors meant to be eaten while still piping hot.
Why the Locals Keep Coming Back
Y'Kele is built for the post-work crowd or families looking for a quick, filling dinner without the fuss. It is the kind of place where you hear the rhythmic clatter of tongs against metal grills and the hum of a busy kitchen. Be prepared to navigate the parking situation, which can get a bit tight during the peak lunch and dinner rushes, but it’s a minor hurdle for the quality of meat you are getting. If you are exploring the culinary landscape of Oahu’s Ewa Plain and find yourself craving something bold and savory, this neighborhood hub delivers a consistent, satisfying meal every single time.
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Amenities & Features
Location
94-799 Lumiaina St Ste J, Waipahu, Hawaii, 96797-5046
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Reviews
Showing 3 of 20 community reviewsStephanie IshiiGoogle Maps
Recently
Out of all the Korean BBQ places this is absolutely head and shoulders above the rest. The plates are around $22 but it’s enough for 3 people! The spicy chicken meat jun plate was amazing! I got the best rice temp and texture I’ve had on this island! On top the rice was probably 4 chicken thighs covered in spicy sauce that saturated the top of the rice magnificent! The meat jun was executed well and added a nice balance to the heat. The veggies were perfect in texture and spice! We got delivery on uber eats today because our usual place was closed so grateful they delivered as I just had a back procedure and can’t drive. Definitely recommend! 🌟 🌟🌟🌟🌟
Alcindor NowGoogle Maps
Recently
One of the worse chicken katsu I ever had. I only ate one piece. I couldn’t eat anymore. It seems like they had left overs of the chicken katsu and they just refried it again so it’s hot. But um, it was very hard and dry. Refer to the photo though I think the photo provided justice. It looked much worse with the naked eyes. Never again.. prices are a tag high. As for the service, well… my plate was ready and it was left on the counter for a while. She even looked at it but continued to do other things. I was standing at the counter watching her looking at my plate as she ignored it and did other things. She finally then grabbed my plate, opened it, and placed the katsu sauce inside. She then closed it and continued to do other things. I had to say, is that my chicken katsu??? She goes, yeah… so I was like. Can I have it? She goes oh… she got the plate and placed in a plastic bag and gave it to me. I wonder how long I would have been there if I didn’t say a word.
Ariel W.Google Maps
Recently
Quality and quantity gone way down. Yet prices went up tremendously. I ordered kalbi and chicken combo. Both items came out burned. There were like three pieces of chicken and two of them were drumsticks with barely any meat on them. Vegetables were ok but they give you a lot less than before. Picture shown an $18 "regular" size plate. What a rip off! Definitely will not return to this place.
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Frequently Asked Questions about Y'Kele Korean BBQ
Common questions from diners about Y'Kele Korean BBQ in Waipahu.
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