Ippy’s Hawaiian BBQ
Casual Waimea stop for Hawaiian plate lunches and BBQ with generous portions and a local following. Expect counter-service, a bright dining room, and dependable value.
- counter service
- large portions
- indoor seating
- takeout
Ippy’s Hawaiian BBQ is a casual Waimea stop built for hearty plate lunches, barbecue, and fast, dependable value. It stands out for its generous portions and its strong sense of place: this is a family-rooted Big Island operation shaped by chef Philip “Ippy” Aiona, a Waimea native who returned home after culinary training to open a spot centered on the food he grew up with. For travelers driving across the Kohala side of the island, it works well as an easy lunch or dinner anchor.
What it does best
The kitchen’s sweet spot is Hawaiian plate lunch, especially the kinds of mixed-plate combinations that come with big portions and familiar sides. Kalbi short ribs and garlic shrimp get the strongest praise, while kalua pig, teriyaki beef, grilled mahi-mahi, and coconut shrimp round out a menu that covers both barbecue comfort and local favorites. Sides like mac salad, pineapple coleslaw, and sweet potato fries help give the plates their classic Hawaiʻi feel.
Value is a major part of the appeal. This is budget-friendly food by Big Island standards, and the portions are large enough that many diners can stretch one plate into two meals. For travelers who want a filling, local-style meal without a long wait or a hefty check, that combination is hard to beat.
The feel of the place
Expect counter-service rather than a sit-down restaurant format. The dining room is bright, practical, and unfussy, with indoor seating and a takeout-friendly setup. It has the feel of a place made for real-life use: families, road trippers, and anyone who wants something satisfying without a lot of ceremony. That makes it especially useful in Waimea, where a solid casual lunch can be more valuable than a polished dining room.
Good fit, and a few tradeoffs
Ippy’s is best for travelers who want classic Hawaiian BBQ, large portions, and an easygoing atmosphere. It is also a sensible family stop, with a casual layout and straightforward service. The main tradeoff is that this is a meat-forward, fast-casual operation, so it is not the place for a refined dining experience or a very light meal. Peak lunch and dinner times can also bring a crowd, and quality may feel a little uneven from dish to dish. For visitors who want local comfort food in a straightforward setting, though, it remains one of Waimea’s most practical bets.
