30 Photos
ZipPicks Awards
Best BBQ Ribs in the Excelsior
Best BBQ in the Excelsior
Master Critic Review
Aloha BBQ
8.1
Excelsior counter spot for Hawaiian BBQ plates, including marinated short ribs (kalbi) with rice and mac salad. Portions run large and the line moves quickly at peak meal times.
Must-Try Dishes:
BBQ Short Ribs (kalbi) plate, BBQ Mix Plate (beef, chicken, short ribs), Loco Moco
Scores:
Value: 8.4
Service: 7.8
Consistency: 8
Food Quality: 8.3
Atmosphere: 6.6
Cultural Relevance: 8.3
What makes it special: Plate-lunch short ribs with classic sides and quick counter flow.
Who should go: Hungry diners craving hefty plates
When to visit: 11:30am–1pm moves fast; late lunch is calmer
What to order: Short ribs plate; BBQ mix; spam musubi
Insider tip: Swap mac for tossed salad if you want a lighter plate.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking along Mission Street and nearby residential blocks; can be tight during lunch hours but generally available within a block or two.
Dress code: Casual; shorts, tees, and workwear all common—come as you are.
Noise level: Moderate; steady counter bustle but still easy to hold a conversation.
Weekend wait: 10–20 minutes during peak dinner rush; moves quickly thanks to efficient service.
Weekday lunch: Usually a short 5-minute wait at most, even when busy.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Limited—1–2 sides like mac salad, rice, or tossed salad can be made without meat.
Vegan options: Very limited; no dedicated vegan mains, but rice and salad can form a light plate.
Gluten-free options: Partial—most meats and rice are gluten-free, but soy marinades and sauces may contain gluten; no separate prep area.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Not ideal for a formal date—it's more casual and quick-serve, but great for a laid-back lunch or low-key dinner where conversation flows easily.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes; walk-ins only. Tables turn quickly, so even during peak times you’ll usually find seating after a brief wait.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes—portions are generous and the casual setup suits families. High chairs available upon request.
Best For
Better for: Faster service and larger portions than most sit-down BBQ joints nearby; excellent value for families or hearty appetites.
Skip if: You’re seeking upscale ambience or smoked-style BBQ—this is Hawaiian plate-lunch comfort, not Texas pit barbecue.
Hours
Monday10am - 9pm
Tuesday10am - 9pm
Wednesday10am - 9pm
Thursday10am - 9pm
Friday10am - 9pm
Saturday10am - 9pm
Sunday10am - 9pm