Looking for Korean BBQ in Honolulu but don't want to pay $40+ for all-you-can-eat? Yakiniku Like is a Japanese BBQ restaurant where you grill your own meat at your table — starting at just $9.95. It's the perfect solo-friendly alternative to crowded Korean BBQ spots like Gen or Gyu-Kaku.
Originally from Japan, Yakiniku Like has become famous for bringing the yakiniku experience to individual diners at affordable prices. I visited their Ke'eaumoku Street location to try their yakiniku sets and see how it compares to Korean BBQ in Honolulu.
The verdict? If you've been searching for "korean bbq honolulu" but felt overwhelmed by big group setups, expensive AYCE prices, or long wait times — Yakiniku Like is your answer. Individual grills at each seat, order-from-your-phone convenience, and you're in and out in 30 minutes.
Yakiniku Like is located at 1108 Ke'eaumoku Street, Unit 101 in Honolulu, right in the heart of the Ala Moana area near Don Quijote and Walmart. The concept is simple: order from your phone via QR code, grill your meat on a personal tabletop heater, and enjoy unlimited rice refills during lunch hours.
What is Yakiniku?
Yakiniku literally means "grilled meat" in Japanese. It's Japan's version of Korean BBQ, but with thinner cuts of meat, lighter marinades, and Japanese-style sides like miso soup and rice instead of Korean banchan. The cooking style emphasizes the natural flavor of quality beef rather than heavy seasonings.
May 2026 Monthly Special
May Special — Available Now Through May 31!
Yakiniku Like runs a new special every month. This deal is valid from the 1st through the last day of the month.
Kalbi Short Plate Set
$9.95Kalbi Short Plate & Chicken Teriyaki
w/ Small Salad, Miso Soup, Kimchee, and Rice
Served with small salad, miso soup, kimchee, and rice
Mega Set
$15.95Kalbi Short Plate (7oz)
Chicken Teriyaki (3.5oz)
Served with small salad, miso soup, kimchee, and rice
Pro tip: Yakiniku Like changes their special on the 1st of every month. The May special pairs kalbi with chicken teriyaki — a solid combo at $9.95. We update this page monthly so you always have the latest deal.
Quick Facts
| Cuisine | Japanese Yakiniku (Grill-Your-Own BBQ) |
| Price Range | $10–$20 per person |
| Current Special | May: Kalbi Short Plate & Chicken Teriyaki $9.95 |
| Best For | Solo diners, couples, meat lovers |
| Reservations | Not accepted (walk-in only) |
| Parking | Free (in front of restaurant) |
| Wi-Fi | Yes (free) |
Yakiniku Like Honolulu Location & Hours
Yakiniku Like Honolulu is located on Ke'eaumoku Street in the Ala Moana area — one of the most convenient spots on Oahu for Japanese food lovers.
| Day | Hours |
|---|---|
| Monday | 11 AM – 10 PM |
| Tuesday | 11 AM – 10 PM |
| Wednesday | 11 AM – 10 PM |
| Thursday | 11 AM – 10 PM |
| Friday | 11 AM – 10 PM |
| Saturday | 11 AM – 10 PM |
| Sunday | 11 AM – 10 PM |
Hours last verified: May 2026
Hours last updated from Google: Jan 22, 2026
Address: 1108 Ke'eaumoku Street, Unit 101, Honolulu, HI 96814
Phone: (808) 597-9004
Parking: Free parking available in front of the restaurant. Street parking is also free.
Free parking right in front of the restaurant on Ke'eaumoku Street
The Vibe
When you walk in, you'll immediately notice this isn't your typical sit-down restaurant. The interior has an industrial-modern feel with exposed black ceilings, brick accent walls, and bold typography covering the walls with phrases like "CHEEHOO!!", "broke da mouth", "GRILL like it's HOT", and "Rice Above The Rest" — a fun nod to local Hawaiian culture mixed with Japanese aesthetics.
The open kitchen lets you watch the staff prepare orders behind a large glass window. There's a cow illustration on the brick wall with crossed utensils, and the Yakiniku Like branding is everywhere. It feels energetic and casual, not stuffy or formal.
Each table has its own personal grill heater built into the counter where you cook your meat. The setup is similar to Korean BBQ but designed for smaller parties or solo dining. Tables are separated by partitions, giving you some privacy while still feeling the buzz of the restaurant around you.
The seating includes both counter-style individual spots and booth seating for groups. If you're dining solo, you'll appreciate the counter setup — it doesn't feel awkward at all eating alone here because that's literally what the restaurant was designed for.
Pro Tip
If you're sitting close to the grill, you might feel the heat rising toward your face. When we first sat down, the heat was radiating up and I started getting a bit of a headache. Ask the waiter to lower the temperature — they can adjust it easily with a dial. After they turned it down, I felt much better and could actually enjoy the meal.
Table condiments: Each table has a sauce station with garlic soy sauce, regular soy sauce, lemon juice, salt, pepper, and other seasonings. The garlic soy is my favorite for dipping the cooked meat.
What We Ordered
Beef Lovers Set — $19.95 ← my order
I went with the Beef Lovers Set which includes 250g of meat across three different cuts: Kalbi Short Plate (100g), Misuji/Top Blade (100g), and Harami/Skirt Steak (50g). This is perfect if you want to try different textures and flavors of beef without committing to just one cut.
The Kalbi Short Plate is well-marbled and cooks quickly — it's the fattier, more flavorful option. The Misuji (top blade) is leaner with a nice beefy taste. The Harami (skirt steak) has more chew to it and great flavor. All three came pre-marinated in their signature tare sauce.
The set also includes rice, miso soup, a small salad with sesame dressing, and kimchi. It's a complete meal and definitely enough food for one person.
Includes: 250g beef (Kalbi Short Plate 100g + Misuji 100g + Harami 50g), rice, miso soup, salad, kimchi
Our Verdict on the Food
The meat quality is solid for the price point. It's not wagyu-level premium beef, but for $10-20 per person you're getting a fun, interactive dining experience with decent quality meat. The pre-marinated cuts make it easy — you don't have to worry about seasoning anything, just throw it on the grill and flip when ready.
The miso soup was hot and flavorful, and the unlimited rice refill during happy hours is clutch if you're hungry. The kimchi was standard — nothing special but it does the job as a palate cleanser between bites of meat.
Yakiniku Like Menu & Prices (Full Menu 2026)
Every set comes with rice, soup, salad, and kimchi.
Yakiniku Like Honolulu menu — 2026
Nate's Pick
Beef Lovers Set — $19.95
Best value if you want variety. Three different cuts of beef to try with rice, soup, salad & kimchi.
May 2026 Special
| Set | What's Included | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Kalbi Short Plate Set | Kalbi Short Plate & Chicken Teriyaki, salad, miso soup, kimchee, rice | $9.95 |
| Mega Set | Kalbi Short Plate (7oz) & Chicken Teriyaki (3.5oz), salad, miso soup, kimchee, rice | $15.95 |
Combo Sets
| Set | What's Included | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Premium Set | Kalbi Short Rib (100g), Harami (50g), Premium Gyutan (50g) | $23.95 |
| Kalbi Lovers Set | Kalbi Short Rib (100g) & Kalbi Short Plate (100g) | $17.95 |
| Best Duo Set | Kalbi Short Rib (100g) & Pork Belly (100g) | $19.95 |
| Double Like Set | Kalbi Short Plate (100g) & Chicken Teriyaki (100g) | $15.95 |
| Triple Like Set | Kalbi Short Plate (100g), Pork Belly (100g) & Chicken Teriyaki (100g) | $18.95 |
| Beef Lovers Set ← my order | Kalbi Short Plate (100g), Misuji (100g) & Harami (50g) | $19.95 |
Single Sets (with rice, soup, salad, kimchi)
| Meat | 100g | 200g |
|---|---|---|
| Kalbi Short Plate | $9.95 | $15.95 |
| Misuji (Top Blade) | $10.95 | $17.95 |
| Chicken Teriyaki | $8.95 | $13.95 |
| Pork Belly | $10.95 | $17.95 |
A La Carte Meats
| Meat | 50g | 100g |
|---|---|---|
| Kalbi Short Rib | $5.00 | $10.00 |
| Kalbi Short Plate | $3.50 | $7.00 |
| Harami (Skirt Steak) | $5.00 | $10.00 |
| Premium Gyutan (Beef Tongue) | $6.00 | $12.00 |
| Misuji (Top Blade) | $3.50 | $7.00 |
| Pork Belly | $4.00 | $8.00 |
| Chicken Teriyaki | $2.25 | $4.50 |
| Kurobuta Sausage (4pcs) | $5.00 | — |
Vegetables
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| Shishito Pepper | $3.00 |
| Shiitake Mushroom | $4.00 |
| Sweet Onion | $3.00 |
| Zucchini | $3.00 |
| Corn Cheese | $3.00 |
Sides
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| Rice | $3.00 |
| Miso Soup | $2.00 |
| Salad | $2.00 |
| Kimchi | $2.00 |
| Edamame | $3.00 |
| Crispy Seaweed | $2.00 |
| Ontama Egg | $2.00 |
| Negi Sauce | $1.50 |
| Garlic Butter | $3.00 |
| Cheese Fondue | $3.00 |
| Sesame Oil w/ Salt | $1.00 |
Drinks
| Drink | Price |
|---|---|
| Coca-Cola / Coke Zero / Sprite (12oz) | $3.00 |
| Diamond Head Strawberry Cream Soda (12oz) | $3.00 |
| Iced Green Tea / Iced Oolong Tea (12oz) | $4.00 |
| Sutter Home Cabernet / Chardonnay (6oz) | $7.00 |
| Sapporo (12oz bottle) | $5.00 |
| Suntory -196 Chuhai (Lemon/Grapefruit/Peach/Strawberry) | $6.00 |
Add-Ons
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| Make It A Set (add rice, salad, miso soup, kimchi) | $5.00 |
| Curry Topping | $2.00 |
| Curry Rice Set | $3.00 |
Yakiniku Like Happy Hour Deals
11 AM – 4 PM
Yakiniku & Ramen Set: $15.95 $20.95
Kalbi Short Plate (70g) + Tonkotsu Garlic Ramen + Rice, Soup, Salad, Kimchi
8:30 PM – Close
Yakiniku & Ramen Set: $15.95 $20.95
Kalbi Short Plate (70g) + Tonkotsu Garlic Ramen + Rice, Soup, Salad, Kimchi
Bonus: Unlimited rice refills during happy hour with any set purchase!
New Item: Curry Topping ($2) — add it to any set! Or get the Curry Rice Set for $3. Tonkotsu Garlic Ramen is also available à la carte for $5.
How to Order & Pay at Yakiniku Like
Yakiniku Like uses a completely digital ordering system powered by Toast. Here's how it works:
QR code ordering at Table 32 — scan with your phone to order and pay
When you sit down, you'll see a QR code card on your table with your table number (ours was Table 32).
Scan the QR code with your phone camera. It opens up the Toast ordering website — no app download required.
Browse the menu on your phone. You'll see featured items like the Beef Lovers Set, Yakiniku & Ramen Set, and the current monthly special right at the top. Scroll down for the full menu.
Add items to your cart and checkout. You pay right then and there on your phone, including tip. No waiting for a server to bring the check at the end.
Your food arrives within a few minutes. The staff brings everything to your table on trays.
This system is super efficient, especially if you're on a lunch break and need to eat quickly. No flagging down servers, no waiting for the bill. You're in control of the entire experience from your phone.
The open kitchen lets you watch staff prepare your order
Note: If your phone dies or you're not comfortable with digital ordering, you can ask the staff for help. They're friendly and will assist you.
Grilling Tips for First-Timers
Never grilled your own meat at a yakiniku restaurant before? Here's what you need to know:
1. Control the heat
If your grill flame gets too high or you see big flames shooting up, call the waiter immediately and they'll adjust the temperature with a dial under the table. Don't try to manage it yourself — that's what they're there for. We had to ask them to lower ours and it made a huge difference.
2. Emergency flame tip
If flames get out of control momentarily, a small squeeze of lemon juice from the condiment station can help extinguish them quickly. But honestly, it's better to just call the staff.
3. Find your sweet spot
Sit a bit back from the grill if you don't want heat radiating toward your face. The heat rises directly up, so if you're leaning forward you'll feel it.
4. Don't overcook
The meat slices are thin and cook fast — we're talking 30-60 seconds per side for most cuts. Watch for the edges to brown and flip. Overcooked yakiniku gets tough and chewy.
5. Use the tongs
They provide metal tongs for placing raw meat on the grill. Use these for raw meat only, then use your chopsticks or fork to pick up the cooked pieces. This prevents cross-contamination.
6. Grill in batches
Don't crowd the grill. Cook a few pieces at a time so you can manage them properly and eat them hot off the grill. That's the whole point of yakiniku — eating freshly grilled meat at peak temperature.
7. Try the sauces
Dip your cooked meat in the garlic soy sauce for extra flavor, or try it plain with just a sprinkle of salt to taste the natural beef flavor.
Good to Know Before You Go
Monthly Specials
Yakiniku Like runs a new special every month from the 1st through the last day. We update this page monthly — bookmark it to always have the latest deal.
Chopsticks
They don't have chopstick trainers, so if you're not comfortable using chopsticks, just ask for a fork.
Wi-Fi
Free Wi-Fi is available for customers. You'll need it anyway to use the QR code ordering system.
Solo-friendly
This is probably the most solo-friendly BBQ restaurant in Honolulu. The entire concept is built around individual diners.
Wait times
We walked in around 1:30 PM on a weekday and got seated immediately. Expect longer waits during peak dinner hours (6-8 PM) and weekends.
Reservations
They don't accept reservations. It's first-come, first-served only.
Kids
The restaurant can accommodate families, but keep in mind there are open flames at every table. Young children should be supervised closely.
Vegetarian options
Unfortunately, Yakiniku Like is very meat-focused. Vegetarians can order vegetable sides but there's no dedicated vegetarian set.
Yakiniku Like Hawaii FAQ
Is Yakiniku Like good for solo dining?
Yes, absolutely. Yakiniku Like is specifically designed for solo diners with individual grills at each seat. You won't feel out of place eating alone — in fact, most of the seating is counter-style for individuals. This is one of the best solo dining experiences in Honolulu.
Do I need reservations at Yakiniku Like Hawaii?
No, Yakiniku Like Honolulu doesn't accept reservations. It's first-come, first-served only. We walked in on a weekday afternoon and got seated immediately.
What's the difference between yakiniku and Korean BBQ?
Yakiniku is the Japanese version of tabletop grilling. The main differences: yakiniku uses thinner meat slices that cook faster, the marinades tend to be lighter (often just tare sauce), and the side dishes are Japanese-style (miso soup, rice) rather than Korean banchan. The cooking style emphasizes the natural flavor of the meat.
Is there free parking at Yakiniku Like Honolulu?
Yes, there's a free customer parking lot directly in front of the restaurant at 1108 Ke'eaumoku Street. Street parking on Ke'eaumoku Street is also free.
What are Yakiniku Like's happy hour times?
Happy hour runs from 11 AM to 4 PM and 8:30 PM until close. During happy hour, you get the Yakiniku & Ramen Set for $15.95 (regular price $20.95) and unlimited rice refills with any set purchase.
Can I get unlimited rice at Yakiniku Like?
Yes, unlimited rice refills are available during happy hour times: 11 AM – 4 PM and 8:30 PM until close. Just ask your server for more rice.
How much does Yakiniku Like cost?
Most people spend $10-20 per person at Yakiniku Like Hawaii. They run a new monthly special every month — the May 2026 Special starts at just $9.95 for a Kalbi Short Plate & Chicken Teriyaki set. The most expensive is the Premium Set at $23.95. A la carte meats range from $2.25 to $12.00 depending on cut and portion size.
Is Yakiniku Like a chain restaurant?
Yes, Yakiniku Like is a Japanese chain that originated in Tokyo. They have locations across Japan and have expanded internationally. The Honolulu location on Ke'eaumoku Street is their Hawaii outpost.
What's the best thing to order at Yakiniku Like?
The current May 2026 Special at $9.95 is great value — you get Kalbi Short Plate & Chicken Teriyaki with salad, miso soup, kimchee, and rice. For bigger appetites, the Mega Set at $15.95 gives you Kalbi Short Plate (7oz) & Chicken Teriyaki (3.5oz). Otherwise, the Beef Lovers Set ($19.95) gives you three different cuts to try. For happy hour, get the Yakiniku & Ramen Set at $15.95.
Do they have beer and alcohol at Yakiniku Like Hawaii?
Yes. Yakiniku Like serves Sapporo beer ($5.00), Sutter Home wine ($7.00), and Suntory -196 chuhai cocktails ($6.00) in various flavors like lemon, grapefruit, peach, and strawberry.
Is Yakiniku Like kid-friendly?
Yakiniku Like can accommodate families, but be aware there are open flames at every table. Children need to be supervised carefully around the hot grills.
Does Yakiniku Like have vegetarian options?
Yakiniku Like is very meat-focused. Vegetarians can order vegetable sides like shishito peppers, shiitake mushrooms, zucchini, and corn cheese, but there's no dedicated vegetarian set or protein alternative.
Does Yakiniku Like have monthly specials?
Yes! Yakiniku Like runs a brand-new special every month. The special is available from the 1st through the last day of each month. Check this page for the latest monthly special — we update it every month.
Final Verdict
Yakiniku Like is a solid choice for a casual, affordable Japanese BBQ experience in Honolulu. If you've been curious about yakiniku but intimidated by traditional Japanese BBQ restaurants or didn't want to commit to an expensive AYCE (all-you-can-eat) Korean BBQ meal, this is the perfect entry point.
What I Loved
- • Solo-friendly setup — no awkwardness
- • QR code ordering is efficient and modern
- • Reasonable prices (monthly specials from $9.95)
- • Fun, Instagram-worthy interior
- • Free parking
- • New monthly specials keep it fresh
What Could Be Better
- • Heat from the grill can be intense
- • Meat quality is good but not exceptional
- • No vegetarian options
Who Should Go
Solo diners looking for an interactive meal, couples on casual dates, anyone curious about yakiniku, Japanese food lovers, and budget-conscious foodies who want BBQ without the $40+ AYCE price tag.
Who Should Skip
Large groups (the setup isn't ideal for parties), vegetarians, people who don't want to cook their own food, or anyone looking for a premium fine-dining experience.
The Beef Lovers Set at $19.95 gives you good variety with three cuts, and the May Special at $9.95 is solid value with Kalbi Short Plate & Chicken Teriyaki. The QR code ordering makes everything quick and easy, and the staff is attentive if you need help with the grill.
Worth the visit? Yes, especially during happy hour when you get unlimited rice refills and discounted combo sets.
Great value, fun experience, perfect for solo diners. Just manage your expectations on meat quality and watch out for the grill heat.
See it on the food map →Korean BBQ Honolulu vs Yakiniku Like: Which Is Better?
If you're searching for Korean BBQ in Honolulu, Korean barbecue Honolulu, or best Korean BBQ Honolulu, you've probably seen options like Gen Ala Moana, Gyu-Kaku Hawaii, or traditional Korean BBQ restaurants. Here's how Yakiniku Like compares:
| Feature | Yakiniku Like | Korean BBQ (AYCE) |
|---|---|---|
| Price per person | $9.95 – $23.95 | $35 – $50+ |
| Solo-friendly? | ✓ Designed for it | ✗ Awkward alone |
| Wait time | Usually none | 30-60+ min weekends |
| Time to eat | 20-30 min | 60-90 min |
| Reservations | Not needed | Highly recommended |
| Meat style | Thin slices, light marinade | Thick cuts, heavy marinade |
| Side dishes | Rice, miso soup, salad, kimchi | Banchan (many small dishes) |
Yakiniku Like vs Gen Ala Moana
Gen Korean BBQ Ala Moana is the most popular Korean BBQ in Honolulu. They offer AYCE for around $35-45 per person with unlimited banchan. Great for groups, but expect 45-60 minute waits on weekends and you'll need reservations.
Choose Yakiniku Like if: You're solo, on a lunch break, want to spend under $20, or hate waiting.
Yakiniku Like vs Gyu-Kaku Hawaii
Gyu-Kaku is Japanese BBQ (not Korean), with locations in Waikiki and Kapiolani. They're pricier than Yakiniku Like ($20-40/person) and designed for groups. Good happy hour deals but still more expensive than Yakiniku Like.
Choose Yakiniku Like if: You want Japanese yakiniku but faster, cheaper, and more solo-friendly.
Yakiniku Like vs Yakiniku Seoul Honolulu
Yakiniku Seoul is another popular option that blends Japanese and Korean BBQ styles. They offer AYCE options and are great for groups. Similar price point to Gen.
Choose Yakiniku Like if: You want à la carte pricing, solo seating, and quick service.
The Bottom Line: Korean BBQ vs Yakiniku Like
Korean BBQ in Honolulu is best for: Groups of 4+, special occasions, unlimited meat lovers, people who want the full banchan experience.
Yakiniku Like is best for: Solo diners, quick lunches, budget-conscious eaters, couples, anyone who wants BBQ without the $40+ price tag and hour-long wait.
More Honolulu Restaurant Reviews
Looking for more Japanese food in Hawaii? Check out these other reviews:
Prices and hours as of May 2026. Monthly specials change on the 1st of each month. Check with the restaurant for current information.
Summary
Yakiniku Like Hawaii on Ke'eaumoku Street is the best spot for solo Japanese BBQ dining in Honolulu. With affordable prices ($9.95-$23.95), monthly specials that change every month, a full yakiniku menu, free parking, and a fun grill-your-own-meat experience, it's a must-try for anyone visiting Oahu who loves Japanese food or wants an alternative to Korean BBQ.
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