(Photo courtesy of L&L Hawaiian Barbecue)

Aloha! 3 Hawaiian Barbecue Chains New to Tucson in 2024


March 6, 2024
By Matt Sterner

Hawaiian barbecue joints are making quite the splash here in Tucson.

So far in 2024, there are three to keep an eye on — two of them have already opened and one concept is expected to open sometime this year.

Check out our guide if you’re wondering where to find every Hawaiian-inspired restaurant here in the desert. However, keep scrolling to check out the newest additions here in Tucson.

203 S. Wilmot Rd. (opened in February 2024)

a plate of food and a cup of coffee
Hawaiian Bros Island Grill (Photo by Hannah Hernandez)

The most recent opening is Hawaiian Bros Island Grill at 203 S. Wilmot Rd. Brothers Tyler and Cameron McNie opened its first location in Belton, Missouri in 2018. The McNies originally come from the West Coast, but some Midwest friends from Kansas City inspired them to bring a version of their family’s Hawaiian grill restaurant here.

“The restaurant features a striking design and island vibe with a kitchen void of freezers, fryers, and microwaves,” the franchise owners said about the spot in Tucson. “The concept offers island-inspired comfort in the form of food Hawaiian plate lunches as well as sides.”

Learn more about their menu.

4210 N. First Ave. (opened in January 2024)

(Photo courtesy of L&L Hawaiian Barbecue)

The Honolulu-based restaurant chain opened its first Tucson location in January of this year, making it the third location overall in Arizona.

The restaurant is located at 4210 N. First Ave. and serves similar dishes found at Hawaiian Bros — plate lunches. The restaurant is quickly becoming a favorite on that side of town with menu items like barbecue meats, rice plates, and Spam Musubi.

Learn more about their menu.

6610 E. Grant Rd. (coming soon)

(Photo courtesy of Ono Hawaiian BBQ)

This concept has yet to open but they’ve already leased the former Boston Market at 6610 E. Grant Rd. — that’s near the corner of Grant Road and Tanque Verde Road where the T. Rex is hanging out in front of McDonald’s.

“Founded in 2002, Ono Hawaiian BBQ is a family-owned fast casual restaurant known for its authentic Hawaiian Plate Lunches and other island specialties. Ono Hawaiian uses the freshest ingredients, prepared from scratch daily in each restaurant and grilled fresh to order.”

The grand opening date has yet to be released so stay tuned.

Learn more about their menu.

As mentioned earlier in this article, check out our interactive guide to every Hawaiian-themed restaurant concept in Tucson.

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