A few months ago, this Hawaiian BBQ was brought to my attention by Jack & Terry R., two readers of this blog. So one day a few weeks ago I had the chance to drop by Hawaiian Express BBQ.
This Hawaiian BBQ is located in the Food Court of Plaza Bonita Shopping Center in National City. I’m sure you’ll find it; just look for the bright "neon". The menu contains two interesting "characteristics". First, there are no "mini" plates, they have been replaced by "Medium"($4.49-4.99) plates. Call it a marketing move I guess. Secondly, there are a few items on the menu that are somewhat unique. A Fries, Cheese, and BBQ plate(fries, cheese, and BBQ chicken???) and Walnut Shrimp stand out.
Jack and Terry recommended the BBQ short ribs here, so I definitely had to give those a try. I got a "medium" BBQ Short Rib plate($4.49):
This was a pretty large mini…ooops, I mean "medium" plate. It included one scoop of rice, a useless bland egg roll, and the absolute worst macaroni salad I’ve ever had. Note to plate lunch makers; macaroni salad has mayo in it! But the ribs made up for the salad, they were thicker and alot more tender then the usual Hawaiian BBQ ribs. Usually at L&L, the ribs are cut very thin and are tough as a rubber slipper, with pieces of inedible gristle. These were very soft and tender. The marinade could probably be flavored better, these were a bit on the bland side, but overall were pretty good.
I also ordered a Medium Chicken Katsu($4.49):
The first thing I noticed when I opened this, was the lack of any "katsu sauce". Instead there was some liquid poured over the chicken. The fairly large portion of chicken was cooked well, but the semi-sweet sour sauce poured over the katsu made the pieces soggy, and really did not taste very good.
If I’m in the area, I’d try Hawaiian Express BBQ again. I’d lose the salad and egg rolls, and add another scoop of rice if I can. The service is typical food court, manned by indifferent students (unless you’re their friends, they get great attentive service!), but is adequate. Prices of "Large" plates range from $5.99-$7.99, portions are large, and prices are pretty good.
Hawaiian Express BBQ
3030 Plaza Bonita Rd (In the Plaza Bonita Food Court)
National City, CA 91950
Thanks for the recommendation Jack & Terry!