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Welcome to Donnie's Barbecue Smokehouse Soul Food Express

Welcome to Donnie's Barbecue Smokehouse Soul Food Express, a culinary gem nestled in Waipahu, Hawaii. Our story blends Southern BBQ traditions with a unique island twist, offering a vibrant menu that celebrates authentic soul food. Each dish is crafted with love, from our juicy St. Louis-style ribs to the tender pulled pork sandwich, served with hearty sides and cornbread. Customers rave about the comforting flavors reminiscent of home, highlighting our fried catfish, collard greens, and rich gumbo as standouts. At Donnie's, every bite is a journey, creating memorable dining experiences that welcome you back time after time. Join us and savor the soul!

Donnie's Barbecue Smokehouse Soul Food Express: Reviews & Ratings

Blues Towing
Blues Towing

DELICIOUS! I ate a little bit of everything and smiled the whole time. Even the leftovers tasted good the next day. That’s how you know it’s good.

Carol Perone
Carol Perone

Loved it! My husband and I have been searching for authentic southern BBQ since moving to the island last year. We finally found Donnie's when we saw their truck at a food festival in Waikiki. Not only is the first and only southern BBQ we've found, but it was delicious. We also went to their restaurant in Waipahu. The menu is extensive and includes the meats and sides that are only found in southern BBQ: corn bread, fried okra, collards, etc. I ordered the fried catfish, and my husband had the brisket. Both were outstanding. I would definitely recommend Donnie's, and it's well worth the ride to Waipahu, even if you're coming from Honolulu!

Luna Magic
Luna Magic

Catfish bussin! Greens bussin! Yams bussin! Mac and cheese bussin! Ribs and tips bussin! Jerk chicken plate bussin!! Everything I ate here gave what it was supposed to give baby!! Hands down the best soul food on the island and we can fight about cause I said what I said

Peace
Peace

How do I describe this place.... soul food yummy. I couldn't decide on what I wanted. So I got catfish, ribs, pulled pork, collard greens mac and cheese, shrimp grits gumbo oh lordt the money I spent but the memories thay camer back. My grandma's gumbo was in that bowl. I had to catch myself from crying. Everything was so good. I will be back.

Simone Hopkins
Simone Hopkins

This is by far the best soulfood restaurant I've had on this island. The food is just about addicting and reminds me of back home. You take one bite, and before you know it, you eaten your whole plate. The owner and the worker are extremely sweet, patient, and friendly. They make you feel welcomed from the moment you enter until you leave. ***Side note that if you get a sweet tea in a Mason Jar and follow them on Instagram, you'll see they have deals on the jars.

D Renee Kamemoto
D Renee Kamemoto

Food was terrific, The wait was long but expected from earlier reviews and people ordering before me. Staff were wonderfully friendly. We'll be going again.

Stephanie W
Stephanie W

Firstly, I was hesitated to come because I seen a few negitive reviews. Didn't sound like somewhere I would like. I don't write reviews ever on this account but I NEEDED TO But I will be honest this was some of the best soul food I've had in a long time. Greens spicy and on point with that turkey meat. Mac and cheese was good. Catfish was good not muddy tasting. My son enjoyed it had fun watching a kid's movie. They realized he was bored because his tablet died so they put on a movie for him. WHAT PLACE DOES THAT. The staff is super friendly. It gives you momma and grandmama cooking vibes and familt that ive desperately needed. I will be back for the shrimp and grits (they gave me a sample).

Zackeria Knighton
Zackeria Knighton

I’m new to the island and had a taste for some BBQ. The food was sooo good. I was a bit nervous because all of the soul food I’ve tried so far did not taste good but Donnie’s was great! The brisket is my favorite meat and the dirty rice was on point! If you’re looking for some good BBQ this is your place. The fact they are black owned is a plus!

Location

Welcome to **Donnie's Barbecue Smokehouse Soul Food Express**, the gem of Waipahu, HI, where southern BBQ meets heartfelt soul food. Nestled at 94-226 Leoku St Unit #2, Waipahu, HI 96797, this eatery specializes in bringing the authentic, smoky flavors of the South to the Hawaiian islands. With a robust selection of mouthwatering entrees and a reputation for quality, you'll find yourself reminiscing about each bite long after your visit.

When you step into Donnie's, prepare yourself for a tantalizing array of offerings, each crafted with care and attention to detail. Here are some of the standout dishes:

  • Pulled Pork Sandwich: Tender, slow-smoked pulled pork slathered in sweet and tangy BBQ sauce, served with your choice of two sides and a slab of cornbread for just $20.99.
  • Smoked Pork Belly: A rich and flavorful delight, served with BBQ sauce, two sides, and cornbread, all for $20.99.
  • 1/4 Rack of Ribs: Indulge in juicy St. Louis-style ribs, accompanied by two sides and cornbread for only $20.99.
  • Rib Tips: These delectable bites come with two sides and cornbread for $20.99, perfect for sharing or savoring all to yourself.

Donnie's is not just about the food; it's about the experience. Customers rave about the taste, with praises like "delicious" and "bussin" echoing throughout reviews. One enthusiastic patron, Blues Towing, described their meal as an unforgettable journey: "I ate a little bit of everything and smiled the whole time." This sentiment is echoed by Carol Perone, who found the search for authentic southern BBQ worthwhile after discovering Donnie's during a food festival in Waikiki. Lovers of classic southern dishes will appreciate the extensive menu, featuring everything from mouthwatering brisket to fried catfish, each prepared to perfection.

The warmth and hospitality at Donnie's are equally notable. Simone Hopkins emphasized the genuine care shown by the staff, stating, "They make you feel welcomed from the moment you enter until you leave." This commitment to customer service complements the flavors, creating a cozy atmosphere that invites you to linger over your meal.

In a world where food transcends mere sustenance, Donnie's Barbecue Smokehouse Soul Food Express offers a taste of home, infused with love, history, and culture. Whether you're a local or just visiting, a trip to Donnie's is a culinary pilgrimage worth making. Let the soulful dishes whisk you away to the heart of the South, proving that no matter where you are, great food can always feel like home.

For inquiries or to place an order, reach out to them at +1 808-888-2278.