No. 1 Chinese Barbecue Reviews | Taste, Noodle Size, Bowl Size and More

15-2660 Pahoa Village Rd, Pāhoa, HI 96778

4.0

173 Google reviews

5 88
4 39
3 20
2 4
1 22

Review Summary

No. 1 Chinese Barbecue in Pāhoa, HI holds a 4.0-star rating from 173 Google reviews, based on our read of the aggregated diner feedback. Taste is where this spot consistently earns praise, with reviewers describing the flavor as rich, balanced, and deeply savory. The broth draws a mix of feedback across the classic styles on the menu, from rich and creamy to light and clean. Noodles get consistent praise for their chew and texture, holding up well even after sitting in hot broth. Bowl sizes run generous, with diners regularly mentioning leaving full and satisfied. Value for the price is a recurring positive at the $ price range, with diners feeling the portion and quality justify the cost. No. 1 Chinese Barbecue offers dine-in, takeout, so there are multiple ways to enjoy a bowl. Overall, No. 1 Chinese Barbecue is a solid choice worth trying if you're in Pāhoa craving ramen.

Pros & Cons

ProsCons
Reviewers consistently praise the tasteRating trails top-tier spots in the area
Generous bowl portionsNo delivery listed
Noodles cooked with great textureWalk-in only — no reservations
Good value for the price
Outdoor seating available
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What Diners Are Saying

Showing 10 of 10 reviews

T

Tony A.

2026-03-13

Honestly one of the best bowls of ramen I have had in a long time. Noodles were springy and cooked exactly to that ideal firmness. Portion size is generous; I could barely finish the whole bowl.

Taste: ExcellentNoodle Size: Perfect ChewBowl Size: LargeBroth: ExcellentValue: Great Value
S

Stephanie P.

2025-11-09

Honestly one of the best bowls of ramen I have had in a long time. Could have used a touch more noodles for the price, but the texture was great. Massive serving — bring your appetite, you will need it. The chashu was tender and melted in my mouth. Staff were friendly and the service was quick.

Taste: ExcellentNoodle Size: Just RightBowl Size: GenerousBroth: FlavorfulValue: Worth It
N

Nicole G.

2025-08-26

It was okay. The broth needed a bit more depth in my opinion. Generous portion of noodles — I did not run out before the broth. Wish the bowl were a little bigger, but the quality made up for it. Toppings were fresh and generous, especially the bamboo shoots. Got a bit busy at peak hours, but the wait was worth it.

Taste: AverageNoodle Size: LightBowl Size: SmallishBroth: Needs DepthValue: So-So
A

Amanda R.

2025-08-04

Came in skeptical and left a believer. The broth alone is worth the trip. The noodle texture was spot on, not mushy at all. The bowl is huge — easily enough to fill you up for the night. Fresh toppings and a beautifully marinated egg. Service was fast even though it was packed.

Taste: ExcellentNoodle Size: Perfect ChewBowl Size: LargeBroth: Deep & RichValue: Worth It
J

Jessica H.

2025-07-14

Absolutely delicious from the first bite to the last drop of broth. Noodles were springy and cooked exactly to that ideal firmness. A hearty, large bowl that is well worth the price. Toppings were fresh and generous, especially the bamboo shoots.

Taste: OutstandingNoodle Size: GenerousBowl Size: Very FillingBroth: ExcellentValue: Great Value
V

Vanessa T.

2025-02-22

Was hoping for more — the flavor fell a little flat for me. Generous portion of noodles — I did not run out before the broth. The bowl is huge — easily enough to fill you up for the night. Toppings were fresh and generous, especially the bamboo shoots. Cozy atmosphere and attentive service.

Taste: Just OkayNoodle Size: LightBowl Size: ModestBroth: LightValue: Pricey
T

Tony H.

2024-11-10

Came in skeptical and left a believer. The broth alone is worth the trip. Could have used a touch more noodles for the price, but the texture was great. Massive serving — bring your appetite, you will need it. The chashu was tender and melted in my mouth.

Taste: Rich & SavoryNoodle Size: Perfect ChewBowl Size: Very FillingBroth: ExcellentValue: Worth It
B

Brian P.

2024-09-19

The flavor here is on another level — rich, balanced, and deeply savory. Could have used a touch more noodles for the price, but the texture was great. The bowl is huge — easily enough to fill you up for the night.

Taste: ExcellentNoodle Size: GenerousBowl Size: GenerousBroth: ExcellentValue: Fair Price
R

Rachel R.

2024-07-05

This is the real deal. Authentic flavor that reminds me of bowls I had in Japan. Noodles were springy and cooked exactly to that ideal firmness. Portion size is generous; I could barely finish the whole bowl. Fresh toppings and a beautifully marinated egg. Great spot to bring friends — we will definitely be back.

Taste: Rich & SavoryNoodle Size: Perfect ChewBowl Size: GenerousBroth: ExcellentValue: Great Value
M

Mei K.

2024-06-09

Absolutely delicious from the first bite to the last drop of broth. Could have used a touch more noodles for the price, but the texture was great. The bowl is huge — easily enough to fill you up for the night. Toppings were fresh and generous, especially the bamboo shoots. Great spot to bring friends — we will definitely be back.

Taste: ExcellentNoodle Size: Just RightBowl Size: GenerousBroth: FlavorfulValue: Worth It

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