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    Ofa's Island BBQ

    4.4 (96 reviews)
    Closed 11:00 am - 1:00 pm
    Updated a few days ago

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    Sherman T.

    Farmers markets aren't just about high quality produce and niche suppliers nowadays - they're now home to delicious food caterers keeping bellies happy as they peruse the locally sourced and crafted products. Ofa's Island BBQ, a family run business consisting of Hawaii natives, takes the spotlight in any of the markets they attend (three within the east bay - San Ramon, Livermore, and Dublin). Their active smokers start up early and begin cooking up the meats fresh for the day to satisfy all the patrons yet to come and the pre-bulk orders. You can text or call ahead to place orders for the meals as well as bulk purchase just the meats if you're looking to host your own luau. Due to their popularity, the order can take 15-20 minutes to prepare if you are ordering at the market so if you're not a fan of waiting, consider preordering. At this particular visit, the weather was great for a cook out and we made a visit to Ofa's and ordered an island special to share. Their combo plates all come with some protein, rice, and salad and you can make substitutions for the proteins if you prefer certain kinds. We ended up getting the chicken leg and pork combo and it was enough to share between two people. It's a bit pricey and if you're hungry, you may need to order one per person but if you're planning to snack around the market and venture into the shopping center, sharing should be fine. Or order two combos to share so you can try all the meats! The chicken was grilled well yet moist in the center. The char and seasoning gave strong flavors that paired well with the rice. The pork was moist and shredded enough to soak up the Sweet Baby Ray's barbecue sauce they provide. The tomato cucumber salad was refreshing. The staff were friendly and working hard to fulfill all the orders as quick as possible. The smokers were running nonstop and were churning out the goodies. Overall, I was very pleased with our experience with Ofa's Island BBQ. They had a good selection of meats and they were prepared well. The food leaves you wanting more but the prices are a bit prohibitive for that, although it's comparative to other meals at markets and fairs. If you happen to be at the markets or need another reason to go, Ofa's will bring that island taste and feel to you!

    Today's special. Plate with grilled pork
    Hanna L.

    Finally, I got to try this food truck that always spills out BBQ smell at the farmers market. We got the today special plate that comes with stir-fried grass noodles, rice, and grilled pork because this menu doesn't always come. Took about 5-10 min to get our food. The noodles and rice were very soft and easily digested (nothing to really chew). The pork has a very good smoked flavor, and the portion size was generous. We shared one plate with two persons, which was good for lunch. It's definitely not a healthier option considering the near absence of veggies and high carb/fat contents, but once in a while, it gives you that guilty pleasure. :-) (I hope the workers there wear a protective mask. It's very smokey nearby, and keep inhaling those vapors might not be good)

    Island combo with ribs and chicken
    Kaitlyn M.

    Twice now I've had their BBQ chicken and rice at the Livermore Sunday Farmer's Market, and both times I've been blown away with how good their food is. Great grilled char flavor, perfectly cooked and moist, and delicious sauce. I love the island combo and that it comes with the cucumber tomato salad which is a nice counterpoint. Their new pork belly special is even more amazing. The savory veggie noodles are super satisfying, and the crispy but still moist pork belly is so good in that sauce. Next time I'm getting the Island combo with double chicken and the pork belly again. I'm going back for more! Huge portions for great prices, all grilled fresh right in front of you. There's usually a 5-20 minute wait depending on how busy they are, but totally worth it.

    Ribs
    Robert P.

    This is by far the best Island BBQ on the mainland and yes they get busy so with any business at all local markets that has long lines just ask the wait time and be patient it is worth the wait. Even in this economy with rising prices Peni and Sherry have kept the prices about the same in the 10+ years that I've known the family. I can't pin point my favorite of their food so I'd say try them all. Portions are large and I always order extra of Sherry's cucumber salad. I can't say enough about the food or the family. Take time and say hi, they're always very personable. Tell the Big Rob sent you

    Andrew S.

    My friend and I needed to grab a bite to eat before heading to sacramento. I followed my nose and came to this food stand at the farmer's market. My nose doesn't lie and neither does this food. My friend and I both got the marinated chicken and its so soft and tender that I still crave it. My friend was glad my nose found the way. Food came out surprisingly fast despite it being around lunch time. Parking in the Bishop Ranch parking garage.

    2/3/2024 Island special - $25 + card fees. Chicken was really flavorful and tender. Pork was nice and juicy
    Juana E.

    Visited Ofa's Island BBQ at the San Ramon farmers market on Saturday morning. I ordered around 12:30pm (the farmers market closes at 1pm) and they still had a good amount of food. The wait wasn't long at all which was a plus. The Island Special included kalua pork, grilled chicken and rice with a side of cucumber-tomato salad. The chicken was very tender and flavorful. The pork was nice and juicy. Would definitely support them again!

    Truck schedule
    Kari C.

    Take out order from the food truck at San Ramon farmers market. See photo for schedule. Got there a little bit past 10 AM Saturday and it was already pretty crowded at City Center. I parked in the structure on the third floor. Good thing I got there early, since a line rapidly formed behind me of at least 10 people. Ordering is very simple and the lady working there was extremely friendly. They take credit cards so that is a plus. Food was ready in about 3 to 5 minutes. They wore masks and use gloves, and most people socially distanced in line. We ordered the big island special ($25) which included three types of barbecue meats, short grain rice, and a cucumber salad. I was concerned that this wouldn't be enough food, however, the box was extremely dense and, yeah, my wimpy arm hurt from holding it! We also got an extra side of cucumber salad for $3. BBQ chicken - we got a chicken leg quarter which consisted of a thigh and a drumstick. The marinade and glaze were teriyaki in nature, salty with soy notes, and a tiny bit of sweetness. The edges seemed quite blackened. This could've been from the sugar in the glaze, but DH complained that some parts that were inedible. Overall, the burnt bits were a small portion, and we were still quite happy with the flavor of the chicken. BBQ ribs - there was a lot of meat on the ribs. Glaze was similar to the chicken one. There was one part of the rib that was just a solid chunk of meat, not a whole lot of fat there, and it seemed kind of tough and dried out. The part close to the bone had more fat and was not as burnt and more delicious. Kalua Pork - pretty good, but very mild smoky flavor. I think this would have mass appeal. The flavor profile and texture matches Kalua pork in my memory. Not terribly salty either. Mmmmmmm! Rice is a short grain that has a medium amount of stickiness. Really pairs well with the meats. They did a good job cooking it. Cucumber salad has a tangy Italian like dressing with a touch of mint. We really like the cucumber salad and it was a nice refreshing counterpoint to the heaviness of the meat. We also picked up some heirloom tomatoes at the farmers market for a simple tomato salad, which was perfect to add to the meal. Overall, a solid place to satisfy those Island barbecue cravings. Prices may be slightly higher than usual, because it's San Ramon, and it's a food truck. If you're a total barbecue snob, I would not go out of your way to try this truck. But for the rest of us, this place is perfectly fine!

    BBQ plate with chicken , pulled Kailua pork and ribs at the San Ramon farmers market.
    George F.

    I've seen this Yelp listing for Ofa's Island BBQ and finally found it at the San Ramon Farmers market at the City Center. It's a BBQ food stand, cooking some Island flavor BBQ Chicken, shredded Kalua Pork, and Pork ribs. The offerings are $16 for the Kalua Pork and Chicken with rice and a small cucumber salad. For $20 you get two pork ribs with the BBQ plate. Pros With the exception of the Kalua Pork, the Chicken and Ribs are barbecued on site with the wood smoke waffling through out the Farmers Market. BBQ Chicken was excellent with a soy umami flavor. Shredded Kalua good smoky flavor. Cons The wait is super long, 40 minutes from ordering to getting the food. Small portions on the Kalua Pork and cucumber salad. Lot's of rice though. Skip the pork ribs. Tough, dry, and small Lots of gristle. minus star. Reminds me of a home BBQ, not a commercial food stand. The chicken was good but the rest of the operation is not ready to serve any volume of customers. The process from ordering, to the portion size, to the service is lacking.

    The truck at San Ramon Farmer's market

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    Food is amazing. They have such a beautiful personality, and their food doesn't disappoint. Can't wait for summer cause I think they cater

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    Best Hawaiian catering food around! We had them cater my wedding and the food was amazing!! Highly recommend!!

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    Page 1 of 3

    Ask the Community - Ofa's Island BBQ

    Do you have any gluten free items?

    Hi, Yes we do offer gluten free items. Our Kalua Pork Rice Bowls and cucumber tomato salad are all… 

    Do you cater Holiday parties?

    Hi Katherine, Yes, we cater for holiday parties. For all catering and event inquires, please email… 

    Looking for catering for my wife's upscale Aloha themed birthday party at our home in Alamo? Also interested in authentic Hawaiian musicians and a authentic Hula Dancer. 30 guests on 4/30/2022

    Hi Marc, For future catering and event inquires, please email us at:… 

    Hello- are you available to cater a graduation event on Dec 18 12-3pm for party of 80? Please provide details and cost? Thanks

    Hi Kim, Here's our menu. Please pick which items you would like a quote for.… 

    Do you cook the pork next to the chicken? And, do you use the same utensils when cooking the pork and chicken? Crazy questions, but I'm Muslim and don't eat pork. Thanks?

    Hi, We cook our pork on a separate grill from the chicken and use different utensils for each as… 

    I cannot find the location . Can anyone provide me the location and time and date if they open ? Thank you !

    They are in San Ramon every Saturday's from 11-1pm @ the LOT farmers market parking area

    Don’t See Your Question? Ask Away!

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    Kawana Ramen And Hawaiian BBQ

    4.1(69 reviews)
    2.7 mi

    The restaurant is quaint & very clean , simply decorated Asian & Hawaiian motif …read more The lady /owner sat us & she was very welcoming & friendly . She took our order & it came out pretty fast . Everything was delicious & we enjoyed all we ordered . My husband was surprised he ordered a combination plate bbq beef & shrimp & the quality & quantity was very good . A bit more than he expected but he enjoyed. We will be back again . It was just nice to sit & eat a meal quietly w/o the hustle & bustle of a fast food restaurant. Mom & Pop it was simply a nice dining experience.

    I read about Kawana awhile ago and had been meaning to drop in and try some dishes. I'm a big plate…read morelunch fan. I went to visit my son and I remembered that the restaurant was less than 5 minutes from his house. I wasn't very hungry but my wife wanted me to pick-up lunch for her. She doesn't eat much so she picked a kids meal with Chicken Katsu and a Spam Musubi with veggies. My wife said it was the perfect serving size for her. I grabbed an order of gyoza as a snack. I don't know if they make the gyoza but it was good, thin wrapper, tasty filling and pan fried so the bottom was a golden brown and the wrapper was tender. I tried some of the Chicken Katsu. I'm not a sauce guy so I need the katsu to have flavor which this one had good flavor. Since I ordered it to go the Katsu wasn't crunchy when I got home but could have been if I ate it at the restaurant. My wife enjoyed her meal. We will visit again to try some of the other dishes and try getting at the restaurant. It is a family run business, service is quick and efficient, restaurant is clean, good for families, good food and the Owners are nice.

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    Kawana Ramen And Hawaiian BBQ - Inside

    Inside

    Kawana Ramen And Hawaiian BBQ - Spam Musubi

    Spam Musubi

    Kawana Ramen And Hawaiian BBQ - Inside

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    Inside

    Sauced BBQ & Spirits

    Sauced BBQ & Spirits

    3.7(1.5k reviews)
    11.0 mi
    $$

    Came here to celebrate a fellow Soror's bday. We were like over 10 ppl deep and they accommodated…read moreus 100%. I can't remember our servers name, but she was so freaking amazing. She handled us flawlessly and never missed a beat. The wings are so good and they said the fried picked were delicious. I had the watermelon strawberry lemonade (Double) and it was so refreshing and it definitely hit the mark. For food, I was so indecisive because i did not want anything too heavy. I wound up getting the sliders (2 brisket and 1 tri tip) and a side salad. They were so yummy to my tummy. The flavor was great and I added the honey BBQ (All BBQ sauces are on the table already). That set it off just right. They're prices are moderate. I mean it is BBQ. Also, my food came out hot. Unfortunately, I have to take a star off because one of my Soror's food had to be reheated and she was not very happy about that. However...I am to going to go back and try it again.

    Huge space with both high tops and regular tables, so lots of seating…read more We got the 3 meat combo to share: brisket burnt ends, pork belly burnt ends, and pulled pork. The combo came with 2 sides and we chose mac and cheese and waffle fries with house rub. We started with the cauliflower bites, sticky flavor with comeback sauce. All the meats had good flavor. The pork had a slight sourness that was nice. Most of it was drier than I'd like though. Only the pork belly was actually flavorful, juicy, and tender. Mac and cheese and fries were both fine but won't be writing home about this. Cauliflower was pretty good, could be crunchier with more breading. The table had 4 different BBQ sauces. I really liked the tin roof non spicy. It was nice to have that many options. The staff were nice but maybe a little too attentive. They cleared our water cups before we were ready to go.

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    Sauced BBQ & Spirits - Game area

    Game area

    Sauced BBQ & Spirits - Rednexican Nachos with Pork, Yum.

    Rednexican Nachos with Pork, Yum.

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    Sauced BBQ & Spirits - Livermore - Brisket and Pork Belly Burnt Ends

    Sauced BBQ & Spirits - Livermore

    3.8(2.8k reviews)
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    Weeknight. After a high school game. Glad they were still open late to accommodate us and gave us…read moreservice with a smile. Nice western feeling inside. Lots of tables for big parties, small parties, and tall tables at the bar. Food arrived pretty timely. Our party of 10 got our plates roughly about the same time. I ordered the 1-meat combo with 4 ribs. Decent size for a solo eater that comes with 2 sides. Garlic mashed potatoes were tasty. The side salad was good and the dressing came on the side. The ribs were on the dry side and a little burnt to my liking. Needed a steak knife to cut the meat off the bone. Otherwise, it tasted good. Burger was moist and flavorful. I'd love to come back when I'm more hungry earlier in the evening.

    Sauced BBQ & Spirits in Livermore was an okay experience overall. The surrounding area was fun, but…read morethe restaurant itself was very loud, making it difficult to relax or have a conversation. The staff was not very attentive during our visit, and the service could have been more consistent. The brisket nachos were the highlight and had good flavor, but the rest of the food was not especially memorable. I have had better barbecue at other restaurants and even at home, so the meal did not stand out enough to justify a return visit on its own. This seems like a better place to visit for happy hour, drinks, and a lively atmosphere than for the barbecue itself. Beyond happy hour, I probably would not make a special trip back.

    Photos
    Sauced BBQ & Spirits - Livermore - Interior

    Interior

    Sauced BBQ & Spirits - Livermore - Hella Cali Salad no blue cheese

    Hella Cali Salad no blue cheese

    Sauced BBQ & Spirits - Livermore - Rednexican Nachos "Runt" size

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    Rednexican Nachos "Runt" size

    Horn Barbecue

    Horn Barbecue

    4.2(473 reviews)
    12.3 mi

    Horn BBQ is the real deal! From the moment you walk in, the smoky aroma lets you know you're about…read moreto experience something special. The food is absolutely incredible tender brisket that melts in your mouth, juicy ribs with the perfect bark, and sides that taste homemade with real soul. You can tell everything is made with pride and passion. The service was just as impressive friendly, fast, and genuinely welcoming. The staff made sure our table was taken care of from start to finish, and the atmosphere had that perfect mix of laid-back and lively. Great music, good vibes, and amazing food what more could you ask for? If you're anywhere near the area, Horn BBQ is a must-visit. You'll leave full, happy, and already planning your next trip back!

    Kinda an odd experience. Ordered brisket. Looked and smelled really good…read more After waiting for about 5 minutes for someone to come to the counter. He's placing the brisket in my serving box and says. "Oh, by the way we are out of sauce." I arrived just before 2:00 PM. I asked for a cup for the soda machine, that's not working. Choice is Coke or Sprite. The collard greens were the only side they had left. They were good. Brisket had a nice smoke taste but could have used a little sauce. I can't remember going to a bbq place that has run out of sauce. I also can't remember ordering an entree and not getting at least 1 side included in the price. I was charged for a small greens after paying $31 for the brisket. Maybe I tried them on an off day.

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    Horn Barbecue
    Horn Barbecue
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    BBQ 85

    BBQ 85

    4.1(162 reviews)
    7.1 mi
    $$

    This location was alright, but it does the job if you're craving for affordable Chinese skewers…read more $9.99 for 4 beef skewers is quite a steal, since other places charge more than $13 for 3 beef skewers. I would definitely recommend skipping the popcorn chicken, Yangzhou fried rice and steamed bun skewer; they were both super dry and bland. I wouldn't come back to this location due to how busy that plaza is and finding parking isn't the best. The service and speed of the food coming out are pretty quick, but no one came to refill our waters.

    BBQ 85 opened where Urban Ka Re House was. Perimeters similar with new colorful themes, not food…read morepics. A flatscreen. Fewer tables. Karaoke. Ordered by QR code. Waiter brought the water, the food, the cheque. Surfing the 'net otherwise. Offerings (Northern Chinese): skewers, appetizers, salads, one soup, drinks..Sparse menu-just what's available. Ordered. Food came 15 minutes later. Bites: lamb skewers (4/9.99) -seldom eat skewers. Wasn't disappointed. Lamb tender, juicy fresh, cumin flavored. -some meat stuck to skewers. Literally had to tear it off with a violent jerk of my head. Chopsticks weren't helpful. Lanzhou Beef Noodles (13.99) was a special @$10. -major fail. Only savor broth superb. Not sure if meats the source of flava. Noodles not hand pulled nor al dente. Sightly soggy. At best, fresh commercially sourced. Plentiful -a few thin slices of radish and 1/2 stalk of sliced green onions irrelevant to taste. -several slices of chewy beef ala beef shank, not tender nor juicy. Bland. Should have spoon it out & tossed it with the yummy chili oil, creating my own appetizers. 3.5 stars no repeat. Affiliated with 85 Dumpling, Yayume in San Ramon.

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    BBQ 85
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    Ofa's Island BBQ - bbq - Updated September 2026

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