Hula and Polynesian dancers, music, games, giveaways and food beckoned guests to the grand opening of Ono Hawaiian BBQ on Feb. 6. The new restaurant located at 31555 Yucaipa Blvd., No. 1, Yucaipa, held a ribbon cutting and grand opening on Monday. The long line of foodies wrapped around the building.
According to Loretta Chen, who is also a brand marketing specialist with Ono Hawaiian BBQ, the restaurant has been around for 20 years.
“Ono means delicious,” she said with a smile at the grand opening.
Chen frequented Ono in Temple City when she was a young child.
“The food has stayed consistent,” said Chen. “Quality and delicious.”
She said the family-owned business really cares about the employees. But it’s really all about the Hawaiian-inspired food.
Ono Hawaiian BBQ is most well-known for its chicken Katsu plate. It’s a crispy breaded chicken filet served with Ono Katsu sauce. The plate lunches all include an entree, one scoop of its famous macaroni salad, two scoops of rice and veggies.
In addition to the chicken Katsu, Chen recommends the seafood mix, Hawaiian BBQ mix and for a healthier alternative, the grilled chicken breast plate. There are spicy and regular items available, depending on personal preference.
Yucaipa City Councilman Chris Venable attended the ribbon cutting.
“The food is fantastic and everyone is extremely nice,” said Venable. “They have a wonderful staff. A big congratulations to the new business in Yucaipa. I look forward to a having a great relationship with them.”
Marilyn and Charlie Bailey of Yucaipa enjoyed the atmosphere and the food.
“We just got back from a Hawaiian cruise on Monday, and we saw more dancing here then we did on our cruise,” laughed Marilyn.
“We had a very pleasant lunch and we really enjoyed the food, ” said Charlie. “We look forward to (coming back). It’s a nice change and a great opportunity to have a different food choice.” said Charlie.
There are over 100 Ono Hawaiian BBQ restaurants in California and Arizona. According to its website, “We aim to combine the culture and “Aloha” spirit of Hawaii into our restaurants to bring a taste of the islands with exceptional service in an inviting atmosphere.”
In addition to plate lunches, gourmet salads and appetizers, catering and family meals are available.
There’s a current promotion, just in time for Super Bowl, which gives a 15% savings on all catering. The online code is Touchdown15.
For more information, visit https://onohawaiianbbq.com/. Check it out on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram @OnoHawaiianBBQ.
