Frequently Asked Questions

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The Paniolo BBQ Dinner, presented by Anthony’s Catering, is a weekly sunset barbecue experience held at Kahua Ranch on the Big Island of Hawaiʻi. The evening blends a hearty BBQ buffet with live country music, ranch-style activities, local history, and wide-open pasture views for a relaxed, family-friendly ranch experience.

Your evening includes:

• A welcoming “talk story” introduction to paniolo (Hawaiian cowboy) culture
• A BBQ buffet dinner served in an open-air covered deck
• Live country music and entertainment
• Ranch activities such as horseshoes, roping, line dancing, and branding a souvenir shingle
• Campfire s’mores after dinner

Yes! The experience is designed for all ages, with activities and space for kids and adults to enjoy together.

The Paniolo BBQ Dinner is held at Kahua Ranch (59-564 Kohala Mountain Rd, Waimea, HI 96743) in Waimea (Kamuela), Hawaiʻi. The event takes place weekly in the early evening from 5:30–8:30 PM.

Because this is a working ranch, gates open at 5:00 PM, and we’re unable to admit guests before that time. Please be sure to check your reservation confirmation for your specific event date and arrival details.

We do not provide ground transportation to or from the ranch. However, we’ve prepared detailed driving instructions to help you plan your visit.

👉 https://paniolobbqdinner.com/driving-instructions

This page includes step-by-step directions from various parts of the island, along with helpful tips to ensure a smooth and scenic drive to Kahua Ranch.

Yes. Reservations are required and highly recommended, as this is a popular weekly event and often sells out. Reservations must be made in advance through our website.

We recommend comfortable, casual clothing and sturdy shoes suitable for outdoor ranch terrain. Evenings can cool down after sunset, so a light jacket is encouraged. Don’t forget your camera — the views are beautiful!

Please note that the beer and wine bar is cash only, with drinks available for $4 each, so be sure to bring cash if you’d like to enjoy a beverage during the evening

The buffet features BBQ favorites such as prime rib, BBQ chicken, salads, sides, and island-style desserts. Food items are clearly labeled at the buffet for your reference.

Yes, we do our best to accommodate gluten-free, dairy allergies, nut allergies, vegetarian, and vegan dietary needs.

Because there is no kitchen at the ranch and all food is prepared off-site and brought up in advance, it is very important that you note any dietary needs in the comments section when making your reservation.

Gluten-Free:
Most of our menu items are naturally gluten-free and clearly labeled at the buffet. Please note that dinner rolls, au jus sauce, and both dessert options contain gluten. If requested in advance, we’re happy to prepare a gluten-free dessert alternative.

Dairy Allergy:
Dairy is present in the mashed potatoes, prepared horseradish, and brownies. The macadamia nut pie does not contain dairy and may be enjoyed as an alternative dessert. All food items are labeled on the buffet tables for your reference.

Vegetarian & Vegan:
We do not offer a fish alternative. With advance notice, we can provide a Mediterranean veggie kabob as an alternative entrée.

Nut Allergy:
All dinner menu items are nut-free. Please note that both dessert options either contain macadamia nuts or may have been exposed to peanut products. As an alternative, we’re happy to provide a fresh fruit plate, and we also offer a s’mores station after dinner as a sweet option.

Important Note:
While we do our best to minimize cross-contamination, we want to be transparent that we cannot guarantee a completely gluten-free or nut-free environment.

Yes. We’re happy to share that the venue is generally accessible for guests with mobility needs.

• There is a ramp leading up to the dining deck.
  
• Accessible restrooms are available on site.
  
• The primary dining and entertainment areas are wheelchair accessible.
  

Please note that the lawn area where we host games such as horseshoes and corn hole is on uneven terrain and may be difficult to access by wheelchair.

If navigating uphill is a concern, please let our parking attendant know upon arrival. The driver in your party may drop off the guest with mobility challenges at the top of the hill near the campfire area, before parking in the lot located below.

If you have specific accessibility questions or would like to plan ahead, we encourage you to contact us prior to your visit so we can help ensure a comfortable experience.

In accordance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), only trained service animals are permitted at the Paniolo BBQ Dinner.

A service animal is defined as a dog that is individually trained to perform specific tasks or work for a person with a disability. Service animals must remain under control, on a leash or harness, and with their handler at all times.

For the safety of our guests, staff, and ranch animals, pets and emotional support animals are not permitted at the ranch.

If you have questions about accessibility or service animal accommodations, please contact us prior to your visit so we can best support your experience.

Yes. Anthony’s Catering offers catering services for private events, weddings, corporate gatherings, and special occasions. Please email any inquiries to paniolobbqdinner@gmail.com.