Asian Hawaiian Fusion Food at Aloha Bar & BBQ

Editor’s Note: Aloha Bar & BBQ closed at the end of 2013, and is no longer in operation.

My taste buds lit up as I sunk my teeth through the soft bun, and into the sumptuous pulled pork.

I turned to Jerry, owner of Aloha Bar & BBQ in Parque Lleras, and said I’d most certainly be back for the full size version.

The little pork sandwich was a minor player on a mixed plate dominated by ribs, but it won me over in an instant.

Speaking of ribs, Jerry is incredibly proud of the ribs his wife Sandra cooks up at Aloha, and had invited me to try them for myself.

In June, our very own Hawaiian Ryan first wrote about Aloha, but now it was my turn. I’d been to Hawaii once during a family vacation, but that trip was over 20 years ago.

Aloha Bar & BBQ is located prominently atop Parque Lleras, adjacent the Juan Valdez Cafe. In terms of visibility, it’s hard to beat.

When I stepped inside the restaurant, Jerry greeted me warmly, and led me to the best seat in the house.

The table closest to the entrance is perfect for people watching. If you’re lucky, you might catch some of Colombia’s top models exiting the Charlee Hotel after completing their workouts.

But I was here for the food, and Jerry took care of ordering a sampler platter for me.

When it arrived, I knew I was in over my head. I started with the pork sandwich because it was the least intimidating option, aside from the fresh coleslaw and potato salad.

As you already know, it was love at first bite. My mouth is watering just thinking about it.

Next, I moved onto the three ribs. I can be picky when it comes to ribs, because I’m not one of those guys who enjoys gnawing on bones.

I prefer to use a knife and fork, though I’m also willing to get a little messy when necessary.

Considering the size of the bones, there was a ton of meat on each of them., and as Ryan noted in his story, not much fat or grizzle.

Knowing I was only halfway through the plate, I moved on to the teriyaki chicken skewer, which I quickly stripped clean.

Last, but not least, I picked up the beef skewer, and bit off one tender bite at a time. I usually avoid beef because it’s dry and overcooked, but as Jerry promised, their meat was all juicy and delicious.

By this point, I was stuffed, with barely enough energy left to slip a few fresh pineapple slices into my mouth. They reminded me of the pineapple I’d eaten at the Dole pineapple factory on my family vacation to Hawaii.

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My lunch was provided compliments of Aloha.

Editor’s Note: Aloha Bar & BBQ closed at the end of 2013, and is no longer in operation.