Huli Sue's to Appear on 'Diners, Drive-Ins, and Dives'

The Hawaiian and Texas-style barbecue fusion spot will be featured in an episode premiering this Friday, Jan. 30 at 9 p.m.

Jan. 27, 2026 at 3:07pm

Huli Sue's BBQ and Grill, a beloved Grove Arcade spot in Asheville, North Carolina that blends classic Hawaiian dishes and Texas-style barbecue, will be featured in an upcoming episode of the popular Food Network show 'Diners, Drive-Ins, and Dives' premiering this Friday, January 30 at 9 p.m.

Why it matters

Huli Sue's appearance on the show hosted by Guy Fieri, known as the 'Mayor of Flavortown', will bring national attention to the restaurant's unique fusion cuisine and help showcase Asheville's vibrant and diverse food scene.

The details

During his visit in early December, Fieri sampled several of Huli Sue's signature dishes, including the famous Sue's Huli chicken, soy spam bowls, reuben spring rolls, poke nachos, baby back ribs, and mac and cheese with brisket. The restaurant's owner, Lisa Smith-Vann, said Fieri 'immediately felt like a longtime friend' and was excited to share Huli Sue's food with the nation.

  • Guy Fieri visited Huli Sue's in early December 2025 to promote his tequila brand.
  • The Huli Sue's episode of 'Diners, Drive-Ins, and Dives' will premiere on Friday, January 30, 2026 at 9 p.m.
  • The episode will re-air on Saturday, January 31, 2026 at 12:00 a.m. and Saturday, February 14, 2026 at 7:30 p.m.

The players

Huli Sue's BBQ and Grill

A beloved Grove Arcade spot in Asheville, North Carolina that blends classic Hawaiian dishes and Texas-style barbecue.

Guy Fieri

The host of the popular Food Network show 'Diners, Drive-Ins, and Dives'.

Lisa Smith-Vann

The owner of Huli Sue's BBQ and Grill.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“He immediately felt like a longtime friend even after only a few hours spent together. He was excited to share our food with the nation, and we were excited to feed him.”

— Lisa Smith-Vann, Owner, Huli Sue's BBQ and Grill

The takeaway

Huli Sue's appearance on the popular 'Diners, Drive-Ins, and Dives' show will bring national exposure to Asheville's diverse and vibrant food scene, highlighting the restaurant's unique fusion of Hawaiian and Texas-style barbecue flavors.