As with nearly everything, BBQ "taste" is personal, with the exception of a type you have yet to try. I've been to several luaus, and I'd consider that BBQ (without smoke). They are more of a show than a feed, but you do get fed. The pork is solid (pulled) with no sauce. I don't think they even have it on the side. They do serve "poi" which is about as tasteless a thing as I've ever had, even as compared with unadorned grits. It's a touristy thing, the only reason I go back is if I'm with others who have never been and want me to go with them.
I had a gf in school for a while who was from Long Island. She invited me home with her once and said we'd have "barbecued swordfish". That trip didn't happen, but it left me wondering what in the world that could be. I think it wasn't until I moved to Cincy that I realized what folks in the north mean by "barbecue".
I probably mentioned having barbecue in Scotland of all places, it was the real deal, they were quite anxious for my opinion.