Trader Vic's Chinese Ovens can be traced back two thousand years to the Han Dynasty and differ from traditional direct fire barbecues in that the heat is indirectly drawn in from the outside. This technique imparts a subtle smoky flavor and prevents fat drippings from catching fire which can give meats an objectionable flavor and dirty appearance. The Chinese Ovens, unique to Trader Vic's, are the only type of barbecue known that avoids this. Each Trader Vic's restaurant has a room showcasing this ancient style of cooking.