When asking yourself about something to do near me in Phoenix with a group of friends or family, consider
L&L Hawaiian Barbecue
Why L&L Hawaiian Barbecue is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
L&L Hawaiian Barbecue is a popular destination for those seeking authentic Hawaiian comfort food known as the plate lunch. This casual eatery offers a wide variety of Hawaiian-inspired dishes, including classics like Chicken Katsu, Loco Moco, Kalua Pork with Cabbage, Barbecue Chicken, and a Seafood Combo featuring fried shrimp and fish filet paired with options like beef, chicken, or short ribs. The restaurant's flavorful and hearty meals make it a great place to meet up with friends for a satisfying, laid-back dining experience. Its roots in Hawaii and expansion globally allow patrons to enjoy island-style cuisine even outside of Hawaii. The menu also includes unique and local favorites like SPAM® Saimin noodle soup. With numerous locations across the U.S. and beyond, L&L Hawaiian Barbecue is well known for delivering the comforting, flavorful dishes that have made plate lunches a cherished Hawaiian tradition. The chain’s casual atmosphere, combined with a focus on familiar, delicious food, makes it a welcoming spot for gatherings, offering a taste of Hawaiian culture and hospitality wherever you are.
Here's what people think of L&L Hawaiian Barbecue
As of recent, L&L Hawaiian Barbecue holds a 3.9-star rating based on 658 reviews.
Reviews of L&L Hawaiian Barbecue consistently highlight the restaurant's appeal as a place for quick, hearty Hawaiian fare. Many positive reviews praise the authentic flavors of the plate lunch offerings, especially favorites such as Chicken Katsu, Loco Moco, and the Kalua Pork, which evoke the traditional taste of Hawaii’s local cuisine. Customers appreciate the generous portions and value for money, making it a dependable choice for casual dining. The friendly service and convenient locations also receive favorable mentions from reviewers. However, some negative reviews point to inconsistencies in food quality across different locations and occasional issues with customer service. Others mention that certain dishes can be greasy or not as fresh as expected, contributing to mixed experiences. Despite these critiques, the overall sentiment remains positive, with many customers returning for the nostalgic and satisfying Hawaiian-style meals. In conclusion, while there may be variability in experience, L&L Hawaiian Barbecue is largely recognized for providing a beloved and fulfilling taste of Hawaiian plate lunch fare loved by both locals and visitors alike.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Marilyn Terry
The young man behind the counter was very kind and had a very good attitude. I felt very welcome in his restaurant. He even addressed the bathroom issue created by a previous customer quickly. The food was hot and good. I look forward to eating there again.
Lea J
When I walked in I was anxious but the girl at the front was super sweet and helpful. The food came out quickly and I sat in the restaurant to eat to enjoy the ambiance and to see the rush of people come in for their free spam musubi. It's been my favorite establishment since I was introduced in hawaii. I will always support them. Thank you again for the amazing food!!
Joni
Always great food when we visit. We enjoy L&L because we surely miss those ono kind grindz. 😋
John Tazioli
An ok place for a quick meal. Kind of felt "hurried" even though there was no crowd. The portions were large enough to take some home for a snack. Worth the stop but I wouldn't go out of my way.
Whitney Dunlap
If you haven't tried this place, I definitely recommend! The food is incredible and huge portions for the price. We took food home for lunch the next day. We had BBQ chicken, kalua pork, chicken katsu. The rice and macaroni salad is phenomenal! Staff is so friendly!
How to reach L&L Hawaiian Barbecue
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Why L&L Hawaiian Barbecue may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at L&L Hawaiian Barbecue with your friends?
If you're searching for a casual yet vibrant spot to gather with your friends, L&L Hawaiian Barbecue offers a fantastic blend of flavorful comfort food and a welcoming environment that makes social meetups memorable. Hawaiian cuisine is renowned for its laid-back island spirit, and this chain brings that vibe right to your table with their authentic, hearty dishes served in generous portions. The warm, inviting atmosphere invites conversation and connection, making it an ideal place to enjoy a meal together without the pressure of formality. Whether you're craving the iconic loco moco or the tender kalua pork, L&L Hawaiian Barbecue serves up familiar favorites alongside a diverse menu that caters to different tastes and dietary preferences, thus ensuring everyone in your group finds something to savor. The moderately priced dishes allow you to bring everyone along without worrying about the bill, fostering a sense of inclusivity. This combination of delicious food, affordable pricing, and a relaxed setting makes it a perfect rally point for friends to reconnect and share the joy of eating together.
What activities can you enjoy at L&L Hawaiian Barbecue during a group meetup?
L&L Hawaiian Barbecue primarily shines for its culinary experience, which naturally becomes the centerpiece of your activities when meeting here. The restaurant offers a variety of platter-style meals designed for sharing, making it easy to sample and enjoy a range of Hawaiian dishes with your friends. These communal meals foster a convivial atmosphere as everyone tries different flavors, from the savory chicken katsu to the iconic spam musubi. Besides the food, the casual environment encourages socializing and relaxing. The seating arrangements, often including booths and communal tables, accommodate groups comfortably, allowing for easy conversation and laughter. While L&L Hawaiian Barbecue is not a venue for high-energy activities like games or live music, its strength lies in creating a friendly, no-fuss dining environment perfect for chat-filled gatherings. For those who want to extend their meetup, many locations provide takeout options, letting groups move their gathering to a park or home while still enjoying L&L food. This adaptability makes it a versatile choice for group meetups focused on food and fellowship.
Why is L&L Hawaiian Barbecue ideal for a group meetup?
L&L Hawaiian Barbecue excels as a meetup spot because it offers an inviting and casual setting that encourages togetherness. Its menu is designed with sharing in mind, featuring classic dishes like the combination plates that include rice, macaroni salad, and a choice of protein, ensuring variety that pleases different palates within the group. The generous portions mean you can share dishes or even split meals, which adds a communal aspect to dining. The restaurant environment supports this by being family-friendly and informal, ideal for conversations that flow freely without the distractions or constraints common in trendier or more formal eateries. Moreover, the consistent quality and reasonable prices allow for repeated visits without breaking the budget, helping groups build rituals around these shared meals. Whether celebrating a casual get-together or a small special occasion, L&L Hawaiian Barbecue provides both the atmosphere and the cuisine that help make any group event feel special and relaxed.
What is the atmosphere like for groups at L&L Hawaiian Barbecue?
The atmosphere at L&L Hawaiian Barbecue is approachable and welcoming, making it comfortable for groups seeking a relaxed dining experience. The decor often features Hawaiian-themed touches—such as tropical colors and casual seating—that enhance the island vibe without overwhelming the casual dining feel. Many locations have booths or larger tables that allow groups to sit closely and engage easily, supporting easy conversation and shared enjoyment of the meal. While it is not a fine dining establishment, the cleanliness and simple yet cheerful interiors contribute to a positive mood. The hustle and bustle typical of a popular casual chain add energy without noise levels becoming disruptive, striking a balance that suits most group sizes. The staff are generally friendly and efficient, supportive of groups varying from couples and families to larger friend gatherings, ensuring the overall environment feels warm and accommodating.
What kind of menu options does L&L Hawaiian Barbecue offer that appeal to groups?
The menu at L&L Hawaiian Barbecue caters well to groups by offering a wide selection of hearty, flavorful dishes rooted in Hawaiian comfort food traditions. Popular options include the famous loco moco—rice topped with a hamburger patty, fried egg, and rich gravy—which is both filling and a crowd-pleaser. Other frequent favorites are the barbecued chicken, kalua pork, and teriyaki beef plates, each served with two scoops of rice and a side of macaroni salad, providing a balanced and satisfying meal. The combination plates are perfect for sharing, allowing groups to sample various meats and flavors. The menu also features smaller portion bowls for those who prefer lighter fare or want to mix and match several dishes. Additionally, sides such as spam musubi—a Hawaiian version of sushi with rice and spam wrapped in seaweed—add a fun and tasty snack everyone can pass around. This diversity in the menu ensures that the different preferences and appetites of a group are accommodated with ease.
How does the service at L&L Hawaiian Barbecue benefit group meetups?
Service at L&L Hawaiian Barbecue typically complements the relaxed and friendly vibe of the restaurant, which is helpful when managing group dynamics during meetups. Staff tend to be approachable and helpful, making suggestions and accommodating requests as needed, which can ease the process of ordering for a group with varied tastes. The service style is efficiently designed for casual dining, so groups don't feel rushed but can expect their food promptly, allowing the meetup to flow smoothly from arrival through enjoying the meal. The layout supporting quick ordering and pick-up options is useful for those who want to eat in or take food to another venue. Friendly service also enhances the communal experience by fostering a welcoming ambiance where groups feel comfortable and valued. Overall, attentive yet unobtrusive staff help maintain a positive and hassle-free environment, encouraging groups to focus on enjoying their time together.
What makes L&L Hawaiian Barbecue's pricing friendly for group gatherings?
L&L Hawaiian Barbecue’s pricing strategy is notably affordable, making it one of the more budget-friendly options for group meetups centered on dining out. The combination plates and individual entrées are reasonably priced considering the portion sizes and quality, meaning groups can enjoy satisfying meals without financial strain. This affordability allows bigger groups to gather without concerns about cost overshadowing the occasion, fostering a sense of ease and inclusivity. In addition to offering good value for dine-in meals, L&L’s menu options include smaller bowls and sides that are budget-conscious choices for group members who may want to eat lighter or try more variety. For organizers planning recurring meetups or casual celebrations, this pricing flexibility supports frequent visits, enhancing the place’s appeal for friends and family looking to make it a staple gathering spot.
How can the location and accessibility of L&L Hawaiian Barbecue enhance a meetup experience?
Most L&L Hawaiian Barbecue locations are situated in easily accessible areas, often within shopping centers or retail hubs that provide ample parking and straightforward access via car or public transport. This convenience is a strong advantage when organizing group meetups, since it reduces logistical complications and makes it easier for everyone to arrive on time and stress-free. The familiarity of these spots—located near other amenities or entertainment options—means groups can plan extended outings that might include shopping or a movie after their meal. The casual layout and often high foot traffic add to the sense of safety and comfort, making it a welcoming choice regardless of the time of day. The predictable presence of L&L in various neighborhoods provides a reliable, recognizable place to rally friends, further supporting its role as a favored meetup destination for locals and visitors alike.
What kind of crowd usually visits L&L Hawaiian Barbecue, and how does that impact group meetups?
L&L Hawaiian Barbecue generally attracts a diverse crowd, including families, friends, solo diners, and local workers looking for a quick but satisfying meal. This varied patronage creates a lively yet unpretentious atmosphere that groups often appreciate because it feels energized without being overwhelming. The mix of age groups and cultural backgrounds reflects the broad appeal of Hawaiian cuisine itself, which is comforting and accessible. For group meetups, this means you share space with a friendly, casual clientele that respects the relaxed atmosphere, helping ensure your gathering is enjoyable and free from undue interruptions or noise conflicts. The restaurant's family-friendly reputation also means children are welcome, which can make it a go-to for groups combining friends with their families for joint outings. This dynamic supportiveness of different group sizes and types enhances the overall meetup experience.
How can L&L Hawaiian Barbecue accommodate special group needs or preferences?
L&L Hawaiian Barbecue’s menu structure and service approach allow it to be flexible enough to accommodate various group needs, including dietary preferences and special requests. With offerings ranging from meat-centric plates to lighter bowls and vegetarian-friendly sides, the menu provides enough variety to satisfy diverse eating habits within a group. The staff are typically open to customizing orders, such as adjusting spice levels or substituting sides, which is important when catering to groups with varied tastes or dietary restrictions. Since the restaurant focuses on portion flexibility with both large platters and smaller bowls, it supports both hearty eaters and those preferring lighter meals, helping ensure everyone eats comfortably. This adaptability makes it easier for group organizers to plan meetups without worrying that some members may feel left out. For those desiring a more private or intimate setting, it’s advisable to check with specific locations about seating arrangements or advance reservations when possible.
What makes the food quality at L&L Hawaiian Barbecue suitable for enjoyably social meals?
The food quality at L&L Hawaiian Barbecue generally aligns well with its identity as a convenient spot for enjoyable, social meals. The freshness of the ingredients combined with the traditional Hawaiian flavors results in dishes that are both flavorful and comforting, encouraging diners to linger and savor their time together. The generous portions facilitate sharing, while the balanced combination of starchy rice, creamy macaroni salad, and protein options satisfies most appetites. While some reviews reflect variability in dishes like rice texture or seasoning, the overall experience remains positive for groups seeking fulfilling casual dining. The familiar flavors also promote a relaxed mood, making conversation flow easily as groups enjoy their familiar favorite dishes or try new ones together. This blend of taste, portion size, and familiar appeal is a key reason why L&L Hawaiian Barbecue is a favored spot for friends and families to socially connect over a meal.