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 celebrated Hawaiian-themed franchise, renowned for bringing the traditional Hawaiian Plate Lunch to fans across the United States and beyond. Founded in 1976 with roots in Honolulu, Hawaii, L&L offers a genuine taste of the islands through signature dishes like Spam Musubi, Loco Moco, Katsu Chicken, and Korean Beef Short Ribs (Kalbi). With more than 200 locations nationwide, including states like California, Texas, New York, and Hawaii itself, plus international presence in Japan, it is a convenient and popular spot for meeting friends to enjoy authentic Hawaiian food. The restaurant's casual atmosphere and quick service make it ideal for breakfast, lunch, or dinner outings. Its menu includes a variety of local favorites, alongside a healthy menu option for calorie-conscious diners. The generous portions, reasonable prices, and flavorful meals create a welcoming environment that captures the spirit of aloha, making it a standout place to gather and experience the unique culinary culture of Hawaii even miles away from the islands.

Here's what people think of L&L Hawaiian Barbecue

As of recent, L&L Hawaiian Barbecue holds a 4.5-star rating based on 164 reviews.

User reviews consistently highlight L&L Hawaiian Barbecue as a reliable and tasty dining option that delivers authentic Hawaiian flavors. Many reviewers praise the generous portions and the value for money, noting that the food is flavorful, fresh, and evocative of classic local Hawaiian cuisine. Positive feedback often emphasizes friendly and prompt service, making it a great choice for quick meals and casual meetups. Specific mentions include highly recommended menu items such as the Spam Musubi and Loco Moco, which keep locals and tourists alike coming back. On the other hand, some negative reviews point to inconsistencies in food preparation or service across different locations, with occasional reports of slow service or meals not quite meeting expectations. A few reviewers note the predominance of takeout service in some locations and comment on limited seating availability. Despite these critiques, the overall impression is very positive, as evidenced by its strong 4.5 star rating from over 160 reviews. The combination of authentic Hawaiian cuisine, convenient locations, and reasonable prices makes L&L Hawaiian Barbecue a beloved choice among customers nationwide.

Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)

Amy M.

★ ★ ★ ★ ★

L&L is one of our favorite places to eat. We’ve eaten at other L & L locations frequently and have never had an experience that isn’t 💯. Full of Aloha. Service is warm, loving and kind. Our experience tonight, on just their second day of operation, was no exception. Great food! Awesome service! Food was fresh and tasty! I was a bit hesitant as we had to grab our order To-Go (I rarely do takeout anywhere) and it was still so tasty!! Portion sizes and pricing spot on! Large menu with multiple options to accommodate the pickiest of eaters. Welcome to Boulder, L & L 🤙 We are stoked to have L & L as our new neighbor in Boulder! 100/10 will eat again, frequently…going to need to step up my workout routines to support my plate lunch habit! Seafood Combo Plate Fried Shrimp | Fried Mahi | BBQ Short Ribs | Mac Salad | Rice | BBQ Short Rib Plate BBQ Short Ribs | Mac Salad | Rice

Reina P

★ ★ ★ ★ ★

Delish! Reminds me of getting Hawaiian in Hawaii or California. The meat is well seasoned. They serve generous portions. This store has about 3 smaller tables and 2 2 bigger tables. The wait for the food was pretty short!

T Johnson

★ ★ ★ ★ ★

Ordered the Saimin w/ Bbq chicken through Uber Eats. First and last time. The noodles were complete mush…like they’d been sitting in the broth for days. Completely overcooked/overdone. Even the “bbq chicken” was tough and inedible. I ended up giving it to my dog. The only bright spot about the food is the Hawaiian macaroni salad, which is always good.

Nico Schweiger

★ ★ ★ ★ ★

Love this place. The portions are insanely big so I always get two meals out of it and everything is always piping hot and delicious.

CJS

★ ★ ★ ★ ★

Downgrading my previous 5-star review, because of SPAM slices on musubis that were pretty clearly sliced and then left to sit for far too long. Please check your dates and reconsider how SPAM is prepared - it really is simple to prepare on a line...

How to reach L&L Hawaiian Barbecue

Why rally at L&L Hawaiian Barbecue with your friends? If you're craving a casual spot that combines flavorful food with a warm and welcoming atmosphere, L&L Hawaiian Barbecue stands out as a top choice. This restaurant is more than just a place to grab a meal—it’s a vibrant hub where good times meet great tastes. Known for its unique Hawaiian-style barbecue dishes that emphasize tender meats and bold flavors, L&L offers a communal dining experience perfect for groups. Whether you’re reconnecting with old friends or gathering family for a fun outing, the substantial portions and generous mixed plates cater to shared enjoyment. The cozy yet lively environment invites conversation and laughter over plates of savory BBQ beef, chicken katsu, and classic Hawaiian sides like macaroni salad and rice. Plus, with a high rating of 4.5 from over 160 reviews, its quality and reputation make it a reliable meetup spot that balances authenticity with crowd-pleasing appeal. Ultimately, L&L Hawaiian Barbecue creates a relaxed space where every visit feels like a small celebration—ideal for friends who want a break from the usual dining routine and crave a taste of aloha together.

What activities and experiences make L&L Hawaiian Barbecue ideal for group meetups? First, the centerpiece is, of course, the food. Offering a broad variety of Hawaiian “plate lunches,” which typically include meat, rice, and macaroni salad, L&L’s menu is designed for sharing and enjoying many flavors in one sitting. Their BBQ Mix, which can comfortably feed two, showcases tender bulgogi-style beef, galbi short ribs, and chicken thighs, all marinated and cooked to highlight rich, distinctive Hawaiian tastes. This encourages diners to sample a variety of dishes together, making the meal interactive and communal. Beyond its food, L&L’s quick service and reasonable wait times ensure that groups can gather without long delays, helping to keep energy high and plans on track. The casual setting with ample seating fosters easy conversation and connection, making it well-suited for casual gatherings or low-key celebrations. Because of its approachable menu and large portions, it’s also perfect for meetings where guests have different tastes and appetites, ensuring everyone leaves satisfied.

How does L&L Hawaiian Barbecue cater to diverse group preferences and convenience? L&L’s menu diversity is practical for groups because it offers a balance of familiar comfort foods and unique island flavors. If someone is new to Hawaiian cuisine, milder dishes like the chicken katsu—crispy panko-breaded chicken served with a tangy katsu sauce—serve as accessible introductions. More adventurous palates can dive into authentic BBQ items like kalua pork or the rich galbi ribs. The restaurant’s side options, such as their famously creamy macaroni salad and fluffy rice that soaks up barbecue drippings, add texture and fun to the meal. Beyond taste, L&L scores high on convenience, with quick takeout options and efficient counter service that reduce waiting times. For groups, this means no one has to hang around too long before digging in, and you can even bring the island flavors home if preferred. L&L’s established presence and consistent quality build confidence that group meetups here will run smoothly and that food will meet expectations—a cornerstone for any successful social gathering.

What ambiance and service features enhance the group dining experience at L&L Hawaiian Barbecue? Unlike formal restaurants where group dynamics can feel restricted, L&L creates a casual, friendly vibe that invites guests to relax and enjoy their time together. The decor often includes tropical accents that evoke Hawaii’s laid-back spirit, helping transport guests mentally even before they taste the food. The informal style encourages diners to order multiple plates and share, reinforcing a sense of camaraderie. Service is generally efficient and accommodating, attentive enough to keep the experience smooth without interrupting group conversations or flow. For larger parties, the flexibility of ordering multiple combos or family-style meals that emphasize variety is a bonus, letting groups customize their dining to suit occasion or appetite. Many patrons have noted the generous portion sizes, which means food-sharing encourages not just taste exploration but also a warm, collective feeling as everyone samples and enjoys dishes together. This atmosphere, paired with friendly staff, makes L&L an excellent spot for casual reunions, birthday celebrations, or just a cheerful night out with friends or family.

What makes the food at L&L Hawaiian Barbecue particularly memorable and worth sharing with a group? The restaurant’s focus on authentic Hawaiian BBQ, with its unique blend of smoky, sweet, and savory flavors, offers a taste experience rare to find outside the islands. For instance, the BBQ beef is marinated in a bulgogi-style sauce that balances tenderness with rich umami, while the short ribs (galbi) are a flavorful showcase of Hawaiian barbecue tradition. Sides like the macaroni salad provide a creamy, tangy contrast that complements the meats perfectly and evokes the classic Hawaiian plate lunch experience. Additionally, special dishes such as chicken katsu curry combine familiar textures with island-flavored zest, appealing to diverse taste preferences. Many reviewers praise the freshness and portion size, which make sharing practical and enjoyable. The overall meal structure—protein with rice and salad—is designed for satisfying both individual guests and groups, making it easy to bond over plates they can pass around or mix and match. This culinary style, combined with the welcoming presentation, transforms dining at L&L into a lively, deeply rewarding group experience.

How does L&L Hawaiian Barbecue’s reputation enhance its appeal as a meetup destination? With a solid 4.5-star rating based on over 160 reviews across multiple locations, L&L Hawaiian Barbecue has demonstrated consistent quality and customer satisfaction. Many patrons highlight the restaurant’s ability to deliver fresh, flavorful meals that are generous in portion size, a critical factor when meeting with friends or family who want both value and taste. The chain’s focus on Hawaiian comfort food, which is simultaneously exotic and approachable, attracts a wide audience—making it a reliable choice regardless of group composition. Positive word-of-mouth about quick service and friendly staff suggests that the establishment cares about the guest experience without compromising speed or food quality. Its reputation allows meetup planners to confidently suggest the venue, knowing it will cater well to both food and atmosphere expectations. This reliability, combined with the inclusive flavor profile, cements L&L Hawaiian Barbecue as a strong contender for social dining where good vibes and great food are essential.

What additional benefits does L&L Hawaiian Barbecue offer for social group gatherings? Besides the great food and relaxed ambiance, L&L Hawaiian Barbecue’s locations often occupy convenient spots with ample parking, simplifying logistics for group arrivals and departures. The casual setup means people can come and go with flexibility, perfect for groups with varying schedules. Additionally, the restaurant’s takeout and delivery options extend the social experience beyond the premises, allowing parties to enjoy Hawaiian plate lunches at home or even at picnics and outdoor events. Some outlets are known to feature occasional live Hawaiian music, adding to the celebratory mood and cultural immersion when dining in. These extra touches enhance the overall experience, making gatherings not just about eating but about creating memorable moments. The combination of food quality, convenience, and atmosphere makes L&L a holistic environment where groups can celebrate friendship and family over a shared love of hearty, delicious Hawaiian cuisine.

Don't just take our word for it. Check out these other websites for more info on the L&L Hawaiian Barbecue

• https://www.tripadvisor.com/Restaurant_Review-g60982-d4062791-Reviews-L_L_Hawaiian_BBQ-Honolulu_Oahu_Hawaii.html
• https://www.tripadvisor.com/Restaurant_Review-g33364-d4365666-Reviews-L_L_Hawaiian_Barbecue-Colorado_Springs_El_Paso_County_Colorado.html
• https://www.tripadvisor.com/Restaurant_Review-g60634-d3936573-Reviews-L_L_Hawaiian_Barbecue-Lahaina_Maui_Hawaii.html