L&L Hawaiian Barbecue - Laie (Kamehameha Hwy)

A Taste of the Islands in Laie

When you find yourself cruising along the windward coast, passing the lush hills of Laie, the unmistakable scent of savory teriyaki and deep-fried katsu serves as a natural beacon. This local L&L Hawaiian Barbecue outpost acts as a refueling station for surfers, students, and travelers alike, offering that quintessential island comfort food that defines the North Shore experience.

The Plate Lunch Legacy

The menu remains rooted in the traditional Hawaiian plate lunch culture—generous portions designed to power you through a day in the ocean. The Chicken Katsu is a crowd favorite, featuring a golden, crispy breading that gives way to tender meat, best enjoyed with a healthy dousing of their signature katsu sauce. If you are looking for something more substantial, the BBQ Mix offers a variety of marinated meats that highlight the sweet and smoky flavors synonymous with Hawaiian-style grilling. Don’t skip the classic macaroni salad; it is the creamy, cooling counterpoint to the saltiness of the main entrees, served alongside the ubiquitous two scoops of white rice.

What to Expect

Stepping inside, the atmosphere is utilitarian and fast-paced, mirroring the breezy, no-fuss lifestyle of Laie. It is the kind of place where you order at the counter, grab a plastic tray, and head straight back out to the beach. Be mindful that during the midday lunch rush, the parking lot near the Kamehameha Highway corridor can get quite crowded, so you might need to be patient while navigating the turn-in. While it is not a place for white-tablecloth service, it is exactly where you go when you want an authentic, no-frills meal that fills you up after a long morning at the nearby beaches or a hike through the local valley trails.