L&L Hawaiian Barbecue in Sammamish, WA, is like a slice of Hawaii in the Pacific Northwest. This restaurant isn’t just about food; it’s about bringing the spirit of Aloha to your plate. With its roots tracing back to Honolulu, L&L has become a beloved franchise known for its hearty plate lunches and a menu that will make your taste buds dance.
A Taste of Hawaii
When you step into L&L Hawaiian Barbecue, you’re greeted with a warm atmosphere that makes you feel at home. The menu is packed with Hawaiian favorites, primarily the famous plate lunch. What’s a plate lunch, you ask? It’s a delightful combination of two scoops of rice, a scoop of macaroni salad, and your choice of meat or seafood. This meal is not just filling; it’s a celebration of flavors that reflects the diverse culinary heritage of Hawaii.
Menu Highlights
Here are some must-try items that showcase the essence of Hawaiian cuisine:
- Chicken Katsu: Crispy fried chicken served with a tangy katsu sauce. It’s comfort food at its best.
- Loco Moco: A unique dish featuring hamburger patties over rice, topped with brown gravy and fried eggs. It’s breakfast and dinner all in one!
- Kalua Pork: Slow-roasted shredded pork that melts in your mouth, paired perfectly with fresh cabbage.
- Spam Musubi: A popular snack made with rice and spam wrapped in seaweed. It’s a must-have for any visit.
Each dish is generously portioned, making it easy to share or not! You might find yourself wanting to keep every last bite to yourself.
The History Behind the Flavor
L&L Hawaiian Barbecue was founded in 1976 by Eddie Flores Jr. and Johnson Kam. They started with one location in Honolulu and quickly grew the business into a franchise that now boasts over 200 locations across the United States.
The journey from a small drive-in to a national sensation is quite impressive. The founders recognized the potential of Hawaiian cuisine on the mainland and successfully introduced dishes that many people crave. In 1999, L&L made its debut on the mainland, and since then, it has been serving authentic Hawaiian flavors while maintaining affordable prices. The restaurant has gained accolades for its growth and popularity, even being recognized as one of Yelp’s fastest-growing brands.
More Than Just Food
What sets L&L apart isn’t just its delicious food; it’s also about community and culture. The restaurant often hosts events celebrating Hawaiian traditions and flavors. For instance, they recently partnered with Botrista to offer an exciting range of craft beverages like tropical lemonades and boba teas. Imagine sipping a refreshing Lilikoi lemonade while enjoying your plate lunch; it’s like a mini-vacation!
The Experience
Visiting L&L Hawaiian Barbecue is more than just grabbing a bite to eat; it’s an experience filled with friendly service and vibrant Hawaiian vibes. The staff is known for their hospitality, ensuring you feel welcomed from the moment you walk in. Whether you’re dining solo or with friends and family, there’s something about sharing a meal here that brings everyone together.
Special Promotions
Keep an eye out for special promotions! For example, they celebrate National Spam Day on August 8th each year with fun deals like buy-one-get-one-free Spam Musubi. These events highlight their menu and engage the community in joyful celebrations.
Why You Should Visit
If you’re in Sammamish or nearby, L&L Hawaiian Barbecue should be on your list of places to try. Here are a few reasons why:
- Authentic Flavors: Enjoy genuine Hawaiian dishes made from quality ingredients.
- Generous Portions: You won’t leave hungry; their plates are big enough to satisfy any appetite.
- Friendly Atmosphere: Experience the warmth of Aloha through their exceptional service.
- Cultural Events: Participate in special events that celebrate Hawaiian culture.
In conclusion, L&L Hawaiian Barbecue in Sammamish is not just another restaurant; it’s a place where food brings people together, and every meal tells a story of tradition and community. So next time you find yourself craving something deliciously different, head to L&L and treat yourself to a taste of Hawaii. You won’t regret it!
Sources: hawaiianbarbecue.com, sammamish.townsites.org
Header Image Source: images.app.goo.gl
