L&L Hawaiian Barbecue, the largest Hawai‘i-based restaurant chain, has officially reached 100 locations in California with the opening of its newest restaurant in Carlsbad. The milestone reinforces California as L&L’s largest U.S. market and reflects continued demand for Hawaii’s Plate Lunch across the state.
Located at 7610 Via Campanile, Ste. 142, Carlsbad, CA 92009, within La Costa Town Square, the restaurant is owned by franchisee Chloe Tran, whose recent openings in Colton and Jurupa Valley helped bring the brand to the 100-location milestone. Guests can enjoy dine-in, takeout, mobile-app ordering, third party delivery and catering. Hours are Sunday-Thursday from 10am–8pm and Friday-Saturday from 10am–10pm.
L&L’s California growth has been shaped by both longtime operators and first-time franchisees who connect with the brand’s cultural foundation and operational model. From major metropolitan areas to growing suburban communities, Hawaii’s Plate Lunch continues to resonate with guests seeking familiar, comforting meals rooted in the Islands’ local food culture.
“California continues to be one of the strongest growth markets for L&L because the demand for Hawaii’s local-style cuisine is already deeply established,” said Josie Akana, vice president of franchising at L&L Hawaiian Barbecue. “The state’s proximity to Hawai‘i, combined with the number of former residents and frequent visitors who understand the Plate Lunch experience, has created long-term momentum for the brand. We’re also seeing strong franchise interest from operators who recognize the staying power of the Hawaiian Barbecue category and the opportunity to introduce Hawaii’s local food culture to more communities throughout California.”
At the center of L&L’s menu is the Plate Lunch, a signature Hawai‘i meal featuring two scoops of rice, macaroni salad and a choice of protein. Popular menu items include BBQ Mix (short ribs, beef and chicken), Chicken Katsu, Kalua Pork with Cabbage, Loco Moco and Garlic Shrimp.
“Reaching 100 locations in California is a proud moment for our brand but it also carries special meaning,” said Elisia Flores, chief executive officer of L&L Hawaiian Barbecue. “California was the first location we chose to bring the Hawaiian Barbecue we love beyond Hawai‘i. That first expansion made Hawaii’s Plate Lunch more accessible to people who enjoy the flavors of the Islands, as well as those discovering them for the first time, without having to travel to Hawai‘i. What connects them is the comfort of local-style food and the feeling of aloha. For me, this milestone is also personal. My father came to Hawai‘i as an immigrant and, together with our co-founder Johnson Kam, helped build L&L from a local restaurant into a brand that now shares Hawaii’s Plate Lunch with communities around the world.”
L&L Hawaiian Barbecue currently operates more than 235 locations worldwide, with additional California restaurants in development. For more information, visit hawaiianbarbecue.com.
