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‘L’ marks the spot for good eats

Columns What's Cooking?

November 30, 2014

Story By: Rachel Breit | Photos by: Rachel Breit

We all know L&L Hawaiian Barbecue. It’s the destination for fast-food local style. But did you know L&L goes the extra mile and makes its meals from scratch? Couple this with quick service and reasonable prices, and it’s no wonder people can’t get enough. The eatery’s varied menu also means there’s something for everyone.

If you want something on the lighter side, Healthy Garlic Shrimp (prices vary by location) is the best of both worlds: wholesome and tasty. “You can have all our really great proteins, but if you don’t want mac salad or white rice, you can get it with something healthier,” says CFO Elisia Flores. Flavorful garlic shrimp cooked with minced garlic and tossed with green onion is paired with a host of fresh veggies: iceberg lettuce, tomato, cucumber, chickpeas and kidney beans. Brown rice adds a scoop of complex carbohydrates and fiber. Shrimp not your thing? “You can also have barbecue chicken instead,” explains executive chef Raymond Cheng.

Opposites attract in the L&L favorite, Chicken Katsu (prices vary by location). It starts with chicken thighs and high-quality panko, and ends in the perfect combination of crunch and tenderness. The accompanying sauce also hits the right notes: sweet, tangy and a little spicy. Like all other sauces L&L dishes out, the one-of-a-kind katsu sauce is made from scratch. “The chicken katsu is completely made by hand by us,” says Flores.

L&L also serves the hot, trendy Ramen Burger (prices vary by location). Ever heard of it? Ramen noodles are molded into buns and served with choice of patty — beef, veggie or salmon — and topped with a savory teriyaki sauce. “The sauce is a little bit thicker so it gives it a little extra flavor because it seeps into the noodles,” Flores says. The salmon burger features chunks of moist Atlantic salmon. Fries and a drink complete the unique combo meal.

If you’re thinking of throwing a party, both the garlic shrimp and chicken katsu are available in catering sizes. And, for the month of December, receive a free tray of rice (while supplies last) when you order $100 worth of catering. Call any location for more details.

In addition to tasty menu items, L&L has something extra for you. Be sure to ask for L&L’s annual zodiac calendar poster for 2015 (free while supplies last), decorated with imaginative art from local students.

Want to replicate your favorites from the restaurant at home? L&L’s new cookbook, with recipes ranging from meat jun to haupia, and comics to go with them, also is available for sale for $5.95 until Dec. 6, from the corporation’s web-site or its main office.

L&L Hawaiian Barbecue

710 Keeaumoku St., Suite 100, Honolulu (and various locations)
955-3382
Monday-Friday, 7 a.m.-1 a.m.
Saturday and Sunday, 8 a.m.-1 a.m. (Hours vary by location)
Hawaiianbarbecue.com
Note: Prices vary by location

Honolulu, HI 96814

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