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The Best Places to Get Lau Lau on the Hawaiian Island of Kauai
If you’re visiting the lush island of Kauai, indulging in traditional Hawaiian food is an absolute must. Among the many culinary delights Hawaii is known for, lau lau is a standout dish that perfectly embodies the island’s rich culture and heritage. Lau Lau, which translates to "leaf leaf," is a savory Hawaiian dish typically made by wrapping pork, chicken, or fish in taro leaves, then steaming the bundles until the meat becomes tender and the leaves impart their earthy flavor.
Wondering where to get the best lau lau on Kauai? From roadside food trucks to local restaurants steeped in tradition, here are the top spots to enjoy this Hawaiian favorite on the Garden Isle.
Hanalei Taro & Juice Co.
Location: Hanalei, North Shore Kauai
Hanalei Taro & Juice Co. is one of the most beloved stops on the island for authentic Hawaiian fare. Their lau lau is a must-try, crafted from pork and fish wrapped in fresh taro leaves grown on the family’s taro farm. You can enjoy it as part of a traditional Hawaiian plate lunch with rice, poi, and lomi salmon. Hanalei Taro & Juice Co. operates as a food truck, allowing you to enjoy your meal while soaking in the serene North Shore atmosphere.
Pro Tip: Their menu changes daily, so check their website or Instagram to ensure lau lau is on the menu the day you visit!
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Mark’s Place
Location: Puhi, East Kauai
Mark’s Place is a local treasure located in Puhi. Known for its hearty Hawaiian plate lunches, this eatery serves up some of the best lau lau on the island. Their pork lau lau is tender, flavorful, and wrapped in perfectly steamed taro leaves. Pair it with their famous mac salad, and you’re in for a culinary treat.
What makes it unique: Mark’s Place is a family-run restaurant serving locals and tourists for years. Their dishes are made with care and a dedication to authentic Hawaiian flavors.
Aloha Aina Juice Café & Plate Lunch
Location: Kapaa, East Kauai
For an authentic plate lunch experience, head to Aloha Aina Juice Café. While they’re better known for their smoothies and acai bowls, their traditional Hawaiian plates—especially their lau lau—are not to be missed. Whether you choose pork or chicken lau lau, you’ll taste the love and authenticity in every bite.
Good to know: They also offer vegetarian-friendly taro leaf-based dishes for non-meat eaters, making this spot a great choice for groups with diverse preferences.
Pono Market
Location: Kapaa, East Kauai
A true hidden gem, Pono Market is where locals go for authentic Hawaiian comfort food. Their lau lau is tender, flavorful, and wrapped in perfectly steamed taro leaves. It’s a small market and deli, so the atmosphere is casual, but the food is as authentic as possible. Stop in early—they tend to sell out fast!
Bonus Tip: While there, try their poke and lomi salmon for the full Hawaiian culinary experience.
What Makes Lau Lau on Kauai So Special?
Kauai’s rich volcanic soil and year-round tropical climate make it the perfect place for growing taro, a key ingredient in lau lau. Many restaurants and food trucks source their taro leaves locally, ensuring fresh, high-quality ingredients. Additionally, the island’s deep connection to Hawaiian culture and traditions means you’re not just eating food—you’re experiencing a piece of Kauai’s history.
Where to Find Lau Lau If You’re Short on Time
If you’re short on time or don’t feel like hunting down a restaurant, head to Costco in Lihue for pre-packaged lau lau from local Hawaiian brands. It’s a great option if you want to enjoy lau lau in the comfort of your hotel or Airbnb.
Conclusion
Lau lau is more than just a meal—it’s a taste of Hawaii’s cultural heritage. Whether savoring it at a food truck on Kauai’s scenic North Shore or grabbing a plate lunch on the go, you’ll quickly discover why this dish has been cherished for generations. The island of Kauai offers a variety of spots where you can enjoy traditional lau lau, so don’t miss the chance to indulge during your visit.
