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The Best Places to Get Lau Lau on Maui: A Food Lover's Guide
If you're heading to Maui and looking to taste authentic Hawaiian cuisine, lau lau is a must-try dish. This traditional meal, made of tender, slow-cooked pork (or fish) wrapped in taro leaves and steamed to perfection, is a cultural and culinary treasure. Whether you’re a foodie on a mission or just curious about local flavors, we’ve rounded up the best places on the island to savor this Hawaiian staple.
What is Lau Lau?
Lau lau is a classic Hawaiian dish deeply rooted in local traditions. It’s prepared by wrapping meat (often pork, chicken, or fish) in taro leaves, which impart a rich, earthy flavor as they steam. The wrapped bundle is then encased in ti leaves and cooked in an underground imu (traditional oven) or steamed for hours, resulting in a tender, flavorful dish.
Served alongside rice and mac salad, lau lau is a cornerstone of Hawaiian plate lunches and an essential part of any Hawaiian dining experience. If you're visiting Maui, you're in luck—this island is home to some of the best spots to try it!
Top Spots to Get Lau Lau on Maui
Aloha Mixed Plate
Location: Lahaina
Why It’s Great:
Aloha Mixed Plate is a popular spot for visitors and locals, offering a range of traditional Hawaiian dishes. Their lau lau is a highlight, featuring tender pork wrapped in fresh, flavorful taro leaves. Served as part of a packed plate lunch, it comes with rice, macaroni salad, and sometimes lomi salmon. Located right by the beach, you can enjoy your meal with stunning ocean views.
Website: Aloha Mixed Plate
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Da Kitchen
Location: Kihei
Why It’s Great:
Da Kitchen is an institution on Maui for hearty, delicious Hawaiian food. Their pork lau lau is a customer favorite, celebrated for its perfectly steamed texture and bold flavor. Pro tip: pair it with their kalua pig or loco moco for a filling, flavor-packed meal. With large portions and authentic recipes, Da Kitchen has a reputation as one of the best local food joints.
Website: Da Kitchen
Tiffany’s Bar & Grill
Location: Wailuku
Why It’s Great:
Tiffany’s Bar & Grill combines classic Hawaiian dishes with Asian fusion flavors. Their lau lau is authentic and flavorful, often served in a no-frills, family-friendly atmosphere. Locals rave about their consistency and reasonable prices. If you’re exploring central Maui, this spot is worth a visit for its hearty Hawaiian classics.
Website: Tiffany’s Bar & Grill
Mama’s Fish House
Location: Paia
Why It’s Great:
While primarily known for its upscale seafood dishes, Mama’s Fish House offers a modern take on traditional Hawaiian cuisine. Their lau lau features fresh, locally sourced fish wrapped in taro leaves, delivering a high-end twist on the classic dish. The oceanfront setting and elegant ambiance make it a perfect spot for a special occasion.
Website: Mama’s Fish House
Kihei Caffe
Location: Kihei
Why It’s Great:
Kihei Caffe is a popular breakfast and brunch spot that serves various local dishes, including lau lau. Their generous portions and affordable prices make it a hit with visitors and locals alike. Be prepared for a bit of a wait, as this café is often bustling, but the authentic Hawaiian flavors are well worth it.
Website: Kihei Caffe
Insider Tips for Finding the Best Lau Lau on Maui
- Ask the Locals: Locals know the best-hidden gems and might guide you to lesser-known spots that serve exceptional lau lau.
- Try a Farmer’s Market: Many local farmers’ markets, such as the Upcountry Farmers Market in Pukalani, offer homemade lau lau cooked by local vendors.
- Look for Plate Lunches: Lau lau is often served as part of a Hawaiian plate lunch, accompanied by rice, mac salad, and other traditional sides.
Conclusion
From casual cafés to upscale dining spots, Maui offers countless ways to enjoy authentic lau lau. Whether you’re looking for a quick, hearty lunch or an elevated take on this Hawaiian classic, the island has something for every palate. Explore the diverse food culture in Maui, and don’t miss the chance to savor the earthy, tender, and flavorful goodness of lau lau.
