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The Best Places to Get Lau Lau on Oahu
When you visit the Hawaiian island of Oahu, indulging in authentic Hawaiian food is a must, and lau lau tops the list of traditional dishes you simply can’t miss. Lau lau, a Hawaiian classic, is a savory dish made by wrapping pork, butterfish (or other proteins), and sometimes chicken in taro leaves, then steaming it to tender perfection in an underground imu (oven) or pressure cooker. It’s a beautiful example of Hawaiian cuisine combining flavor, culture, and tradition.
In this guide, we’ll share the best spots on Oahu to enjoy lau lau, from iconic local eateries to hidden gems, so that you can savor this flavorful Hawaiian dish like a true local.
What Makes Lau Lau So Special?
Before diving into where to find the best lau lau, let’s explore what makes it so unique. Lau lau's earthy, smoky, and savory flavor comes from the combination of tender taro leaves and the slow cooking process, which locks in the juices of the meat and the subtle saltiness of the butterfish. It’s more than a meal—it’s a symbol of Hawaiian heritage and hospitality.
Whether served with sides like poi, lomi lomi salmon, or rice, lau lau offers an authentic taste of the islands.
Best Places to Get Lau Lau on Oahu
If you're ready to try lau lau, here are some of the top-rated spots on Oahu to get your fix:
Helena’s Hawaiian Food
- Location: 1240 N School St, Honolulu
- Why It’s a Must-Try: Helena’s is one of the most beloved spots for Hawaiian food on Oahu, and their lau lau is a fan favorite. The restaurant, which has been serving traditional Hawaiian cuisine since 1946, even won a James Beard Award for its contributions to culinary heritage. Their pork lau lau is perfectly tender, with taro leaves so flavorful you’ll want to order a second helping.
- Pro Tip: Pair your lau lau with Helena’s kalua pig and pipikaula ribs for the ultimate Hawaiian feast.
- Visit Helena's Hawaiian Food Here
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Alicia’s Market
- Location: 267 Mokauea St, Honolulu
- Why It’s a Must-Try: Alicia’s Market is a long-time local favorite for takeout Hawaiian food, including some of the best lau lau on the island. The flavors are rich and authentic, with a perfect balance of smokiness and saltiness.
- Pro Tip: Call ahead to check availability—they often sell out of lau lau during lunch hours.
- Visit Alicia's Market Here
Waiahole Poi Factory
- Location: 48-140 Kamehameha Hwy, Kaneohe
- Why It’s a Must-Try: Nestled along Oahu’s scenic windward coast, Waiahole Poi Factory is a local institution serving authentic Hawaiian dishes in a laid-back atmosphere. Their lau lau steamed fresh daily, is a standout on the menu.
- Pro Tip: Don’t miss their famous sweet kulolo or haupia ice cream for dessert after your meal.
- Visit Waiahole Poi Factory Here
Yama’s Fish Market
- Location: 2332 Young St, Honolulu
- Why It’s a Must-Try: Yama’s Fish Market offers Hawaiian plate lunches that locals swear by, and their lau lau is no exception. Made with high-quality ingredients, it’s served hot and ready to satisfy your craving for traditional Hawaiian flavors.
- Pro Tip: If you’re a butterfish fan, Yama’s lau lau delivers in every bite. Pair it with their delicious poi or macaroni salad for the full experience.
- Visit Yama's Fish Market Here
Highway Inn
- Location: Multiple Locations (Honolulu and Waipahu)
- Why It’s a Must-Try: With a history dating back to 1947, Highway Inn is a go-to spot for Hawaiian food on Oahu. Their lau lau is hearty, flavorful, and made using traditional cooking methods. They also offer pork or chicken lau lau options, catering to different tastes.
- Pro Tip: Try their “Hawaiian Combo Plate” for a sampler that includes lau lau, kalua pig, lomi lomi salmon, and more.
- Visit Highway Inn Here
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Ono Hawaiian Foods
- Location: 726 Kapahulu Ave, Honolulu
- Why It’s a Must-Try: Ono Hawaiian Foods is a small, no-frills eatery with a big reputation for authentic Hawaiian dishes. Their lau lau is consistently tender and flavorful, thanks to their meticulous preparation.
- Pro Tip: The cozy atmosphere makes this a great spot to immerse yourself in local culture while enjoying a comforting meal.
- Visit Ono Hawaiian Foods Here
Young's Fish Market
Location: Honolulu
Why It’s Great:
Young’s Fish Market is a beloved institution in Oahu, celebrated for serving some of the island's best lau lau. This family-owned eatery has been delighting locals and visitors for decades with its traditional Hawaiian comfort food. Their lau lau is tender, flavorful, and perfectly cooked, wrapped in taro leaves and bursting with savory fillings. Beyond lau lau, you’ll find an array of classic plate lunches, poke, and desserts like sweet butter mochi. With its casual, welcoming atmosphere and authentic island flavors, Young's Fish Market is a must-visit spot to experience authentic Hawaiian cuisine.
Website: Young's Fish Market
Insider Tips for Eating Lau Lau on Oahu
- Timing Matters: Many places sell out of lau lau early in the day, so plan to arrive before lunchtime for the best selection.
- Plate Lunch Culture: Most spots serve lau lau as part of a plate lunch, often accompanied by rice, macaroni salad, and poi. It’s the perfect way to try multiple Hawaiian staples at once.
- Try the Sides: Don’t skip the lomi lomi salmon or poi—these traditional sides perfectly complement the flavors of lau lau.
The Legacy of Lau Lau: More Than Just Food
Lau lau is more than just a delicious meal; it’s a connection to the past, a reflection of Hawaii’s rich history and culture. Whether you're enjoying it at a bustling Honolulu eatery or a quiet roadside shop on the windward coast, each bite of lau lau tells a story of tradition and aloha.
