L&L Hawaiian Barbecue opens six new locations in April
L&L Hawaiian Barbecue is quickly expanding its footprint.
The fast-casual chain is touting its most aggressive month of expansion in company history, opening six restaurants in five states in April alone. So far, L&L has opened 12 new restaurants this year.
Last month, new L&L locations opened in Colorado Springs, Colo.; Duluth, Ga.; Sand Island and Ala Moana Center in Honolulu, Hawaii; Long Beach, Calif.; and at Randolph Air Force Base in Texas. L&L says it has more than a dozen restaurants in development and additional openings expected throughout 2026 across California, Washington, Tennessee, Indiana and Maryland, and expects to reach 250 locations by the end of the year.
“At this stage, what stands out is the strength and range of operators behind each restaurant, from experienced multi-unit owners to first-time franchisees entering the system,” said Josie Akana, VP of franchising at L&L. “We’re seeing operators expand thoughtfully while introducing the Plate Lunch to communities where it still feels new. That balance allows us to scale while staying consistent in how we serve our guests.”
Founded in 1976, L&L currently operates more than 230 locations. The chain is best known for its Plate Lunch, a signature Hawaiian meal featuring two scoops of rice, macaroni salad and a choice of protein, including BBQ mix, chicken katsu, Kalua pork with cabbage, loco moco and garlic shrimp.
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“Opening six restaurants in one month shows the strength of L&L’s franchise system and the continued appeal of Hawaii’s Plate Lunch,” said Elisia Flores, CEO of L&L. “What makes this milestone especially meaningful is the mix of experienced operators and new franchisees helping us bring L&L to more communities across the country, including here at home in Hawaii. As we grow, we remain focused on protecting the quality, consistency and aloha that define the brand.”
