Hawaii, with its rich culinary heritage, offers a plethora of dishes that tantalize the taste buds. Among them, Lau Lau stands out as a traditional favorite. This dish, made of pork wrapped in taro leaves and steamed to perfection, embodies the essence of Hawaiian cuisine. In this guide, we’ll explore the best places to savor the best Lau Lau in Hawaii and dive deep into its flavors and history.
At a Glance
Traditional Lau Lau Spots
Lau Lau, a beloved Hawaiian dish, is a delightful culinary experience that encapsulates the rich heritage of the islands. For those seeking an authentic taste, Helena’s Hawaiian Food in Honolulu stands as a testament to time-honored traditions. Established in 1946, this iconic eatery has been serving traditional Lau Lau wrapped in taro leaves and steamed to perfection, capturing the essence of old Hawaii. Another gem is Kaaloa’s Super J’s, a family-run establishment known for its generous portions, genuine flavors, and the warmth of Aloha spirit. Visiting these spots is like taking a step back in time, savoring the flavors that have delighted locals for generations.
Fusion Variations of Lau Lau
As the Hawaiian culinary scene evolves, modern chefs are reimagining traditional dishes, and Lau Lau is no exception. At places like MW Restaurant, innovation meets tradition. Here, you can savor a contemporary take on Lau Lau, where the dish is infused with flavors like miso and ginger, offering a delightful fusion of East meets West. For the adventurous and those seeking a twist on the classic, Piggy Smalls presents a vegetarian version of Lau Lau, replacing the traditional pork with a hearty mix of mushrooms and tofu, proving that the essence of Lau Lau can be captured in various forms.
Family Recipes
The heart of Hawaiian cuisine lies in its family recipes, cherished and passed down through generations. These recipes are more than just instructions; they are stories, memories, and a reflection of the island’s culture. Eateries like Young’s Fish Market and Highway Inn are custodians of such culinary legacies. Serving Lau Lau based on cherished family recipes, these establishments offer not just a meal, but a heartwarming experience. Every bite is a taste of history, love, and the enduring spirit of Hawaiian families.
FAQs
Q: What’s the difference between traditional and modern Lau Lau?
A: Traditional Lau Lau is usually made with pork, fish, or chicken wrapped in taro leaves. Modern variations might include different fillings and flavors, experimenting with the classic recipe.
Q: Can I find vegetarian Lau Lau in Hawaii?
A: Yes, several restaurants offer vegetarian or vegan versions of Lau Lau, replacing meat with ingredients like mushrooms, tofu, or jackfruit.
Q: Is it possible to make Lau Lau at home?
A: Absolutely! While the traditional method requires a bit of time and effort, the result is a flavorful and satisfying dish. Many Hawaiian families have their own home recipes.
Q: What’s the best Lau Lau in Oahu?
A: Oahu boasts several renowned spots for Lau Lau. One popular choice is Highway Inn in Honolulu, known for its authentic flavors.
Q: Which restaurant in Honolulu is famous for its Lau Lau?
A: Helena’s Hawaiian Food in Honolulu is a favorite among locals and tourists alike for its delectable Lau Lau.
Q: What’s the best Lau Lau in Maui?
A: While many restaurants in Maui serve delicious Lau Lau, Tutu’s Pantry is often recommended for its traditional preparation and taste.
Q: Where can I find the best Lau Lau in Kauai?
A: For those visiting Kauai, Ishihara Market in Waimea is a must-visit for its mouth-watering Lau Lau.
Q: Which island is considered the birthplace of Lau Lau?
A: While Lau Lau is a staple across all Hawaiian islands, it’s believed to have originated from the Big Island, where it was a traditional dish for native Hawaiians.
Q: How is Lau Lau traditionally cooked?
A: Lau Lau is traditionally cooked in an underground oven called an ‘imu’. The packets of meat and taro leaves are placed on hot stones, covered with more leaves, and then buried to slow-cook for hours.
Lau Lau is more than just a dish; it’s a journey through Hawaii’s culinary history. Whether you’re tasting a traditional preparation, a modern fusion, or a cherished family recipe, Lau Lau promises a gastronomic adventure. So, the next time you’re in Hawaii, make sure to indulge in this flavorful delight!
Scott Sweeney is the creator of Virtual Hawaii 360. Scott is a professional marketer and a lifelong Hawaii enthusiast. Scott splits time between Oahu and Dayton, Ohio. In addition to his marketing endevours, he is also a published Ukulele musician.