A taste of Hawai’i is continuing to make its way across the mainland, as L&L Hawaiian Barbecue opens a new location in Duluth, Georgia- marking another step in the brand’s growing East Coast footprint.
The new restaurant, which opened on April 2, is the company’s 12th East Coast location and brings its global total to more than 230 restaurants. It also expands L&L’s presence in Georgia to 5 locations, bringing its signature island flavors to a fast-growing, diverse community.
Known for its roots in Hawai’i, the chain is built around the classic “plate lunch,” a local favorite that reflects the island’s multicultural influences. Each dish typically includes two scoops of rice, macaroni salad, and a choice of entree– a combination designed to be both simple and satisfying.
The Duluth location offers dine-in, take-out, mobile ordering, and catering, with a bright interior that blends the brand’s signature red and yellow color scheme with surfboard décor and coastal design elements.
Company officials say the expansion is driven in part by franchise operators who have a personal connection to the brand’s food and culture.
The Duluth location is owned and operated by Sam Kim, a first-time L&L franchisee with a background in retail, wholesale, and restaurant operations. Originally from South Korea, Kim discovered L&L while living in Colorado, where a Plate Lunch introduced him to a style of food that felt both familiar and distinct.
“What stood out about Sam early on was how personally he connected to the food,” said Josie Akana, vice president of franchising at L&L Hawaiian Barbecue.
“He experienced it first as a customer, and it stayed with him. When someone comes into the system with that kind of perspective, it changes how they show up for their team and their guests. As we continue to grow across the East Coast, it’s operators like Sam who help introduce the Plate Lunch in a way that feels natural to their community while staying true to where it comes from.”
The company said additional grand opening events are expected to be announced at a later date.
