Best Laulau in Honolulu

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Another great grocery store option for surprisingly good, daily-made kalua pig. — various locations

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A historic spot that feels like stepping back in time. Their Kalua Pig is exceptionally smoky and rustic, served in a setting that emphasizes the connection between the food and the land. Pairing their pig with their fresh, hand-pounded poi is one of the most authentic food experiences on Oahu. — Kaneohe (Windward Side)

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13:00 (After a morning hike or beach trip).

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Ethel’s is a legendary "hole-in-the-wall" that serves some of the most flavorful local-style cooking in the city. Their laulau has a home-cooked feel that is hard to find elsewhere. It’s a favorite among those who want to experience the authentic "working man's" Honolulu. — Kalihi (Industrial Area)

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11:00 (Tiny spot; popular with workers).

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A reliable, 24/7 source for a consistent and comforting kalua pig and cabbage meal. — various locations

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Their dinner service includes a very solid, traditional kalua pig plate. — various locations

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A James Beard Award winner and the most respected name in Hawaiian food. Their Kalua Pig is prepared with extreme care and is widely considered the benchmark for the dish. It is perfectly smoky, moist, and seasoned with just the right amount of salt. Eating here is a mandatory pilgrimage for any serious food traveler. — Kalihi

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10:30 (Line forms before they open; cash only).

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Known for their generous portions and high-quality "classic" Hawaiian seasonings. — various locations

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A true local secret: some of the best poké in the islands is found in the back of this high-end liquor store. They use exceptionally fresh fish and have a dedicated local following for their consistent, no-nonsense seasoning. It is the ultimate "grab-and-go" spot for a beach day. — Various Locations (e.g., Kaimuki, Waialae)

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11:30.

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A local legend for their "Lunchwagon" style plates featuring some of the best laulau on the island. — Aiea

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A neighborhood institution known for their "Secret Sauce" poke and great boiled peanuts. — Diamond Head

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A great place to find hot, ready-to-eat laulau from some of the island's best local producers. — various locations

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A family-owned institution since 1947. Highway Inn offers a more "accessible" and polished environment than Helena's but maintains strict traditional standards for their Kalua Pig. It is exceptionally consistent and is a great place to try a full "Hawaiian Plate" that includes all the classic sides. — Kaka'ako / Waipahu

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11:30.

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While famous for their Lau Lau, Young's Kalua Pig is equally exceptional. It is cooked to the point of meltingly tender perfection. Their combination plates are a great way to experience the synergy between the salty pig and the earthy taro leaves of the Lau Lau. — Kalihi / Kapolei

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11:30.

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Located right next to the fish auction; the freshness here is literally unbeatable. — Kalihi

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A second mention for their consistently high-quality traditional Hawaiian-style poke. — various locations

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Another excellent source for fresh, high-quality laulau in a convenient grocery setting. — various locations

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While a short drive from Honolulu, Tanioka's is a cultural institution. It is the benchmark for many locals when it comes to "true" Hawaiian-style poké. Their seasoning is bold and traditional, and their "Spicy Ahi" is a legendary island favorite. It is the place to see the ritual of the morning poké run. — Waipahu (West of Honolulu)

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09:30 (Line starts early for their famous fried chicken too).

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A deli-style shop that offers a massive variety of poké (often 20+ varieties) alongside hearty local plates. It’s a great place to try different types of seafood beyond just Ahi, such as crab, shrimp, and various types of tako. The portions are generous and the atmosphere is pure local comfort. — Kaimuki / Kaneohe

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12:00.

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Haili's is a bastion of traditional Hawaiian cooking. Their Kalua Pig is prepared using family recipes that have been passed down for decades. It is simple, honest, and represents the "soul food" of the islands. It’s a great, less-crowded alternative to the more famous spots. — Kapahulu

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12:30.

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