Craving the taste of paradise? You don’t need a plane ticket to Hawaii. Concord, California, nestled in the heart of the East Bay, boasts a surprisingly vibrant Hawaiian food scene. From savory kalua pig to refreshing poke bowls, the flavors of the islands are closer than you think. Concord, easily accessible from throughout the Bay Area, offers a diverse range of dining experiences, and that includes a delicious taste of Aloha.
This guide will take you on a culinary journey to discover the best Hawaiian restaurants and food spots in Concord, offering a taste of island flavors right here in the Bay Area. Get ready to hang loose and discover your new favorite spot for authentic Hawaiian food Concord CA has to offer!
L&L Hawaiian Barbecue: A Local Favorite
Located on Willow Pass Road, L&L Hawaiian Barbecue brings the familiar taste of plate lunches to Concord. A staple in the Hawaiian food landscape, L&L is known for its generous portions and classic dishes. The atmosphere is casual and family-friendly, perfect for a quick and satisfying meal.
When you step into L&L Hawaiian Barbecue, you’re immediately greeted by the aroma of grilled meats and steaming rice. Their signature dish is undoubtedly the BBQ Chicken, marinated in a sweet and savory sauce and grilled to perfection. It’s served with two scoops of white rice and a scoop of macaroni salad – the quintessential Hawaiian plate lunch experience.
But don’t stop there! The Kalua Pig, slow-roasted pork with a smoky flavor, is another must-try. For seafood lovers, the Garlic Shrimp offers a delicious alternative, bursting with garlic and buttery goodness. And of course, no visit is complete without trying the Loco Moco, a hamburger patty served over rice, topped with a fried egg and brown gravy.
What makes L&L unique is its commitment to providing authentic Hawaiian flavors at an affordable price. It’s a great option for a quick lunch, a family dinner, or a casual get-together. They also offer catering services, bringing the taste of the islands to your next event. “We love L&L! The food is always delicious, and the portions are huge. It’s like a little piece of Hawaii right here in Concord,” says a local resident, Maria S.
They are a great starting point when exploring Hawaiian food Concord CA has.
Ono Hawaiian BBQ: More Than Just a Meal
Ono Hawaiian BBQ, located on Concord Avenue, offers a more modern and polished take on Hawaiian cuisine. With a vibrant and inviting atmosphere, it’s a popular spot for both lunch and dinner. Ono Hawaiian BBQ provides a comfortable setting to enjoy a taste of paradise right in Concord.
While they offer the classic plate lunches, Ono Hawaiian BBQ also features a wider variety of dishes, including more seafood options and specialty plates. Their Kalbi Short Ribs are a standout, marinated in a Korean-inspired sauce and grilled to tender perfection. The Hawaiian BBQ Chicken is another popular choice, known for its sweet and tangy flavor.
For those looking for something different, the Island Fire Chicken is a spicy and flavorful option. The Chicken Katsu, breaded and deep-fried chicken cutlets, is a satisfying and comforting dish. And of course, they also offer a variety of poke bowls, allowing you to customize your own with your favorite ingredients.
Ono Hawaiian BBQ prides itself on using fresh ingredients and preparing their dishes with care. They offer a more upscale dining experience while still maintaining the casual and friendly atmosphere that Hawaiian food is known for. They also provide catering services for larger events. A Yelp reviewer raves, “Ono Hawaiian BBQ is my go-to spot for Hawaiian food in Concord. The portions are generous, the food is always fresh, and the service is great!” Definitely one to consider when your looking for Hawaiian food Concord CA.
Exploring Beyond the Restaurants: A Taste of Hawaii at Home
While Concord boasts some excellent Hawaiian restaurants, there are other ways to experience the flavors of the islands. Keep an eye out for local food trucks that may occasionally feature Hawaiian specialties. These mobile kitchens can be a great way to discover hidden gems and unique interpretations of classic dishes.
Additionally, consider checking out local grocery stores for Hawaiian ingredients or prepared foods. You might be able to find items like Hawaiian sweet bread, SPAM (a surprisingly popular ingredient in Hawaiian cuisine), or even pre-made poke bowls. Creating your own Hawaiian-inspired meal at home can be a fun and rewarding experience.
Many of the Hawaiian restaurants in Concord also offer catering services. If you’re planning a party or event, consider bringing the taste of the islands to your guests with a delicious Hawaiian feast. From kalua pig to huli huli chicken, a catered Hawaiian meal is sure to impress.
Understanding the Heart of Hawaiian Cuisine
Hawaiian cuisine is a vibrant fusion of flavors, drawing inspiration from Polynesian, Asian, and Western culinary traditions. Key ingredients include taro (poi), pork, Spam, pineapple, fresh fish, and soy sauce. The unique combination of these elements creates a culinary experience that is both comforting and exotic.
Kalua Pig, a traditional Hawaiian dish, is slow-roasted pork cooked in an underground oven (imu). This process imparts a smoky and incredibly tender flavor to the pork. Loco Moco, a local favorite, consists of a hamburger patty served over rice, topped with a fried egg and brown gravy. Poke, a raw fish salad, is another popular dish, featuring fresh fish marinated in soy sauce, sesame oil, and other seasonings.
Huli Huli Chicken, marinated in a sweet and savory sauce and grilled over an open flame, is a true Hawaiian barbecue classic. And of course, no discussion of Hawaiian food is complete without mentioning Spam, a canned meat product that has become a beloved ingredient in many Hawaiian dishes. From Spam musubi (Spam sushi) to Spam fried rice, this humble ingredient is a testament to the resourcefulness and creativity of Hawaiian cuisine. When searching for Hawaiian food Concord CA keep an open mind for all these amazing dishes.
Why is Hawaiian Food so Popular in Concord?
The popularity of Hawaiian food in Concord can be attributed to a number of factors. The area has a notable Pacific Islander population, and Hawaiian food provides a connection to their cultural heritage. The food is delicious. The sweet, savory, and umami flavors are appealing.
The popularity of poke has increased the visibility and appeal of Hawaiian food in general. Hawaiian food evokes feelings of joy, relaxation, and tropical vacations. The abundance of fresh and high-quality ingredients used in Hawaiian cooking makes it a healthy and flavorful option. For those who have traveled to Hawaii, these dishes act as a delicious reminder of wonderful travels. Overall, when finding Hawaiian food Concord CA offers, there is a lot of great aspects to gain.
Bringing Aloha to Concord
Concord’s Hawaiian food scene offers a diverse and exciting culinary experience. From the familiar flavors of L&L Hawaiian Barbecue to the modern twists of Ono Hawaiian BBQ, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. So, next time you’re craving a taste of the islands, skip the plane ticket and head to Concord. These Hawaiian spots are sure to satisfy your appetite and transport you to paradise.
Whether you’re a longtime fan of Hawaiian cuisine or a curious newcomer, Concord has something to offer. Embrace the spirit of Aloha, grab a plate lunch, and experience the delicious flavors of Hawaii right here in the East Bay. After exploring the many different establishments offering Hawaiian food Concord CA will start to feel like the islands.
