L&L Hawaiian Barbecue Franchise FDD, Profits & Costs (2025)
L&L Hawaiian Barbecue is a well-established franchise specializing in Hawaiian cuisine, known for bringing the flavors and spirit of Hawaii to the mainland United States and beyond.
Founded in 1952 in Honolulu, Hawaii, the business originally began as L&L Dairy before transitioning into the beloved L&L Hawaiian Barbecue brand in 1976, under the leadership of Eddie Flores, Jr. and Johnson Kam.
The company began franchising in 1990 and has since grown significantly, establishing itself as a leading brand in the quick-service restaurant industry.
Today, L&L Hawaiian Barbecue has over 210 locations across the United States, making it a popular choice for those seeking a taste of Hawaii outside the islands.
The brand is particularly known for its unique blend of Asian-American and traditional Hawaiian dishes, offering a dining experience that stands out in the fast-food sector.
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Initial Investment
How much does it cost to start a L&L Hawaiian Barbecue franchise? It costs on average between $210,000 – $840,000 to start a L&L Hawaiian Barbecue franchised restaurant.
This includes expenses related to construction, equipment, inventory, and initial operating costs. The total amount varies based on factors such as the restaurant format, the location, and whether the franchisee opts to lease or purchase the property.
| Type of Expenditure | Estimated Amount |
|---|---|
| Initial Franchise Fee | $35,000 |
| Construction Cost | $39,450 – $450,000 |
| Furniture, Fixtures, and Equipment | $62,250 – $150,000 |
| Inventory | $6,750 – $12,000 |
| Rent (for 3 months) | $9,000 – $60,000 |
| Security Deposit for Lease | $5,000 – $15,000 |
| Branded Attire | $500 |
| Computer Equipment and Software | $3,000 – $5,000 |
| Insurance Costs (3 months) | $7,800 – $27,360 |
| Travel and Living During Training | $4,400 – $9,000 per person |
| Utility Deposits | $0 – $3,000 |
| Professional Fees | $0 – $8,000 |
| Grand Opening Advertising | $5,000 |
| Other Opening Costs | $12,000 – $24,000 |
| Additional Funds (for 3 months) | $18,000 – $36,000 |
| TOTAL ESTIMATED INITIAL INVESTMENT | $210,190 – $839,860 |
Average Revenue (AUV)
How much revenue can you make with a L&L Hawaiian Barbecue franchise? A L&L Hawaiian Barbecue franchised restaurant makes on average $821,000 in revenue (AUV) per year.
Here is the extract from the Franchise Disclosure Document:
This compares to $1,132,000 yearly revenue for similar other food & beverage franchises. Below are a few L&L Hawaiian Barbecue competitors as a comparison:
The most profitable franchises to own in 2025
We have compiled the list of the top 400 franchises across 9 industries. Download the report below.
L&L Hawaiian Barbecue Franchise Disclosure Document
Frequently Asked Questions
How many L&L Hawaiian Barbecue locations are there?
As of the latest data, L&L Hawaiian Barbecue operates over 230 locations worldwide, all of which are individually owned and operated franchises. In the United States, there are 229 locations across 16 states and territories, with the highest concentration in California, which has 96 locations, accounting for approximately 42% of the U.S. total.
What is the total investment required to open a L&L Hawaiian Barbecue franchise?
The total investment required to open a L&L Hawaiian Barbecue franchise ranges from $210,000 to $840,000.
What are the ongoing fees for a L&L Hawaiian Barbecue franchise?
L&L Hawaiian Barbecue franchisees are required to pay an ongoing royalty fee of 3% to 4% of their net sales. Additionally, franchisees contribute 1% of their net sales towards marketing and advertising efforts.
What are the financial requirements to become a L&L Hawaiian Barbecue franchisee?
To become a franchisee of L&L Hawaiian Barbecue, you should have a minimum net worth between $500,000 and $1,000,000, with liquid assets ranging from $150,000 to $300,000.
These financial requirements ensure that potential franchisees have the necessary resources to establish and operate a successful L&L Hawaiian Barbecue restaurant.
How much can a L&L Hawaiian Barbecue franchise owner expect to earn?
The average gross sales for a L&L Hawaiian Barbecue franchise are approximately $0.82 million per location. Assuming a 15% operating profit margin, $0.82 million yearly revenue can result in $123,000 EBITDA annually.
Who owns L&L Hawaiian Barbecue?
L&L Hawaiian Barbecue is owned by Eddie Flores Jr. and Johnson Kam, who purchased the original L&L Drive-Inn in 1976. In 2018, Eddie Flores Jr. appointed his daughter, Elisia Flores, as the company’s CEO.
Disclaimer
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