How L&L Hawaiian Barbecue Is Growing To 500 Locations | Chat w/ Elisia Flores

Elisia Flores, president and CEO of L&L Hawaiian Barbecue, joins Shawn Walchef from CREATE Conference in Rancho Palos Verdes to discuss leading the restaurant brand her father, Eddie Flores Jr., helped build into a global franchise. As a second-generation leader, Flores shares why franchisee success comes before corporate growth, how restaurant ownership continues to create opportunities for families pursuing the American dream, and why L&L has grown to 240 locations without losing the aloha spirit that defines the brand. From evaluating technology through the lens of ROI to preserving a family legacy while building the next chapter, Flores offers a candid look at leading one of the restaurant industry's most recognizable franchise brands. Franchisee Success Comes Before Corporate Growth – L&L Hawaiian Barbecue has grown to 240 locations by keeping franchisees at the center of every decision. Flores says the company's role isn't to control operators, but to give entrepreneurs the flexibility, support, and resources they need to build successful businesses in their own communities. The American Dream Still Starts With Restaurant Ownership – As the daughter of immigrants and a second-generation leader, Flores sees restaurant ownership as a pathway to opportunity. From first-generation immigrants to professionals leaving corporate careers, she believes restaurants continue to provide one of the best ways to build wealth, create jobs, and achieve long-term independence. Technology Should Solve Problems, Not Create Them – While AI and restaurant technology continue to evolve, Flores isn't chasing every new platform. L&L focuses on solutions that deliver measurable ROI, choosing long-term technology partners that help franchisees operate more efficiently instead of adding unnecessary complexity. Episode Links L&L Hawaiian Barbecue: https://www.hawaiianbarbecue.com/ L&L Hawaiian Barbecue IG: https://www.instagram.com/llhawaiianbbq/?hl=en L&L Hawaiian Barbecue YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/hawaiianbarbecue L&L Hawaiian Barbecue Tik Tok: https://www.tiktok.com/@llhawaii L&L Hawaiian Barbecue LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/l&l-hawaiian-barbecue/ Elisia Flores: https://www.linkedin.com/in/elisiaflores/ Eddie Flores Jr. Restaurant Influencers Interview: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yL5b91Ghh8k Where to find Cali BBQ MediaVisit our WebsiteFollow Restaurant Technology SubstackFollow us on InstagramFollow us on LinkedInLearn About our Media Services