Savoring the Flavors of the Islands: Kau Kau Brings Hawaiian Comfort Food to DC

In a city known for its diverse culinary landscape, the arrival of Kau Kau, a takeout-only plate lunch and dinner ghost kitchen, is a welcome addition for those craving a taste of Hawaiian comfort food. Launched by the team behind the popular TaKorean, Kau Kau is bringing the flavors of the islands to the nation's capital, offering a menu that celebrates the rich culinary traditions of Hawaii.

Bringing the Aloha Spirit to the East Coast

A Passion for Hawaiian Cuisine

The story behind Kau Kau is one of personal connection and a desire to share the flavors of a beloved home. TaKorean founder Mike Lenard, who had moved to Hawaii a few years ago, was inspired by his wife's native Hawaiian roots and the vibrant food culture of the islands. With his wife taking over her family's helicopter business in Maui, Lenard saw an opportunity to bring a taste of his new home back to the East Coast, where he still maintains a presence with TaKorean.

Expanding the Culinary Landscape of DC

While poke shops have become increasingly popular in the DC area, the availability of authentic Hawaiian comfort food has been limited. Kau Kau aims to fill this gap, offering a menu that showcases the diverse and comforting dishes that have long been a staple of Hawaiian cuisine. From the iconic loco moco to the savory kalua pork, Kau Kau is introducing Washingtonians to the flavors that have nourished generations of islanders.

Honoring Hawaiian Culinary Traditions

The name Kau Kau, which means "food, meal, or to eat" in Hawaiian Pidgin, reflects the team's commitment to preserving and sharing the rich culinary heritage of the islands. The menu features a carefully curated selection of classic Hawaiian dishes, each prepared with the same attention to detail and authenticity that one would expect in a Hawaiian home kitchen.

Fostering a Sense of Community

Beyond just serving delicious food, Kau Kau is also dedicated to supporting the Maui community. A portion of the sales from the ghost kitchen will be donated to Lahaina Strong, a local organization that is helping the community rebuild after the devastating fires that swept through the area last year. This commitment to giving back not only aligns with the spirit of Hawaiian hospitality but also reinforces Kau Kau's role as a bridge between the islands and the nation's capital.

Expanding the Reach of TaKorean

The launch of Kau Kau is also a strategic move for the TaKorean team, as they navigate the evolving landscape of the restaurant industry. With the addition of the Hawaiian-inspired ghost kitchen, TaKorean is diversifying its offerings and exploring new avenues for growth, all while staying true to its commitment to providing high-quality, flavorful cuisine.

Delivering Authentic Flavors to Your Doorstep

Kau Kau's menu is a celebration of the diverse flavors that make Hawaiian cuisine so beloved. Customers can indulge in classic dishes like kalua pork, loco moco, and chicken teriyaki, all served with the traditional accompaniments of creamy mac salad, white rice, and a refreshing iceberg lettuce salad. For those craving a taste of the islands, Kau Kau also offers Spam musubi, Korean-style cucumber salad, and a lomi tomato salad, providing a well-rounded culinary experience.

Convenience and Accessibility

Kau Kau's takeout-only model and delivery options through popular platforms like DoorDash, Uber Eats, and Grubhub make it easy for Washingtonians to enjoy the flavors of Hawaii without leaving the comfort of their homes. The ghost kitchen's partnership with the TaKorean storefront in Navy Yard also ensures that the food is prepared with the same level of care and attention to detail that has made TaKorean a beloved local favorite.

A Culinary Journey to the Islands

With the launch of Kau Kau, the team behind TaKorean is not only expanding their culinary offerings but also introducing Washingtonians to the rich and diverse flavors of Hawaiian cuisine. By honoring the traditions and techniques of the islands, Kau Kau is creating a unique dining experience that transports customers to the warm, welcoming atmosphere of a Hawaiian plate lunch or dinner. Whether you're a longtime fan of Hawaiian food or simply curious to explore new culinary horizons, Kau Kau is a must-try destination for anyone seeking a taste of the aloha spirit in the nation's capital.