Mauka Warriors Luau brings Hawaii’s history to life through the story of King Kamehameha, the hero who united the islands and became a symbol of national pride.
Imu is an indispensable part of traditional Hawaiian cuisine. This underground cooking method, passed down through generations, represents a unique culinary art form rooted in Polynesian heritage. At Mauka Warriors Luau, imu is more than just a cooking technique—it is a vital part of preserving and honoring the ancestral traditions of Polynesian people. Below is an in-depth look at imu and the only fully-operational imu kitchen on Oʻahu, exclusively at Mauka Warriors Luau.
1. What is Imu?
Imu is the ancient Hawaiian method of roasting food underground, using a pit lined with hot volcanic stones. This special technique is traditionally performed during luau feasts, especially to prepare the iconic Kalua Pig. Thanks to this slow cooking process, the meat becomes exceptionally tender, infused with natural smokiness, and retains its full moisture and flavor.
In ancient Polynesian culture, imu was not merely a way to cook—it was a sacred community ritual. Creating an imu meal required the effort of an entire village: men dug the pit, built the fire, and heated the stones, while women prepared the ti leaves, marinated the meat, and organized the traditional ingredients. Each step in the process carried deep meaning—reflecting values of sharing, harmony with nature, and intergenerational connection.
Digging the ground to make an Imu stove
Today, it’s unfortunate that many modern luau events only offer surface-level performances, often omitting the true imu ceremony, the spiritual core of the gathering that happens beneath the ground. But at Mauka Warriors Luau, guests witness a faithful, live recreation of the traditional imu process: from digging the earth and lighting sacred firestones to wrapping the pig in ti leaves and burying it for hours—preserving both the flavor and spiritual essence of the Hawaiian landscape.
You’ll also hear local cultural practitioners share the stories behind every movement—from legends of the fire stones to the symbolic meaning of the imu's opening ceremony. These humble artisans are guardians of heritage, passing down the spirit of their ancestors through the heat of the earth, the curl of smoke, and the unforgettable aroma rising when the imu is revealed.
2. The Imu Process
To prepare the signature Kalua Pig of Hawaii, locals perform the imu ceremony—a natural oven buried beneath the ground. This method requires both technical skill and a deep sense of purpose. As the Polynesian philosophy suggests: cooking is an art, and true art takes time.
The imu process includes:
- Digging the Pit & Heating the Stones: A large, deep hole is dug into the earth. Lava rocks are carefully placed at the bottom and a fire is lit for several hours until the stones glow with intense heat. These will be the core heat source for the entire cooking process.
- Lining with Leaves & Placing the Food: Once the stones are ready, ti leaves or banana leaves are layered over the rocks to act as insulation and moisture barrier. The seasoned pig (or fish, poultry, vegetables) is wrapped tightly in leaves and laid on top. Proper arrangement ensures even cooking and prevents burning.
- Sealing the Pit for Slow Roasting: A second layer of leaves is added to cover the food. Then, the entire pit is sealed with burlap and soil, creating a completely natural, steam-tight oven. The food is left to cook slowly over 6 to 10 hours, absorbing the earthy aroma and developing a tender, juicy texture with a subtle, smoky flavor.
This ancient Hawaiian cooking method is also a vital expression of the islands’ culture and food heritage
3. The Only Live Imu Kitchen on Oʻahu – Only at Mauka Warriors Luau
Mauka Warriors Luau proudly hosts the only live imu kitchen on the island of Oʻahu. Here, guests don’t just eat imu-roasted food—they experience the entire process firsthand. The imu at Mauka Warriors is more than a cooking site—it is a cultural centerpiece, a sacred space where culinary tradition comes alive.
Visitors have the rare opportunity to observe and participate in the imu ritual: from preparing the pig, helping wrap it in leaves, to witnessing its burial in the earth. It's a deep dive into Hawaiian culinary heritage and a chance to connect with the roots of island life.
4. The Unique Flavor of Imu-Roasted Food
Food cooked in an imu has a distinct, earthy aroma and a perfect balance of smoky, savory, and naturally sweet flavors. The Kalua Pig is the star of the show—slow-roasted until the meat is buttery-soft, infused with subtle smokiness, and covered with a slightly crisp, golden layer of skin.
This depth of flavor simply cannot be recreated with modern appliances. It’s not just delicious—it’s unforgettable.
5. Mauka Warriors Luau – Where Tradition Meets the Present
Mauka Warriors Luau is a journey through time, where guests are invited to take part in authentic rituals, learn about Hawaiian history, and feel the heartbeat of Polynesian culture. Through imu cooking, ancient values are passed down—connecting warriors of the past with storytellers of today.
