Aloha, Hawaiian plate lunch: Nalu’s Grill opens in San Clemente, its fourth in Orange County

Aloha vibes have ridden a wave into San Clemente.

Nalu’s Grill – which specializes in soulful seafood and island cuisine – opened its fourth location last week, teaming with local surfboard brand Brawner Boards to give away a free feast to about 200 people who showed up Saturday, Sept. 8 to celebrate the grand opening.

“So many people have come in and said ‘thanks for coming here,’ ” said marketing director Mike Garrett. “The community is stoked.”

Nalu’s first opened in 2002 and other locations include Irvine, Laguna Niguel and Foothill Ranch, which opened over a year ago.

Nalu in Hawaiian translates to “wave,” and through the years the eatery has been a regular staple in the surfing community, dishing up lunches for hungry groms at surf contests and events along the coast.

Popular dishes include the panko-crusted seared ahi, garlic shrimp, chicken or beef plates, served with rice, slaw and mac salad. Options for protein added to salad or veggie plates available.

The island-inspired, fast-casual restaurant is more than just about the food, he said. He said the goal is to help revitalize the “soul of surfing,” and hopes the meals can be a way to teach the next generation on how to eat clean, keep the beaches clean and educate the youth on preserving the culture.

“We want to live it and do what’s right,” he said.