Tiki bars, with their exotic charm and escapist fantasies, have enjoyed a resurgence, captivating cocktail enthusiasts with their potent mix of vibrant aesthetics, complex drinks, and cultural kitsch. These establishments, rooted in mid-20th century Americana and inspired by the far-flung reaches of Polynesia, offer more than just a night out—they provide a portal to a bygone era.
Here, we traverse continents to explore some of the world’s most unique and beloved tiki bars, from hidden gems to high-end luxury experiences.
1. Smuggler’s Cove – San Francisco, USA
Nestled in the bustling heart of San Francisco, Smuggler’s Cove is not just a bar; it’s a museum of maritime piracy, rum-soaked folklore, and tiki culture. The establishment boasts a staggering collection of over 550 types of rum and an extensive menu of both historic and contemporary tiki cocktails. The interior, a labyrinthine three-story ode to all things nautical and mysterious, features traditional thatch and bamboo decor, mermaid figureheads, and even a waterfall. It’s a veritable treasure trove that pays homage to the tiki traditions of the past while forging new ones.
2. Trader Vic’s – Worldwide
With its storied history dating back to 1934, Trader Vic’s set the standard for tiki culture with its inventive Polynesian-inspired concoctions, most famously the Mai Tai, purportedly invented by Vic Bergeron himself in 1944. Today, Trader Vic’s locations can be found around the world, from Emeryville, California, its original location, to cosmopolitan cities like Tokyo and London. Each location offers a unique yet unmistakably lavish escape with its bamboo decor, tribal masks, and wooden carvings, making it a must-visit for those looking to indulge in the roots of tiki culture.
3. The Bamboo Bar – Bangkok, Thailand
At the Mandarin Oriental in Bangkok, The Bamboo Bar offers a luxurious twist on the tiki theme. Known for its sophisticated atmosphere and live jazz performances, this bar serves a selection of tiki cocktails that use premium ingredients and complex flavor profiles. The decor features rich woods, lush greenery, and leather accents, providing an upscale yet adventurous tiki experience that captivates both locals and tourists alike.
4. Beachbum Berry’s Latitude 29 – New Orleans, USA
Latitude 29, founded by Jeff “Beachbum” Berry, is a shrine to the forgotten art of tiki. Berry, a historian and author, has dedicated his life to uncovering and reviving lost tiki cocktail recipes. The bar is nestled in the Bienville House Hotel in New Orleans and offers a menu that blends classic concoctions with modern mixology, alongside a range of Polynesian-inspired dishes. The decor mixes traditional tiki motifs with a touch of New Orleans charm, creating a cozy environment that feels both exotic and familiar.
5. Dirty Dick – Paris, France
In the South Pigalle neighborhood of Paris, Dirty Dick offers a whimsical take on the tiki bar with its kitschy, colorful interior and an extensive list of over 55 tiki cocktails. Originally a hostess bar, the space was transformed into a tiki haven by Scotty Schuder, an American expatriate. Here, patrons can savor meticulously crafted drinks, such as the signature Banana Daiquiri, in an environment that combines French flair with Polynesian kitsch.
6. Hale Pele – Portland, USA
In the heart of Portland, Oregon, Hale Pele is a glowing beacon of tiki tradition. This bar offers a truly immersive experience with its thunderstorms on demand and volcanic eruptions. The menu features both classic and original tiki cocktails, each served with theatrical flair—think drinks served in skull-shaped mugs or garnished with flaming lime shells. The intimate setting, complete with authentic pufferfish lights and a soundtrack of exotica music, makes Hale Pele a paradise for those in search of the tiki’s enchanting escapism.
These tiki bars, scattered across the globe, represent the enduring appeal and evolving nature of tiki culture. They are sanctuaries not just of good cheer but of an art form that combines mixology, hospitality, and design in equal measure. Whether you are a devout enthusiast or a casual participant in the tiki revival, these establishments promise an unforgettable journey into the heart of Polynesia, without ever leaving your barstool.
