Tiki bars, once nearly forgotten, are experiencing a vibrant resurgence, combining historical charm with contemporary flavors. This revival, rooted in 1930s Hollywood, has captivated a new generation of cocktail enthusiasts.
From Prohibition to Pop Culture
The tiki bar phenomenon began with Don the Beachcomber in early 1930s Hollywood. Founded by Donn Beach, the bar offered immersive tropical settings and exotic cocktails, attracting stars like Charlie Chaplin and Marlene Dietrich. Its success sparked a nationwide craze.
Victor Bergeron opened Trader Vic's in Oakland, further cementing tiki's place in American culture. By the late 1970s, however, the craze waned due to artificial ingredients and shifting cultural perspectives.
Revivalists Rekindle the Flame
The tiki bar revival owes much to Jeff “Beachbum” Berry, who, throughout the 1990s and 2000s, researched vintage recipes and tiki culture. Berry published several books and opened Latitude 29 in New Orleans, reigniting interest in authentic tiki experiences.
Another key figure is Ray Buhen of Tiki-Ti in East Hollywood. Despite his secretive nature, his influence remains significant in the tiki movement.
Modern Tiki: A Fresh Take
Today, tiki bars like Sunken Harbor Club in Brooklyn showcase the immersive settings that made the genre popular. According to Garret Richard, “Ideally, when you walk into a tiki bar, it’s like walking onto a movie set.”
Contemporary bars explore new ingredients and spirits, moving beyond traditional rum-based drinks to include gin, whiskey, and tequila, appealing to modern palates.
A New Era for Tiki
While tiki's past is intertwined with colonial imagery, the revival focuses on creating inclusive, imaginative spaces. Bars like Smuggler’s Cove in San Francisco and others across the U.S. offer rich experiences that transport guests to other worlds.
As this resurgence continues, the allure of tiki bars lies in the escapism they provide, offering patrons both history and innovation in every sip.
Source: https://www.vogue.com/article/tiki-bar-revival
