What Is Your All-Time Favorite Tiki Mecca? - General Tiki

S Swanky Tiki Socialite Hapa Haole Hideaway, Knoxville, TN Joined: Apr 03, 2002 Posts: 5398	S Swanky Posted posted on Sun, Nov 18, 2007 8:21 AM As much as I love the Mai Kai, for more reasons than any of you will ever know, I still have a tie for number one: Mai Kai and Hala Kahiki. The Mai Kai is fantastic in every way, but, it has to lose points for being in a tropical climate, and Hala Kahiki gains many points for being near Chicago. Chicago, historically was the second mother of the tiki boom. California started, Chicago taught it to everyone else. But, Hala Kahiki is the real inspiration for my home bar. Walking in there through 2 feet of snow is far more the real tiki oasis experience than anything in Florida. And the place is just perfect in mood and lighting, etc. So, I have to urge everyone to be sure and see both. Preferably see Hala Kahiki in winter. My number 2 is now the Aku Tiki Room in Kewaunee Illinois. Really great place that has really strong mood, drinks and design. In May, I am putting together a fantastic old school event there that will be the ideal time to come see the place.

As much as I love the Mai Kai, for more reasons than any of you will ever know, I still have a tie for number one: Mai Kai and Hala Kahiki.

The Mai Kai is fantastic in every way, but, it has to lose points for being in a tropical climate, and Hala Kahiki gains many points for being near Chicago. Chicago, historically was the second mother of the tiki boom. California started, Chicago taught it to everyone else. But, Hala Kahiki is the real inspiration for my home bar. Walking in there through 2 feet of snow is far more the real tiki oasis experience than anything in Florida. And the place is just perfect in mood and lighting, etc.

So, I have to urge everyone to be sure and see both. Preferably see Hala Kahiki in winter.

My number 2 is now the Aku Tiki Room in Kewaunee Illinois. Really great place that has really strong mood, drinks and design. In May, I am putting together a fantastic old school event there that will be the ideal time to come see the place.

Post #344630 by Swanky on Sun, Nov 18, 2007 8:21 AM