Post #380337 by tikitonga on Wed, May 14, 2008 5:58 PM

Tough choice because both are the opposite extremes of Tiki "bar culture" in my opinion. Trader Vics is indeed old school and upscale while FI is newer and more laid back. TV has that sense of history that you can feel as soon as you drive up and leave the car with the valet (valet parking at a "Tiki" establishment? Yes it's true). If you are into Mai Tais, then it's TV hands down. Their standard Mai Tai is great but for a real treat ask for a San Francisco Mai Tai...it's got fresher ingredients and is a bit more tart. Food and appetizers at TV are top notch. Sorry if it sounds like a sales pitch, but the wife and I go to TV every year for our Bdays and Anniversary.

Ironically, we have plans to hit FI tomorrow night....so what do I know?

Whatever you do, don't let anyone talk you into going to the Tonga Room....at least not for drinks! Great place to look at but spend your money at TVs or FIs!!!