Post #44792 by mig on Sun, Jul 27, 2003 1:16 PM

My first visit to the Conga Lounge was yesterday, and I was quite impressed! The decor was very good-- many tikis, lots of bamboo, etc. (And from what I hear, it's still improving every day-- another patron there told me that the amount of tiki had been significantly increased just since the opening.)

There were a few items of non-tiki decor-- e.g., a sombrero, and a mod scooter album cover-- but these did not detract; it still worked, and worked marvelously. Even the bathroom was decorated; and the owners have plans for the only still-undecorated area, which is the ceiling.

The owners are brothers from South Africa. (Michael-- "congamike" on TikiCentral, and his brother Mano are the two we met.) They have a deep love of "true tiki" (if that can be defined), and they are doing a lot to give an authentic (i.e., non-Buffett) vibe. Examples: great old movies playing on a TV screen, and-- even more importantly-- actual EXOTICA music. (This should please the kids greatly!)

Drinks: although I am not the "expert" that others here on TC are, I was impressed. They have done research into tiki mixology and are well-prepared to make "true" tiki drinks. The "Gilligan's Island" has become a de facto house special, and the one I had treated me right!

Food: although I did not have any, I was told by a good authority that the food is excellent, so I can't wait to try it next time.

Location: as always, a key to a business's success. This location is in a hip and well-traveled district, so hopefully it will bring them success.

A few things I'd do if I ran it: I would glue/cement EVERYTHING down so it wouldn't walk away. I'd also put a big sandwich board out front... and I'd flyer the entire neighborhood. But those are just some minor suggestions... really, I can't find anything to complain about with the Conga Lounge, except that it's far from my house. But that's not their fault. :)

-mig

[ Edited by: mig on 2003-07-27 13:17 ]