Post #495782 by Wayfarer on Wed, Nov 25, 2009 9:15 PM

Thanks for the responses. I wasn't sure what I'd get.

But I have about 2 years left in the Navy, currently I'm serving on an isolated tropical island where all the bars are owned by the Navy, so no advice there. Actually the lousy bartending is what drove me to making tiki drinks in the first place, I found I loved it and it kept my thirsty friends amused. This is the kind of island where pineapple/OJ/mixer is the drink du jour. Tasting the rum is like finding the prize in a cracker jack box. Because of this isolation I figured I'd try here to start finding folks who might know a thing or two about starting a tiki bar.

As for my background I am a graphic artist/radio broadcaster who's also dabbled in public affairs and photography (also light soldiering, funny story) so I know a bit about design. So getting the word out and making the place itself memorable as well as signage, menus, etc would pose no problem to me.

When I get out I can lay down roots anywhere, though I have relatives in Palm Springs and the surrounding Coachella Valley and Norfolk is my adopted home. The Wayfarer moniker I use (and might use for the bar) is because I'm transient and without a home to return to. So location for me can be where ever I'd do the best business. Though I am partial to the weather in the desert and I've relatives who've talked about opening a bar out there for years.

Swanky, when you say an all-encompassing theme what do you mean by that? Do you mean music that goes with the decor and maybe a few crazy event nights, like a lumpia eating contest or whoever comes looking the most tiki-ish gets a prize type thing?

Other questions I've had is if a straight up bar that only does drinks is the best way to go or if it is better to also serve some food besides bar food & appetizers would be better. Though food would require a kitchen, an additional investment beyond a microwave.

[ Edited by: Wayfarer 2009-11-25 21:19 ]

[ Edited by: Wayfarer 2009-11-25 21:20 ]