Post #557567 by abstractiki on Sun, Oct 3, 2010 8:09 AM

Uncle Trav, it's one on my favorite things to! Urban Archeology is not only fun but it provides a public service to the community. I have received many letters from "non-Tiki people" wanting information on this or that or just wanting to talk nostalgic about their favorite old restaurant. So many times when I have mentioned the Islander to people they get a big smile and they light up with fond memories running through their head.

Last week I got this letter in the mail;

"Back in 1975, I married a man from San Bruno, Ca. - who took my family one time to a Tiki sort of restaurant in San Mateo. They served drinks called Side Winders. In a big brandy snifter type glass. He died last month and I found a picture at this restaurant that a photographer - who walked around the restaurant - took of our whole family. I can't remember the name of the place. But when I saw your write-up's here, I thought it looks the same, the chairs, etc.
Someone in the family told me they thought it was the Tiki Room in San Mateo, but your website mentions the name Castaway. Do you know ?"

Well i new right away it was most likely the Castaway or the Lanai. I found a Menu for the Lanai and spotted the Sidewinder on it. Then tracked down a bunch of pictures from the place and sent them all to her. She was so happy.