Post #583313 by JOHN-O on Mon, Apr 4, 2011 9:51 AM

Well it wasn't closure for me Bigbro. As least not closure as in "seen it, done it, let's move on". It was more of a discovery.

Yes I will admit to being disappointed in initially not seeing some partial 1930's Polynesian glory. That however was a Poly-Pop Pipe dream (that's my new Tiki buzzword).

As you know, the 1930's were an interesting period for Los Angeles. That's when a whole glamorous nightclub scene existed to service the free-spending Hollywood crowd. Think Coconut Grove, Trocadero, Mocambo, Ciro's, and the original Don's. I have to believe the Zamboanga was part of that scene.

All of those original places are dust but the Zamboanga's building still remains. Not only that but you still have the opportunity to have a drink where the original Jungle Room used to be, sit at table in a spot where Hollywood stars might have, listen to vintage jazz being performed on a stage where music was played 80 years ago, and take a pee in the same urinal that Clark Gable or Howard Hughes might have used (ha, ha). The 1930's ghosts are still there and that surviving bamboo door was just icing on the cake.

Tony invited us for Monday live Jazz nights where people are encouraged to "dress to impress". I'll argue that's a lot closer to a Pre-Tiki historical reenactment than the drunken Tiki Revival beach party that exists today.

Yes, I know that suburban Tikiphiles might be hesitant with the building's urban location and infringing on what they might perceive as a locals' scene. I have learned however in my many urban expeditions, treat the place and people with respect and you'll be treated with respect.

I'll be back. :)

[ Edited by: JOHN-O 2011-04-04 11:18 ]