Post #758725 by Otto on 02/08/2016

Based on ads run weekly in the Desert Sun newspaper, apparently the Kon Tiki was only open from Nov 1, 1954 (?) to April of 1959 when it became the Hilo Hut
The owners, Neal Olson & Chuck Johnson (originally spelled Johnston on all early ads but consistently spelled Johnson in multiple ads between 1958-59)
Here are ads from 1954, 1957, and 1958

Here is announcement of Hilo Hut April 29, 1959:

OFFICIALLY OPENING I - Hilo Hut. Santos De Jesus, Mrs William Tackett and Morris Solo try out the buffet Although opened late in the winter season, the new restaurant, located at Andreas Road near Indian 'formerly known as the Kon Tiki l will lie operated next season by the well known caterer and managed by his son, Harris Tiie