Post #759363 by Limbo Lizard on Fri, Feb 19, 2016 9:34 AM

Initially, I assumed it was a set, because it was such an expansive space. But the level of elaborate detail, and how right they got it, was extraordinary. Notice the wear on the edge of the bar. I began to doubt they'd go to that much trouble (and expense, even) for a couple of scenes in a single episode. So maybe, I thought, they just cleared out most of the seating in an existing place, to make room for the cameras and other equipment. Looking at various pictures, I noticed matching details from the Tonga Hut (I've never been), and thought, that's it!
After looking at more pictures, the Hut doesn't seem to have enough room to clear out that much space. But as was mentioned, they appear to have very specifically mimicked features of the Tonga Hut's decor. That free-standing metal fireplace... that, especially, is what tricked me!

At one point, Sheldon says, "This place is terrific. Why have we never been here before?" I wonder... did they put that much effort into the set, because it will be a recurring hangout, in future episodes? I hope so.