Tiki Central / General Tiki
The Tiki Times: News and events calendar
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Sat, Sep 5, 2015 12:09 PM
So much news to report in August, it took some time to update ... The Week in Tiki (Aug. 10-23, 2015): Tiki Oasis soars to new heights, plus D23 thrills Disney fans, The Hukilau 2016, more summer news and events August was a cavalcade of Tiki news and events, with thousands gathering in California for Tiki Oasis in San Diego. We have a full report, including a gallery of official photos ... Meanwhile, Disney fans flocked to Anaheim for the D23 Expo. There's some cool news for Tikiphiles, including an upcoming animated movie starring a Polynesian princess and a new Jungle Cruise-themed restaurant ... We also have recaps of the Tahitian Terrace Diamond Luau at Disneyland and the Don the Beachcomber Mai Tai Festival in Hawaii. Event previews include the Southern Surf StompFest, Ohana: Luau by the Sea, Mod-Palm Springs, Tiki Mondays With Miller, and the Rum Renaissance Caribbean Cruise ... There's also more news on The Hukilau welcoming Shag for its 15th anniversary bash in June, including a collectible Rum Barrel mug in honor of The Mai-Kai. Plus there's info on new Tiki bars in Las Vegas (open now) and Toronto (coming soon) ... Our regular features spotlight artist Christine Benjamin; the new album from Tikiyaki Orchestra; the historic Tonga Hut in Los Angeles; and Internet radio site Luxuria Music ... And last but not least, the rum of the week (Koloa Dark) is featured in Kahuna Kevin’s Escape Pod cocktail ... |
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Fri, Sep 11, 2015 10:22 AM
Sad news this week with the passing of artist Stephen Pizzurro, who will forever be known as The Pizz. Stephen Pizzurro, better known in the lowbrow art world as El Pizzo and The Pizz, has died at age 57. The Pizz is considered to be one of the pioneering creators of “cartoon expressionism,” and his influence is felt by an entire generation of artists. The Pizz is also the Artist of the Week, recognizing his contributions to the Tiki art world ... The Pizz was featured on the cover of the Spring 2009 issue of Tiki Magazine, and an article within explores the vast influence mid-century and classic Polynesian Pop had on his work. In the 2009 article, he explained: "I imagine my Tikis are living, cognizant and ambulatory. They have fun … they get funky!" He wowed Tikiphiles with his brilliant mugs for Tiki Farm, but he was equally beloved in many lowbrow scenes, from tattoo and hot-rod culture to comics and underground rock ‘n’ roll. Sadly, the world lost The Pizz to his own demons on Aug. 30. He leaves the world a much less colorful place. The September calendar is chock full of Tiki events, from Chicago to Indianapolis to California. We have previews of the Denver Modernism Show, the California Rum Fest in San Francisco, Fong Fest at Chef Shangri-La near Chicago, the WMNF Birthday Luau in Tampa, the International Tiki Market Place at Don the Beachcomber in Huntington Beach, Makahiki: A Night of Tiki in Indianapolis, and the Dapper Day events at Disney Parks, including a retro slideshow by Charles Phoenix at Disneyland. There’s also news on Tiki Kon losing its host hotel, Disneyland’s Jungle Cruise adding a special Sunrise Safari event, and next year’s Tiki cocktail showdown at the South Beach Wine & Food Festival getting a new venue and host. In addition to The Pizz, our regular features spotlight Milwaukee surf band The Revomatics; vintage Chicago-area restaurant Chef Shangri-La; and online magazine Punch. The rum of the week, Plantation 3 Stars, is featured in two cocktails: Blue Ricardo and the Allspicy Daiquiri. Okole maluna! |
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Tue, Sep 22, 2015 1:06 PM
The Week in Tiki (Sept. 7-20, 2015): Ohana: Luau by the Sea and Mod Palm Springs, plus more event previews The summer may be ending soon, but there’s no shortage of Tiki events, including Ohana: Luau by the Sea in Fort Lauderdale (Oct. 1-3) and Mod Palm Springs in California (Oct. 8-11) coming up. We have extended previews of both, including a closer look at the event mugs ...
There are also a few events left in September, including:
We also have recaps of the recent Fong Fest in Chicago, and Don the Beachcomber’s International Tiki Market Place (which returns on Saturday, Oct. 10). There's also news from the Chicago Area Tiki Tour and a possible Tiki bowling establishment coming to Atlanta ... Regular features honor South Florida’s Cutback Surfband; the Bootlegger Tiki bar in Palm Springs; the Ministry of Rum website; and the late Florida artist Wayne Coombs ... The rum of the week, Coruba Original dark Jamaican, is featured in a vintage Planter’s Punch ... The 1928 recipe is from "Potions of the Caribbean: 500 Years of Tropical Drinks and the People Behind Them" by Jeff “Beachbum” Berry. Okole maluna! |
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Sun, Oct 4, 2015 10:32 PM
The Week in Tiki (Sept. 21-Oct. 4, 2015): The Hukilau passes going on sale, Hulaween is back at The Mai-Kai, Ohana flock to the sea Get ready to book your trip to The Hukilau 2016: Tickets and rooms could be available as early as this week ... The latest news also includes details on Hulaween, The Mai-Kai’s annual Halloween party ... Also in South Florida, Ohana: Luau by the Sea just wrapped up its first annual gathering ... Event previews include Mod-Palm Springs, Mahaloween at Trader Sam’s, and the UK RumFest ... We also look back at a memorial for The Pizz, the Tonga Room’s 70th anniversary, Thee Hot Rod Luau in Huntington Beach, Dapper Day and Tiki Day at Disneyland, and Rome Rumfest ... Regular features honor the artist of the week, Eekum Bookum; Northeast surf band 9th Wave; Kreepy Tiki Lounge in Fort Lauderdale; and the Cocktail Kingdom website ... Cockspur Fine Rum is featured in The Mai-Kai’s Moonkist Coconut ... Okole maluna! |
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Thu, Oct 15, 2015 10:09 PM
The Mai-Kai will host its seventh annual Hulaween party on Oct. 30 with Slip and the Spinouts, a costume contest, drink specials and more ... Check out the full preview, plus photos from past years and more: |
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Tue, Oct 20, 2015 7:19 PM
The Week in Tiki (Oct. 5-18, 2015): Tiki Mondays with Miller 2015 finale, Hulaween at The Mai-Kai, world’s best bars honored This week’s Tiki update has a New York City and Halloween bent. Get the latest on Tiki Mondays with Miller, Hulaween at The Mai-Kai, and find out which Tiki establishments are among the world’s 50 best bars ... We also have details on the future of the iconic mid-century TWA terminal at JFK International Airport, and a recap of Mod-Palm Springs ... Regular features honor master carver and sculptor Gecko; the loungy horror sci-fi sounds of The Jimmy Psycho Experiment; New York City Tiki bar Otto’s Shrunken Head; and the Rated R Cocktails website ... The Rum of the Week, Hamilton 86, is featured in the Guyanese Zombie from the late Tiki bar PKNY ... |
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Tue, Oct 27, 2015 11:09 AM
Breaking news ... Weekend passes are now on sale for The Hukilau 2016, the 15th anniversary of the East Coast’s premiere Tiki weekender coming June 8-12 to the Hyatt Regency Pier 66 hotel and The Mai-Kai restaurant in Fort Lauderdale. For a limited time only, guests can buy 2016 passes at 2015 prices. If you buy your weekend pass now, you’re also guaranteed an opportunity to purchase tickets to several special cocktail parties scheduled for Thursday, June 9, in the 17th floor rotating ballroom at Pier 66: The second Tiki Tower Takeover (featuring Jeff “Beachbum” Berry, Martin Cate, and four more top Tiki bartenders) plus the first-ever Shag’s SkyLounge (join the acclaimed artist in a “live painting”). Those buying the new South Seas Pass will also receive a limited-edition Pier 66 Tower Barrel Mug by Eekum Bookum ... Here's the full story on The Atomic Grog: http://www.slammie.com/atomicgrog/blog/2015/10/26/the-hukilau-2016-passes-going-on-sale-at-2015-prices/ Also check out the official thread on Tiki Central: |
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Tue, Nov 3, 2015 8:53 PM
The Week in Tiki will be a few days late. In the meantime, we posted a recap of Hulaween 2015 at The Mai-Kai ...
The undead get lively at The Mai-Kai’s seventh annual Hulaween party The living dead came out in full force on Halloween Eve at The Mai-Kai in Fort Lauderdale, filling The Molokai bar with creative costumes and partying to the rockabilly sounds of Slip and the Spinouts for the seventh annual Hulaween. See the full story and photo gallery:
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Mon, Nov 9, 2015 8:46 PM
The Week in Tiki (Oct. 19-Nov. 1, 2015): The Hukilau and Wreck Bar news, Halloween recaps, NYC cocktail champ, vintage hotel demolished, and more The Hukilau tops this week’s news with updated info on event passes, Tiki Tower Takeover bartenders, and Marina the Fire Eating Mermaid’s swim shows. On Monday, Nov. 9, organizer Christie “Tiki Kiliki” White announced that the highest level pass had already sold out, and another was getting close. White also revealed two returning participants in the Tiki Tower Takeover, plus the return of Marina the Fire Eating Mermaid in a possibly expanded Wreck Bar. Brian Miller (“Tiki Mondays With Miller”, New York City) and Paul McGee (Lost Lake, Chicago) will be back mixing signature cocktails along with the previously announced Jeff “Beachbum” Berry (Latitude 29, New Orleans) and Martin Cate (Smuggler’s Cove, San Francisco). Tiki Kiliki has also confirmed that Marina the Fire Eating Mermaid (MeduSirena) and her acclaimed swim shows at the nearby B Ocean Resort will once again be included in The Hukilau festivities. Marina reports that the bar will be undergoing a restoration that will return it to its vintage glory, offering even better views of her famous choreographed shows. Two original portholes that were sealed off decades ago will be uncovered as the bar is extended, Marina revealed. October was jam-packed with Halloween events, and we take a look back and some of the biggest from coast to coast ... We also have news on a defiant winner at a Tiki cocktail showdown in New York City ... St. John Fritzell, owner-operator of Fort Defiance in Brooklyn, won The Art of Tiki: A Cocktail Showdown on Saturday, Oct. 17, during the New York City Wine & Food Festival. He edged out such stiff competition as Garret Richard of The Happiest Hour and Joaquin Simo of Pouring Ribbons. Up next: Fritzell will take his talents to South Beach, where he’ll compete Feb. 26 when the The Art of Tiki: A Cocktail Showdown returns to the SOBEWFF. He'll face off against bartenders from The Broken Shaker (Miami Beach), The Mai-Kai (Fort Lauderdale), The Rum Line (Miami Beach), Kreepy Tiki Lounge (Fort Lauderdale), Foundation Tiki Bar (Milwaukee), Porco Lounge and Tiki Room (Cleveland), and The Golden Tiki (Las Vegas). The next featured story: Former Palm Beach Hawaiian Inn meets the wrecking ball A classic mid-century Polynesian-themed hotel that has been on a slow, steady decline for years is finally being put out of its misery by way of a wrecking ball. The Palm Beach Oceanfront Inn – the former Palm Beach Hawaiian Ocean Inn that was featured in Sven Kirsten’s Tiki Pop book and exhibit – is being torn down after sitting vacant for more than a year. We also have quick hits on an exclusive Mai-Kai serigraph, Martin Cate’s new San Francisco bar, UK RumFest, and a new venue for Tiki Kon in Portland ... Regular features spotlight lowbrow artist Pooch; rockabilly band Slip and the Spinouts; The Shameful Tiki Room in Vancouver; and the Shag the Store website ... The Rum of the Week, Appleton Estate 12, is featured in Martin Cate’s Pampanito ... Okole maluna! |
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Sat, Nov 21, 2015 12:26 PM
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Sat, Nov 21, 2015 3:21 PM
Mahalo for the bumps. Now, on with the news ... The Week in Tiki (Nov. 2-15, 2015): The Hukilau and Miami Rum Fest tickets, Makahiki arrives, Wayne Coombs tribute, Tiki bars, galleries and more! Florida tops the latest news with updates on passes and tickets for The Hukilau and Miami Rum Fest ... The Hukilau has announced that all five-day tickets are sold out for the 15th annual Tiki weekender scheduled for June 8-12 at the Hyatt Regency Pier 66 hotel and The Mai-Kai restaurant in Fort Lauderdale. But there are plenty of Aloha (Thursday through Sunday) and Luau (Friday through Sunday) passes available. Tickets are on sale now for the 2016 Miami Rum Renaissance Festival, scheduled for April 15-17 at the Doubletree by Hilton Miami Airport Convention Center. In Florida: Tiki fest launches in Orlando, street named for Wayne Coombs in Cocoa Beach The first annual Makahiki, a Tiki fest and luau in the area surrounding Aku Aku in Orlando, is in full swing today (Saturday, Nov. 21). The event includes live music from The Intoxicators and The Disasternauts, live Tiki carving by Jeff Chouinard of Surf Soul Tiki, hula and fire dancers, a pig roast, a mechanical surfboard, artists and vendors, plus more. Cocoa Beach will honor a legendary artist on Friday, Nov. 27, with the dedication of Wayne Coombs Way, a street behind the Mai Tiki Market area where the late icon carved his famous Tikis until his death in 2012. In Georgia: The Art of Tiki at Trader Vic’s, new Tiki bar opens Instead of rum or cocktails, seminar host Paul Senft of the RumJourney.com blog will turn his attention to The Art of Tiki with a special event tonight (Saturday, Nov. 21) at Trader Vic’s in Atlanta featuring artist Derek Yaniger. Opening without much fanfare in Decatur, a suburb of Atlanta, The SOS Tiki Bar lit its torches on Friday, Nov. 6, catching the attention of Polynesian Pop enthusiasts and enthusiastic locals alike. In Los Angeles: Shag’s new store, Tiki Farm toasts 15 years
The Shag Store empire expanded to West Hollywood with a free grand opening party on Nov. 7 in the swank new Melrose Avenue digs. The ultimate Tiki mug collection is on display through Nov. 29 at La Luz de Jesus Gallery in Los Angeles during the Mondo Tiki show celebrating the 15th anniversary of pioneering manufacturer Tiki Farm. Tiki bars rated among America’s best Several notable Tiki establishments were included in Playboy magazine’s annual ranking of the 20 Best Bars in America: Latitude 29 in New Orleans (Best Traditional Tiki Bar), Lost Lake in Chicago (Best Neighborhood Hangout That Happens to be a Tiki Bar), and Mother of Pearl in New York City (Best Spin on Tiki).
Liquor.com published a comprehensive list of “the 173 bars that matter most – right now.” Tiki and rum bars are well represented, including Latitude 29, Lost Lake, Hale Pele (Portland), The Mai-Kai (Fort Lauderdale), Porco Lounge & Tiki Room (Cleveland), Smuggler’s Cove (San Francisco), Three Dots and a Dash (Chicago), and Tiki-Ti (Los Angeles). Quick Hits ... Cocktail Kingdom is now offering Beachbum Berry’s Tiki Cocktail Picks, a cool new product in its Tiki Collection. Critiki has news on the opening of a new Tiki bowling alley in Hong Kong, plus the closing of Tiki Hideaway in Charlotte, N.C. The Exotic Tiki Island podcast is streaming 48 hours of the Hawaiian War Chant until 3 p.m. on Sunday (Nov. 22). Tiki Brian has selected more than 200 versions of the song. Catch it now at http://mixlr.com/eti-radio-from-exotic-tiki-island-tiki-brian/ We have the results of the CAB Rum Tasting Competition at the fifth annual Caribbean Rum & Beer Festival held Nov. 6-7 in St. Maarten. Los Straitjackets' cover of "Linus and Lucy," the iconic theme music from the "Peanuts" TV specials, will be released on Nov. 27 on an exclusive vinyl album, "The Quality Holiday Revue Live," on Yep Roc Records. It was recorded last year during a sold-out show in Boston on Nick Lowe’s Quality Holiday Revue tour. Also, we have a link to the dates on this year's version of the tour. George Barris, the groundbreaking Southern California custom car designer best known for creating Batman‘s iconic Batmobile and The Munsters hot rods for the classic 1960s TV shows, died of cancer Nov. 5 at age 89. Regular features spotlight lowbrow artist Big Toe; simian surf band The Disasternauts; Foundation Tiki Bar in Milwaukee; and the Tales of the Cocktail website. The Rum of the Week, Clément Select Barrel, is featured in Paul McGee’s Three Dots and a Dash ... Okole maluna! |
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Sun, Dec 6, 2015 11:13 AM
The Week in Tiki (Nov. 16-29, 2015): The Hukilau's Tiki Tower Takeover sold out, Trader Vic's battles critics, Tiki Farm releases 15th anniversary mugs, more!
All Tiki Tower Takeover tickets are taken, 5th bartender announced One of the most anticipated Tiki cocktail events of 2016 is already sold out, a little over a month after tickets went on sale and more than six months before The Hukilau celebrates its 15th anniversary with a five-day celebration in Fort Lauderdale. The second annual Tiki Tower Takeover will be held on June 9 in the revolving 17th floor ballroom atop the historic Pier 66 hotel and will feature five of the country’s top Tiki barmen mixing up signature cocktails. The first Tiki Tower Takeover, held in June 2015, was spearheaded by award-winning author and Tiki bar owner Jeff “Beachbum” Berry (Latitude 29 in New Orleans). Berry and his three brethren return in 2016: Martin Cate (Smuggler’s Cove in San Francisco), Paul McGee (Lost Lake in Chicago), and Brian Miller (Tiki Mondays With Miller in New York City). The Hukilau’s producer and organizer, Christie “Tiki Kiliki” White, has also revealed a fifth top bartender who will be joining the event and setting up shop next to last year’s fab four: St. John Fritzell, owner-operator of Fort Defiance in Brooklyn and host of The Sunken Harbor Club, the bar’s monthly celebration of Polynesian food and drinks. In October, Fritzell beat out an all-star lineup of Big Apple mixologists to win The Art of Tiki: A Cocktail Showdown at the New York City Wine & Food Festival. White will also soon announce the Tiki bar that will be serving the “welcome drink” to guests as they board a private elevator and head up to the exclusive skylounge. In addition to the six cocktails, attendees of the two-hour event (5 to 7 p.m.) will enjoy food and live entertainment while the lounge rotates once every 66 minutes. Other top news: The inside story of Trader Vic’s in Emeryville facing a noise crackdown, plus the release of open editions of Tiki Farm’s 15th anniversary mugs. Also: The Frankie’s Tiki Room limited edition seventh anniversary mugs, designed by Crazy Al Evans, are released. You can find holiday Tiki gift ideas, plus previews of seasonal events in Anaheim, Los Angeles, Huntington Beach and Atlanta ... Quick hits include a new album in the works from from Ìxtahuele, the opening of the B.G. Reynolds Syrups store in Portland, plus several crowd-funding projects ... Regular features spotlight surrealist artist Scott "Flounder" Scheidly; surf guitarist Laramie Dean; Cleveland's Porco Lounge & Tiki Room; and the Vintage Roadside website ... The Rum of the Week, Koloa Gold, is featured in the Unisphere cocktail ... Okole maluna! [ Edited by: Hurricane Hayward 2015-12-06 11:26 ] |
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Thu, Dec 24, 2015 12:06 AM
A little tardy, but chock full if info and worth the wait ... The Week in Tiki (Nov. 30-Dec. 13, 2015): The Mai-Kai anniversary party, The Hukilau updates, Jungle Cruise restaurant at Disney World, Polynesian Resort lights torches, plus more! The Mai-Kai says mahalo with 59% off at Dec. 28 anniversary party The Mai-Kai in Fort Lauderdale is giving back to its loyal fans and followers on Dec. 28 during its annual Mahalopreciation Party. In honor the historic Polynesian restaurant’s 59th anniversary, all guests in The Molokai bar will get 59 percent off most drinks and appetizers starting at 5 p.m. and running all night. The Hukilau updates: First dinner show full, Shag event and hotel near sellout The first dinner show at The Mai-Kai during The Hukilau main event on June 11 is officially sold out, organizer Christie “Tiki Kiliki” White reports. Call The Mai-Kai at (954) 563-3272 to get on a waiting list or to reserve seats at the second or third shows of the evening. The early show usually features special on-stage presentations and entertainment, but White said that next year “there will be a few special things happening” during the second show as well. The third show will likely be a special midnight show. All three shows feature a special performance of the Polynesian Islander Review. Don’t miss out on your chance to celebrate the 60th anniversary of The Mai-Kai at the 15th anniversary of The Hukilau, set for June 8-12, 2016. Jungle Cruise skippers open mess hall to Disney World guests Those skippers on the famously kitschy Jungle Cruise attraction, which opened with both Disneyland (1955) and Disney World (1971), finally have a place to make a little extra cash when they’re not plying the tepid waters of the Magic Kingdom. The Jungle Navigation Co. Ltd. Skipper Canteen is officially open for business in Adventureland on Dec. 16. A soft opening and cast member previews started on Dec. 13.
Torch lighting returns to Polynesian Village Resort, construction continues There have been many milestones in the massive renovation of Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort over the past two years: the unveiling of the new lobby at the Great Ceremonial House, the opening of Trader Sam’s Grog Grotto, and the launch of the Bora Bora Bungalows and new Disney Vacation Club timeshare units. But perhaps the most symbolic moment occurred in November with the return of the resort’s ceremonial torch-lighting ceremony.
Hapa holidays: Festive events, last-minute gifts, exotic tunes The Tiki community came together for a cause on Dec. 18 at the Tonga Hut in Palm Springs for the Caliente Christmas party, which benefitted Toys for Tots and the Palm Springs No Kill Animal Shelter. You can re-live the Dec. 12 holiday edition of the International Tiki Market Place at Don the Beachcomber in Huntington Beach by listening to the latest Zen Tiki Lounge podcast. As usual, Forbidden Island in Alameda is chock full of events, including many unique holiday happenings. On the East Coast, Boston’s Brother Cleve (the longtime musician, DJ, record producer, writer and connoisseur of cocktails) DJ’d during a special four-day event Dec. 17-20 at King Tai Bar in Brooklyn. Tiki Brian and Exotic Tiki Island are doubling our pleasure for the holidays with a festive seasonal podcast, plus a special Christmas broadcast on ETI Radio running from 9 a.m. on Christmas Eve through Christmas Day. Also: Holiday music and Last-minute gift ideas, including custom coconut mugs now available at Beachbum Berry’s Latitude 29 and coming soon to Cocktail Kingdom ... Quick sips: Fwaygo Rum recipes, Shag goes ape, FOM raises $11,500, new Tiki bars thriving
South Florida Distillers is celebrating its award-winning Fwaygo Rum with “Fifty Days of Fwaygo” (#50DaysofFWAYGO) on YouTube and Facebook, a series of videos that feature a new cocktail recipe every day through the end of the year.
Shag the Store has released a special limited edition “Chimp” Aloha shirt and halter dress designed by Shag as a tribute to everyone’s favorite groovy primates. The Fraternal Order Of Moai has announced a donation of $11,500 to the Easter Island Foundation as the result of money raised during Ohana: Luau at the Lake in Lake George, N.Y., and Ohana: Luau by the Sea in Fort Lauderdale earlier this year. Plus, we have an update on Tiki bars in Seattle, Tulsa, Sacramento, Toronto, and Decatur, Ga. Coming in 2016: New Tiki bars in Pittsburgh, San Diego, Los Angeles, and more! Details in The Week in Tiki’s year-end edition. Regular features spotlight the master ceramists known as Munktiki; instrumental legends The Ventures; new Las Vegas bar The Golden Tiki; and Professor Cocktail’s website. The Rum of the Week, Seven Tiki spiced, is featured in two seasonal cocktails: The Devil’s Island Daiquiri from Jeff “Beachbum” Berry ... ... and Hapa Holidaze from The Atomic Grog: Mele kalikimaka! The Week in Tiki * Mai-Kai Cocktail Guide [ Edited by: Hurricane Hayward 2015-12-24 00:13 ] |
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Thu, Dec 31, 2015 7:30 PM
The Week in Tiki (Dec. 14-27, 2015): Preview new Tiki bars coming in 2016, festive New Year’s events, a new Kon-Tiki voyage, plus more! After an exciting year that saw many new Tiki bars open across North America, lots more are in store for 2016. We have a preview what’s coming, plus get a quick New Year’s event guide ... 2016 will welcome new Tiki bars to Pittsburgh, Portland (Maine), Los Angeles, San Diego, San Francisco and Seattle
We have news on a new Kon-Tiki sailing the South Pacific, plus a traditional Hawaiian vessel traveling the globe ...
Quick sips include the Flor de Caña rum controversy, Santas hanging ten in Cocoa Beach, plus help for an ailing Laramie Dean. Regular features spotlight velvet painting master Edgar Leeteg; Tiki party band Ding Dong Devils; Trader Sam’s Enchanted Tiki Bar at the Disneyland Hotel; and the Cocktail Wonk website ... The Rum of the Week, El Dorado 5, is featured in the Demerara Flip from The Atomic Grog ... Okole maluna and happy new year! |
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Mon, Jan 11, 2016 6:50 PM
The Year in Tiki 2015: Legends lost, but revival becomes renaissance with new bars, music, art and more It was a year of both sadness and elation, when some legends were lost but the world of Tiki made great strides. As we mourned the deaths in 2015 of musicians Robert Drasnin and Ernie Menehune, plus artist The Pizz, we were bolstered by the fact that a new generation of artists and musicians are taking inspiration from the past and creating an incredible new body of work. And Tiki culture was embraced and celebrated across the country at sold-out events and a whole new wave of bars. After our first year of The Week in Tiki updates, The Atomic Grog takes a look back at the memorable news of 2015. The year 2015 marked a turning point in the 21st century Tiki scene. If there was ever a time to declare that the “revival” had become a full-blown renaissance, it’s now. It’s been building for some years now, but last year seemed to be the tipping point. Just look at the evidence in our favorite topics: Events, music, art, cocktails, and culture. Then, take a chronological look back at the biggest news of the year, month by month: Finally, find out our selections for the top artist, band, bar, website, rum, and cocktail of 2015 in our first Year in Tiki Awards: |
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Mon, Jan 18, 2016 8:45 PM
Just posted: A special report on The Hukilau 2016 ... The Hukilau: June 8-12, 2016, at the Hyatt Regency Pier 66 and The Mai-Kai restaurant in Fort Lauderdale. Featuring Shag, Jeff “Beachbum” Berry, Martin Cate, Paul McGee, Brian Miller, St. John Fritzell, Marina the Fire Eating Mermaid, Tikiyaki Orchestra, Jason Lee and the R.I.P. Tides, The Intoxicators, Skinny Jimmy Stingray, The Quiet Villagers, The Disasternauts, Otto von Stroheim, Paul Roe, Tim “Swanky” Glazner, Humuhumu, Tom Fowner, Will Anders, Jeff Chouinard, Angie Pontani, Kitten de Ville, Lila Starlet, plus more. |
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The Below Decks
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Mon, Jan 25, 2016 11:11 AM
Sorry I didn't post about this sooner. Great seminar this past Sunday, 2/24/16, at the (beautiful!) Majestic in downtown Los Angeles for the "Golden State of Cocktails." The seminar I attended was called "Tiki Cocktails & Culture in a Modern Setting" led by Martin Cate. Incredible historical lesson in tiki cocktails from the beginning to today which included three cocktails, including a mai tai. Mr. Cate was wonderful, informative and funny, of course, and he's got me very excited about his upcoming book, to be released soon. Here are few photos from the event: |
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Mon, Jan 25, 2016 11:21 AM
Mahalo for the news and photos! I know Martin is there, but I couldn't find much about the event online. I may use your info and a photo on the blog. Is that OK? Reply or send me a personal message if you'd like to be credited a certain way. |
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The Below Decks
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Mon, Jan 25, 2016 11:55 AM
Thanks. No special crediting necessary. Love your blog and check it frequently. Great work. Thanks! |
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Tue, Jan 26, 2016 9:25 PM
Good observation bigbrotiki. The Hala Kahiki on River Road is inexplicably overlooked these days. So too is Chef Shangri-La on 26th Street. Look it up people, and search for a "Dr. Fong" among its drinks. Two drinks there, and you can't stand up. They also sell real leis among the idol-talisman fountains. These two places deserve just as much attention as The Mai-Kai and Tiki-Ti. All the nouveau-Tiki bars popping up all over the place (Hale Pele in Oregon, Lei Low in Texas, Latitude 29 in New Orleans, Kreepy Tiki in Ft. Lauderdale, The Golden Tiki in Las Vegas etc. etc.) owe much to these classic originals, which, yes, DO FEATURE the Fu Manchu mug. I think our current crop of so-called 'Tiki followers' sometimes get lost in the ever-changing world of cultural appropriation. Pico |
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Wed, Jan 27, 2016 11:42 PM
The Week in Tiki (Jan. 1-15, 2016): New Tikis to rise at The Mai-Kai, Lost Lake honored, Smuggler’s Cove book release, Tiki in South Beach, plus more! The new year is off to a roaring start with comprehensive coverage of the carving and planned installation of two giant Tikis at The Mai-Kai during The Hukilau ...
The Mai-Kai in Fort Lauderdale is renowned for the massive Tiki carvings that grace its grounds, some dating back a half-century. But in recent years, many have sadly succumbed to the elements. Every year, it seems, you’ll find another tribute mug to one of The Mai-Kai’s fallen Tikis. In June, however, there will be a welcome new sight at the 59-year-old historic landmark. Two monumental Tiki carvings standing up to 10 feet tall will be unveiled in the restaurant’s outdoor tropical garden during The Hukilau, the annual Polynesian Pop celebration that draws enthusiasts from around the world. Marking the project happen were The Hukilau’s Christie “Tiki Kiliki” White and master carver Will Anders, plus several other people whose contributions were indispensable. Anders began work on the Tikis in November, when two gigantic logs estimated to weigh 4,000 to 6,000 pounds each arrived at his Fort Lauderdale home. By early January, when White snapped the photo above, the first Tiki was already taking shape. She later announced the project on Facebook, calling it a dream come true. “I have to say, when you see a man of 119 pounds carving a 4,000-pound tree into such an amazing work of art, it humbles you,” she wrote.
After less than a year in operation, acclaimed neo-Tiki bar Lost Lake in Chicago added another award to its growing list of achievements when it was named Cocktail Bar of the Year for 2016 by Imbibe magazine. “It isn’t just about Tiki drinks. The Lost Lake experience combines the best in hospitality and drinks with fun and relaxing escapist vibes,” the magazine says. ” The mix of classics and modern drinks hold to the expected tropical framework, but many of the new recipes tip the scales of the genre.”
Rum and Tiki cocktail trailblazer Martin Cate has confirmed that his long-awaited book, Smuggler’s Cove: Exotic Cocktails, Rum and the Cult of Tiki, will be released via 10 Speed Press on June 7. “You’ll find us all over the U.S. this summer taking our baby on tour,” Cate posted on Facebook. This will include multiple book signings (at The Mai-Kai and Pier 66) during The Hukilau in Fort Lauderdale on June 8-12.
If you put off buying tickets to the second annual Tiki cocktail event coming to the South Beach Wine & Food Festival in Febuary, you’ll probably miss out. The SoBeFest website lists “The Art of Tiki: A Cocktail Showdown,” set for Feb. 26 at the Surfcomber Hotel, as sold out. We could credit the growing popularity of Tiki culture and/or the popularity of the event’s host, Guy Fieri of Food Network. Let’s hope it’s more of the former and less of the latter. As it turns out, Tiki’s return to the SoBeWFF will coincide with the arrival of a full-fledged Tiki establishment to Miami Beach, home of such legendary mid-century mainstays as The Castaways and The Luau. But in true South Beach style, this is not your father’s Tiki bar. Naked Tiki is a new concept from celebrity chef Ralph Pagano (above), joining his upscale Naked Taco concept on Miami Beach. The new Polynesian-themed restaurant and bar will open in The Stiles Hotel (at 11th Street and Collins Avenue) on Feb. 20, according to an industry source. Pagano and Naked Taco will also be participating in The Art of Tiki at the the SoBeWFF, so the synergy is definitely intentional. We also preview an art and rum event in Fort Lauderdale, plus Tiki Caliente in Palm Springs. Quick sips include The Broken Shaker opening an outpost in Los Angeles, Marina the Fire Eating Mermaid heating up Las Vegas (see above), and the introduction of Rum Minute videos. Regular features spotlight lowbrow legend Robert Williams; Indianapolis surf band The Madeira; The Rum Line cocktail bar on Miami Beach (above); and the Imbibe website. The Rum of the Week, R.L. Seale’s 10-year-old from Barbados, is featured in the Winter Daiquiri by Mindy Kucan of Hale Pele. Okole maluna! |
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Sun, Feb 7, 2016 3:06 PM
The Week in Tiki (Jan. 16-31, 2016): The Mai-Kai mugs and history book, The Art of Tiki updates, Shag events and art, plus more! Exciting news this week for fans of The Mai-Kai with the release of new Tiki mugs and pre-orders for a long-awaited history book ... As promised, the new mugs inspired by The Mai-Kai in Fort Lauderdale have been released to the general public by California-based artist Tiki Diablo. The mug is available in three different glazes for $75 each and can be purchased online via Tiki Diablo’s store. They should also be available in the restaurant’s gift shop, The Mai-Kai Trading Post, within the next week. He’ll also be crafting the official mug for the upcoming book on The Mai-Kai by Tim “Swanky” Glazner ... The book, Mai-Kai: History and Mystery of the Iconic Tiki Restaurant, now has an official release date: July 28. The 176-page hardcover book (11 inches wide by 8 1/2 inches high) is being released by Schiffer Publishing. It’s already available for pre-order online via Barnes & Noble. Glazner is planning a release party and special events at The Mai-Kai in August, followed by a West Coast tour and book-signing at Tiki Oasis. News on The Art of Tiki event in South Beach includes a new rum sponsor and the return of last year’s champ. ... ‘The Art of Tiki’ to feature Rhum Barbancourt, Brian Miller More details are emerging about the sold-out Tiki cocktail competition set for Feb. 26 at the South Beach Wine & Food Festival. “The Art of Tiki: A Cocktail Showdown” will feature nine of the country’s best Tiki bars and bartenders competing for cash prizes (and bragging rights) in a festive event hosted by Food Network’s Guy Fieri. The second annual event will also include food stations with small tropical-themed bites created by acclaimed chefs from South Florida and beyond. Guests will sample the food and cocktails, then vote for their favorite drink. The cocktail competitors all submitted recipes in advance and had them approved by the event organizers. In a change from last year, the spirits sponsor is Rhum Barbancourt, so all the drinks must include at least one of the brand’s distinctive sugarcane-based rhums from Haiti. In addition, there will be a special cocktail booth at the event that won’t feature a contestant. Instead, you’ll find last year’s winner, Brian Miller (of “Tiki Mondays With Miller” in New York City), mixing up special Rhum Barbancourt drinks on behalf of the sponsor. Modernism Week in Palm Springs salutes Tiki with Shag party The 11th annual Modernism Week in Palm Springs celebrates the influence of Tiki culture with a special cocktail party hosted by Shag, “Palm Springs Polynesia: Then & Now,” on Friday, Feb. 12. Guests will join artist Josh Agle (aka Shag) in toasting the influence of Tiki culture in Palm Springs modernism since the 1950s. Shag was also in the spotlight in January with yet another special release party, plus a new solo exhibit. Event recaps include Tiki Mondays With Miller, two Doug Horne mug release parties, and a Martin Cate cocktail seminar. Upcoming events previewed include a Steve Crane tribute at Smuggler’s Cove in San Francisco, the Sweet Hollywaiians in Hawaii, the Polynesian Cultural Festival in South Florida, and a new cocktail seminar at Trader Vic’s Atlanta. In other news, a tree crashes the party at VenTiki, Bacardi and Havana Club duke it out over the U.S. rum market, and Wicked Dolphin releases a new Brewer’s Series rum in collaboration with Tampa’s Cigar City Brewing. Regular features spotlight eclectic artist Sam Gambino; groundbreaking exotica ensemble Mr. Ho’s Orchestrotica; Brooklyn bar Fort Defiance; and online group Poly Hai. The Rum of the Week, Ron Matusalem Gran Reserva 15, is featured in the Pineapple Express cocktail. Aloha! |
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Sun, Feb 7, 2016 3:34 PM
Very informative Hayward. Thanks for taking the time to keep us updated. The new Mai Kai mugs are great, I already got mine. |
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Mon, Feb 22, 2016 9:36 AM
Just posted: An exhaustive preview of The Art of Tiki: A Cocktail Showdown, coming this Friday to the South Beach Wine & Food Festival ... Top Tiki mixologists take their talents to South Beach Wine & Food Festival for Cocktail Showdown If Tiki mixology truly is an art, then this week’s tropical drink showdown in Miami Beach is the modern cocktail world’s equivalent of an epic battle between the descendants of Leonardo da Vinci, Michelangelo and Raphael. After all, Tiki cocktails are in the midst of a second Renaissance. “The Art of Tiki: A Cocktail Showdown” at the South Beach Wine & Food Festival unleashes nine of the country’s most popular and exotic drinking establishments in a festive fete hosted by celebrity chef Guy Fieri, on Friday, Feb. 26. Competing for bragging rights and cash prizes are bartenders from The Broken Shaker (Miami Beach), Fort Defiance (Brooklyn), Foundation Tiki Bar (Milwaukee), The Golden Tiki (Las Vegas), Kreepy Tiki Lounge (Fort Lauderdale), The Mai-Kai (Fort Lauderdale), Porco Lounge & Tiki Room (Cleveland), The Rum Line (Miami Beach), and Slowly Shirley at The Happiest Hour (New York City).
Spurred by the 21st century revival of tropical drinks and Tiki culture, The Art of Tiki: A Cocktail Showdown made its debut at last year’s SoBeWFF. More than 700 people packed the Shore Club for the event, hosted by celebrity chef Emeril Lagasse and featuring an expert panel of judges that included Tiki cocktail authors and bar owners Jeff “Beachbum” Berry and Martin Cate. Brian Miller (of “Tiki Mondays With Miller” in New York City) won the Judge’s Choice award, while Miami Beach’s The Broken Shaker earned the People’s Choice award. Other competitors, including 2016 returnees The Mai-Kai and The Rum Line, cranked out hundreds of cocktails for the thirsty guests, who also enjoyed small bites from an array of acclaimed chefs. The successful event was reprised Oct. 17 during the New York City Wine & Food Festival, with a few Big Apple twists. Held on a rooftop with temperatures near freezing, it was far from a tropical oasis. Lagasse returned as host, Miller joined Berry as a judge, and NYC bartenders dominated the competition. St. John Frizell (Fort Defiance) edged out Garret Richard (The Happiest Hour) with a festive frozen drink. Both Frizell and Richard will be competing this week in South Beach. The successful event was reprised Oct. 17 during the New York City Wine & Food Festival, with a few Big Apple twists. Held on a rooftop with temperatures near freezing, it was far from a tropical oasis. Lagasse returned as host, Miller joined Berry as a judge, and NYC bartenders dominated the competition. St. John Frizell (Fort Defiance) edged out Garret Richard (The Happiest Hour) with a festive frozen drink. Both Frizell and Richard will be competing this week in South Beach. The real stars of the show are the cocktails and the food. And, of course, the rum. There’s a new exclusive rum sponosor this year, the venerable Rhum Barbancourt from Haiti. The nine competitors, set up in tricked-out bar spaces around the Surfcomber pool, will be featuring at least one of four Barbancourt products (White Rhum, Pango Rhum, 3 Star, and 5 Star) in their drinks. In addition, Rhum Barbancourt will pop up in the hotel’s existing pool bar to offer samples of its distinctive, sugarcane-based rhums. Rhum Barbancourt is taking its sponsorship seriously, teaming up with last year’s champ Brian Miller for the occasion. “Brian’s skill and creativity truly stands out. He embodies Tiki,” said Rhum Barbancourt spokeswoman Jenna Dillon. “Once we found out that he was not part of the judges panel, we decided it would be the perfect opportunity for him to showcase 5 Star in one of his original cocktails. You will not be disappointed.” Over the past year, Barbancourt has been a proud sponsor of Tiki Mondays with Miller, the mixologist’s quarterly Tiki party at Pouring Ribbons in New York City. Like last year, there will be both Judges Choice and People’s Choice winners. Joining Fieri at the judge’s table are event organizer Francesco Lafranconi (executive director of mixology and spirits educator for Southern Wine and Spirits of Nevada), Julie Reiner (owner of New York City’s influential Clover Club); and Laine Doss (food and spirits writer for Miami New Times). Meet the mixologists, preview the competition: Plus, we serve up a couple tasty cocktail recipes to get you in the mood for The Art of Tiki 2016: Brian Miller's Pain Reliever (see above) and Cesar’s Rum Punch, a classic featuring Rhum Barbancourt. Okole maluna! |
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Wed, Mar 2, 2016 6:10 PM
Sorry, I neglected to post the results of Friday's Tiki cocktail showdown: The Broken Shaker keeps Tiki title in Miami Beach A hometown favorite took home the top prize at The Art of Tiki: A Cocktail Showdown at the South Beach Wine & Food Festival on Friday, Feb. 26, while an enthusiastic bar team that traveled more than a thousand miles also came away a winner.
The Judges Choice award for best cocktail was awarded to The Broken Shaker and bartenders Gui Jaroschy and Randy Perez for their crafty Sweet Micky. Hosted by Food Network’s Guy Fieri, the event featured nine of the country’s most acclaimed Tiki bars facing off during a festive event at the Surfcomber hotel on South Beach.
Some 700 guests enjoyed the many excellent cocktails and cast their own votes for the People’s Choice award, which went to Cleveland’s Porco Lounge & Tiki Room. The entire Porco staff (18 people) made the trip to SoBeWFF, cheering their mixologists to victory with their Alchemy Hour cocktail. The event also featured many top chefs from South Florida serving up Tiki-themed small bites in the spirit of the festival, one of the largest of its kind in the country.
Full recap and photos coming soon. |
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Wed, Mar 2, 2016 6:32 PM
The Week in Tiki (Feb. 1-15, 2016): Aloha to 5 new Tiki bars across the U.S., Shag at Modernism Week, Plantation Pineapple rum, plus more! Catching up on news from the first half of February ... New Tiki bars open in Texas, Maine, Pittsburgh, Seattle and Miami Beach It was a banner year for Tiki in 2015 with an unprecedented number of high-profile bars opening across the country. It’s too early to know if 2016 will come close to the quality level of new establishments such as Lost Lake, Trader Sam’s Grog Grotto and The Golden Tiki , but the number of openings could easily top last year. And the variety is astounding, from a classic rum den in frigid Maine to the world’s first vegan Tiki bar in Seattle. Already open as of mid-February:
Rhum in Portland, Maine: A tribute to classic Tiki bars as well as the craft and romance of rum, this full-service restaurant has already made a splash in the heart of winter.
No Bones Beach Club in Seattle: Easily the most distinctive of the new offerings is the world’s first vegan Tiki bar and restaurant.
Next: New Tiki bars in San Francisco, San Diego, Washington, D.C., and Milwaukee. Get more details in the next Week in Tiki update. Shag helps Modernism Week toast legacy of Palm Springs
Modernism Week took over Palm Springs for its 11th annual celebration of mid-century architecture and design with 12 days of events running from Feb. 11 to 21. Artist Shag helped kick off the event with two high-profile parties that showcased Tiki culture and his influential artwork. Quick sips include:
Regular features spotlight California artist Michelle Bickford; Milwaukee surf band The Exotics; New York City craft cocktail bars The Happiest Hour and Slowly Shirley; and Tiki mug collecting website Ooga-Mooga. The Rum of the Week, Plantation Pineapple Stiggins’ Fancy, is featured in an original Atomic Grog cocktail, Kilauea Iki. Okole maluna! |
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Fri, Mar 4, 2016 7:02 PM
Breaking news on The Hukilau ... The Hukilau updates: Raiders of the Lost Tiki Culture symposium, new sponsors, Pier 66 hotel news In honor of The Hukilau’s 15th year and the 60th anniversary of The Mai-Kai, event co-founder/organizer Christie “Tiki Kiliki” White has assembled some of the top names in the Tiki revival for special events and symposiums that promise to educate as well as entertain. On March 3, she announced a first-of-its-kind Tiki event, a groundbreaking gathering of some of the biggest names in the modern revival. Tickets are on sale now for “Raiders of the Lost Tiki Culture”, a freewheeling panel discussion on Saturday, June 11, moderated by yours truly and featuring Jeff “Beachbum” Berry, Otto von Stroheim, Humuhumu, Martin Cate, Crazy Al Evans, and Tiki Kiliki herself. The godfather of the Tiki revival, Sven Kirsten, will participate via Skype. “We would not be celebrating today if it weren’t for these people,” Tiki Kiliki said of her colleagues on the panel. It’s just $15 for this very special event, which will follow von Stroheim’s “2001: A Tiki Odyssey” symposium at 1 p.m. in the Panorama Ballroom at the Pier 66 hotel. I’ll be quizzing the panelists about their place in the Tiki pantheon, and the audience will also have an opportunity to ask questions. A special cocktail is also included in the price of admission. Those also attending von Stroheim’s symposium will receive priority seating. Buy tickets now: http://thehukilau.com/2016/buy-tickets/ More beverage sponsors on tap Tiki Kiliki has also announced additional sponsors who will be providing tasty product samples to guests throughout The Hukilau. Puerto Rico’s venerable Don Q and the Caribbean rums from Kenny Chesney’s Blue Chair Bay Rum will join the previously announced Flor de Caña (Nicaragua) and the Caribbean spiced navy rum from Sailor Jerry. Sapporo Beer from Japan has also joined the eclectic lineup that also includes Hendrick’s gin, Reyka vodka, and Leyenda del Milagro tequila. More sponsors are being sought, Tiki Kiliki said Pier 66 property expected to sell for $200 million Concerns were raised recently when it was announced that the owner of the Pier 66 hotel and marina has put the prime real estate on the market. The property, which is owned by the Blackstone Group of New York, will not necessarily retain the Hyatt brand and is approved for additional mixed-use development, according to a report in Fort Lauderdale’s Sun-Sentinel. Tiki Kiliki said hotel officials expect the sale to be completed by the time The Hukilau arrives in June, but it won’t affect the event. She has a contract for The Hukilau to stay at the hotel through 2017, she said. The new owner would have the option of signing an agreement with any hospitality company or go independent, according to a story in the Fort Lauderdale Daily. The sale of the iconic 384-room hotel is being handled by real estate and investment firm CBRE Hotels, which expects it to fetch around $200 million, the Sun-Sentinel story said. The market value is $77.5 million, but a “highly competitive environment” is expected to drive up the price, according to a CBRE senior executive. If a sale is made, the new owner would take over without a brand or management firm, the Sun-Sentinel said. The agreement with Hyatt is due to expire this year. The site has been approved for 58 new luxury residential units in two 11-story towers with more than 30,000 square feet of retail and office space, CBRE officials told the Sun-Sentinel. The marina, one of the largest in Florida, is also considered to be a key selling point. The lucrative Fort Lauderdale Boat Show is held nearby at the Bahia Mar resort. But, at least in the short term, it’s Tiki Kiliki’s understanding that the existing facilities will stay in place. “It will stay as a hotel,” she said. The tower’s Pier Top Ballroom is the site of The Hukilau’s two signature, sold-out events on Thursday, June 9: Shag’s SkyLounge, a “Martini meet and mingle” with the acclaimed California artist; and the Tiki Tower Takeover cocktail party, a one-of-a-kind event featuring signature drinks from top Tiki barmen Jeff “Beachbum” Berry, Martin Cate, Paul McGee, Brian Miller, and St. John Frizell. Rooms are close to selling out, Tiki Kiliki reports. It’s advised that you book a room now to ensure your spot at Pier 66: |
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Sat, Mar 12, 2016 9:19 PM
It was worth the wait: Here's the full story on the epic cocktail showdown at the South Beach Wine & Food Festival, including two new recipes from the competing bars ... The Atomic Grog’s ratings: See reviews and ingredients for all the competing cocktails ... Exclusive Cocktail recipes: The Broken Shaker’s Sweet Micky and The Mai-Kai’s Pupule Punch ... Check out the gallery of 30 photos from the event ... |
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Mon, Apr 4, 2016 3:48 PM
Lots of catching up to do ... The Week in Tiki (Feb. 16-29, 2016): Rum and Tiki event roundup, new Tiki bars in D.C., S.F., photos and event recaps We have lots of news from February on upcoming spring and summer events: Miami Rum Renaissance Festival, Tiki Caliente, Tiki Kon, and Hot Rod Hula Hop. Tiki bars continue to open across the country – from Washington, D.C., (Archipelago) to San Francisco (Pagan Idol) – with more in the works. Event recaps include The Art of Tiki: A Cocktail Showdown at the South Beach Wine & Food Festival, Naked Tiki’s grand opening in South Beach, and another Modernism Week party with Shag. Ralph Pagano is bringing a taste of Polynesia to South Beach with the opening of his new restaurant and bar, Naked Tiki. During the Feb. 20 grand opening party at the historic Stiles Hotel, the acclaimed chef’s full range of flavors was on display. Pagano’s decadent and creative dishes were the highlight ... Modernism Week in Palm Springs, the 11th annual celebration of mid-century architecture and design that ran from Feb. 11 to 21, had its biggest year ever. There were a record 77,500 attendees, an increase of more than 30 percent from last year. Organizers said the festival generated an estimated $28.6 million in revenue for local businesses, with more than $1 million going directly back to local organizations, another record.
Quick sips include a James Beard nomination for Chicago’s Lost Lake, the death of Trader Vic’s son, a new study on Easter Islanders, and a new Tiki cartoon. Regular features spotlight South Florida artist Tom Fowner; exotica legend Arthur Lyman; Houston Tiki bar Lei Low; and the Surf Guitar 101 website. The Rum of the Week, Flor de Caña Grand Reserve 7, is featured in a storied cocktail, the Hotel Nacional Special. We also have an updated list of upcoming events for the rest of the year, both across the U.S. and throughout the world ... Aloha! |
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Fri, Apr 8, 2016 9:42 AM
Week in Tiki (March 1-15, 2016): Trader Vic’s Portland closes, The Hukilau and more event updates Some sad news out of Portland with the unexpected closing of Trader Vic’s. Meanwhile in South Florida, The Hukilau announces an exciting new symposium: "Raiders of the Lost Tiki Culture." Fans of The Mai-Kai will want to be sure to attend the symposium “The Mai-Kai: History, Mystery and Adventure” by Tim “Swanky” Glazner at Pier 66 on Friday, June 10, at 2 p.m. Swanky reports that he’ll put a big emphasis in his presentation on the history and origins of the iconic Mystery Drink, including a look at the exotic and alluring servers who deliver it to guests. He’ll be joined by Marina the Fire Eating Mermaid, who will serve the ceremonial bowl to a lucky winner of a raffle. “You’ll hear the in-depth story of how the drink came to be, famous people who helped it along and famous and historical women who have served in the role of Mystery Girl, plus lots more teasers from the book,” Swanky posted on Facebook and wrote on his blog. Just in time for the upcoming Miami Rum Renaissance Festival (April 15-17), the latest edition of Rob’s Rum Guide is hot off the presses and available for anyone looking for a comprehensive look at the best cane spirits. The handy, pocket-sized guide, now in its ninth edition, features tasting notes on more than 700 rums. Other event updates feature Tiki Fest in the Pacific Northwest, Ohana: Luau at the Lake, and Tiki Kon. Quick sips include a Tiki home design show, a new FOM chapter in Atlanta, a space-Tiki lounge in L.A., and a Tiki speakeasy in NYC. Regular features spotlight lowbrow art legend Von Franco; sizzling San Diego surf band Jason Lee and the R.I.P. Tides; and the Luau, a historic restaurant from Miami Beach’s heyday. Learn about rum at the website of the week, RumJourney.com, before sampling the rum and cocktail of the week: Don Q Cristal and Val’s Daiquiri from New York City’s End of the Century. Okole maluna! |
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Fri, Apr 8, 2016 10:18 AM
Special news report ... The Hukilau guests to take a Tiki Road Trip; new Shag merchandise in the works If the idea of a cross-country road trip to five Tiki bars in five different states seems daunting, The Hukilau will make it easy for you during the 15th annual gathering of Polynesian Pop enthusiasts June 8-12 in Fort Lauderdale. During the event’s Friday afternoon festivities, guests will have the opportunity to sip cocktails and chat up the bar staff from five current and upcoming Tiki establishments spread across the Southeast, East and Midwest. The Tiki Road Trip Pool Party will include cocktails from four well-known tropical drink destinations: Porco Lounge & Tiki Room (Cleveland), Foundation Tiki Bar (Milwaukee), Aku Aku (Orlando), plus The Happiest Hour and Slowly Shirley (New York City). Also joining the party will be Cooking Channel star Jim Stacy, who will be offering up a sneak preview of his upcoming Tiki bar in Atlanta, the Barnacled Mermaid. Also on hand will be James Teitelbaum, whose seminal 2003 book, Tiki Road Trip, inspired the party (as well as many actual trips). Tickets for the Tiki Road Trip Pool Party are available now for just $20 for weekend passholders, $49 for non-passholders. It will run from noon to 4 p.m. in the courtyard surrounding the main pool at the host hotel, the Hyatt Regency Pier 66 in Fort Lauderdale. The lineup of bars for the party includes three who competed Feb. 26 at The Art of Tiki: A Cocktail Showdown at the South Beach Wine & Food Festival, including People’s Choice award winner Porco. The blog also features a full rundown of the participants. Just added to the Sunday schedule: A screening of "Korla The Movie," a documentary film about eccentric and influential musician Korla Pandit (1921-1998), will be held during the finale at The Mai-Kai. List of sponsor rums grows to eight: Rhum Barbancourt, Gubba Rum, Rhum Clèment and Florida Mermaid Rum have been added. They join Flor de Caña, Sailor Jerry, Blue Chair Bay and Don Q. Sneak peek: Shag glassware, more merchandise in the works Both Mai-Tai glasses and Zombie glasses are in the works featuring Shag’s homage to some of the distinctive tikis (and shrunken head) at The Mai-Kai. Shag artwork will also appear on designer T-shirts as well as beach and bar towels, two new items that have never been offered before. Another special new item this year, courtesy of sponsor Royer, are custom swizzle sticks, also designed by Shag. The 2016 pendant will be carved by Crazy Al Evans and produced by Perry Drake. It "honors the giant Barney West moai carving still standing tall at The Mai-Kai," co-founder/organizer, Christie "Tiki Kiliki" White said. John Mulder and Eekum Bookum are also working on two mugs: The Tower Barrel Mug, which will be available only to South Seas passholders. And the official event mug, which will be made available to all guests for purchase. What's the design? "It's something you can find at The Mai-Kai," Tiki Kiliki said, offering no other clues. A merchandise pre-sale will be announced soon, Tiki Kiliki said, so keep an eye out on the Facebook page for announcements. Official merch page: http://thehukilau.com/2016/official-souvenirs/ The Week in Tiki * Mai-Kai Cocktail Guide [ Edited by: Hurricane Hayward 2016-04-08 11:50 ] |
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Fri, Apr 8, 2016 10:21 AM
Just announced: Stay tuned for full details. |
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Sun, Apr 10, 2016 6:49 AM
The Atomic Grog celebrates its fifth anniversary with a special cocktail party in The Molokai lounge at The Mai-Kai featuring live instrumental surf music from Skinny Jimmy Stingray, drink specials, giveaways, and more. The party runs from 6 to 10 p.m. Skinny Jimmy will play three solo sets: 7 p.m., 8 p.m. and 9 p.m. In between sets, Jimmy and Hurricane Hayward will spin their favorite instro surf, exotica and retro tunes. They'll also preview The Hukilau 2016 with music from the artists performing at the June 8-12 event. There will also be a Mai-Kai trivia contest with the winners receiving four-day Aloha Passes for The Hukilau, along with perhaps some other goodies. Stay tuned for details. Drink specials: Happy hour runs from 4:30 to 7 p.m. In addtion, the K.O. Cooler and Tahitian Breeze are the regular Saturday specials (half-price all night). In a nod to The Atomic Grog, the Yeoman's Grog will also be half-price all night. And as a bonus for fans of The Atomic Grog's Okole Maluna Society, a special "lost cocktail" will be available (between 6 and 7 p.m. only): the Demerara Float. This classic drink from the original 1956 menu packs a punch with two Demerara rums, including a floater of 151.
Facebook event: |
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Thu, Apr 14, 2016 11:32 AM
The latest post ... Miami festival specializes in education, but reminds us that ‘rum is fun’ The eighth annual Miami Rum Renaissance Festival comes at a pivotal time for the rum industry. As the popularity of cane spirits continues to surge, new challenges loom on the horizon. Unbridled growth has churned up issues surrounding what some consider secrecy and deception regarding age statements and additives, specifically sugar. Meanwhile, everyone is anxious about the potential opening of the marketplace in Cuba, one of the world’s oldest and most highly regarded rum producers. But while these serious topics will likely be discussed and debated at the April 15-17 event and its surrounding parties, the overarching theme remains simple: “Rum is fun!” Why else would more than 10,000 people flock to the DoubleTree Hilton Miami Airport Convention Center to sample hundreds of products, new and old, while enjoying seminars and special industry events that make this one of the year’s most talked-about spirits festivals. The Miami Rum Festival and International Trade Expo runs from 1 p.m. to 6 p.m. all three days, taking over the 50,000-square-foot exhibition hall as exhibitors show off products from around the world. Admission ($75 per day or $125 for a three-day pass) gets you access to the “grand tastings” featuring samples of more than a hundred rums, plus a diverse selection of educational (and entertaining) seminars. If you’re seeking additional fun, there’s also live music and food, plus island lifestyle vendors. See the full story: Seminars: From rum distillation to appreciation As usual, an impressive lineup of experts has been announced to give festival attendees an opportunity to drill down into the details of rum production, mixology and more. Seminars take place in conference rooms on the second floor of the convention center (enter via the escalators next to the food court). [See map] These intimate gatherings give guests easy access to exclusive first-hand knowledge, but be sure to get there on time to assure yourself a seat. More on the seminars: Rum appreciation starts early with party at The Mai-Kai Dozens of Miami Rum Festival judges, VIPs and locals flocked to The Mai-Kai in Fort Lauderdale on Tuesday to kick off a long week of “rum is fun” get-togethers. For the members of RumXP: The International Rum Expert Panel, it was a chance to unwind after the first day of blind tastings. For most in attendance, it was an opportunity to reconnect with friends from across the globe.
Among those spotted enjoying the festivities were owner Martin Cate and Rebecca Cate from Smuggler’s Cove in San Francisco; owner Suzanne Long from Longitude in Oakland; manager Marie King from Tonga Hut in Los Angeles; master blender Bryan Davis from Lost Spirits Distillery in California; Cocktail Wonk blogger Matt Pietrek from Seattle; Boy Drinks World bitters creator Ram Udwin from San Diego; South Carolina blogger Scott French (aka The Rum Trader); Washington, D.C., author Ian Williams; California industry veteran Forrest Cokely; and many more.
The event was sponsored by the new Rational Spirits distillery, who picked up the tab for the guests to attend the dinner show and also provided complimentary Santeria Rum cocktails. Santeria is an exciting new rum created in association with the revolutionary Lost Spirits Distillery in California. Named for the mysterious Caribbean religion, Santeria is a “dunder pit style” Jamaican rum that clocks in at 92 proof and contains all the hallmarks of a funky pot still rum from the Caribbean island. What’s unusual is the rum is actually created in a matter of days, not years, by Bryan Davis of Lost Spirits using a high-tech system that accelerates the aging process. Is it voodoo? You’ll have to taste it to believe it. Check out the Santero’s Elixir recipe and more: Okole maluna! |
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Sat, Apr 16, 2016 11:04 AM
Another new blog on the Miami Rum Renaissance Festival: In preparation for this weekend's grand tastings, I posted a full recap of the 2015 festival, including my favorite rums and cocktails ... Miami Rum Festival boldly explores the next frontier of cane spirits If there was an unofficial theme of the 2015 Miami Rum Renaissance Festival, held April 17-19 at the Doubletree by Hilton Miami Airport Convention Center, it was the impressive innovation and continuing commitment to quality from a new wave of craft rum producers from around the world. In a year when some major players were absent, the young guns definitely picked up the slack and presented products fit for any rum connoisseur.
The festival was less about the big brands flexing their muscle and more about the boutique labels showing off their innovation and commitment to craft. This is the typical scenario at the annual Rum XP Awards, but it’s now overflowing to the convention floor, where consumers had the opportunity to see firsthand what the critics and judges have long known. There's also a photo gallery: And a link to all of last year's award-winners ... Plus, there's a bonus recipe for the cocktail I created in the seminar "How to Elevate Your Home Bar," hosted by members of the Gumbo Limbo chapter of the Fraternal Order of Moai. It's a tribute to the FOM, The Mai-Kai, the Barney West moai that still stands outside, and the wedding of Mike and Chelsea (which fell during the rum fest).
Okole maluna! |
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Sat, Apr 16, 2016 11:05 AM
Hot off the presses, here are the winners announced yesterday at the Miami Rum Renaissance Festival ... 2016 RumXP Award Winners and Consumer Rum Jury Awards
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Fri, Apr 29, 2016 10:29 AM
Mahalo to everyone who's supported us for the past 5 years. We hope to see you tomorrow night. Here's the full event preview ... |
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Fri, Apr 29, 2016 10:54 AM
Week in Tiki (March 16-31, 2016): Lost Lake fire and more Tiki bar news, event previews, Lemon Hart rum returning? Late March was punctuated by upheaval in the Tiki bar world, including a fire at Lost Lake in Chicago and the confirmed closing of Trader Vic’s in Portland. There's also news on the upcoming transformation of Kreepy Tiki Lounge in Fort Lauderdale, and special recognition for the owner of Psycho Suzi’s Motor Lounge in Minneapolis.
We also have updates on the upcoming Pacific Seas in Los Angeles and False Idol in San Diego. There's news on the opening of The Hatch at Union Market Tustin in Southern California, plus plans for a "Tiki-themed" resort north of Portland, Ore., and a rum distillery and Tiki bar at the Wharf in Washington, D.C.
Event previews include The Atomic Grog’s fifth anniversary party, the annual Tiki Luau & Pig Roast at Three Dots and a Dash in Chicago, Ohana: Luau at the Lake in upstate New York, and Tiki Kon in Portland, Ore. In rum news, we investigate the rumored return of Lemon Hart 151, the release of Single Barrel Fwaygo, a tour of Jamaica’s famous distilleries, and this weekend's Midwest Rum Festival. Quick sips include Thor joining the Tiki Farm team, a new bar at Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort, a new Tiki-flavored pulp novella, and the aborted end of a re-creation of the voyage of the Kon-Tiki.
Regular features spotlight legendary carver Milan Guanko; longtime Tiki entertainer King Kukulele; the historic Tiki bar La Mariana Sailing Club in Honolulu; and the video series Rum Minute. The rum the week, Sailor Jerry, is featured in the Wicked Wahine cocktail. Okole maluna! |
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Sun, May 1, 2016 2:56 PM
Photos and a full recap of The Atomic Grog's fifth anniversary party last night at The Mai-Kai are up on the blog ... |
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Mon, May 9, 2016 8:19 PM
Week in Tiki (April 1-15, 2016): The Hukilau, Tiki Caliente and more upcoming events; Miami fest’s award-winning rums; Tiki bar openings and closings, and more! THE HUKILAU: Tiki Road Trip announced, Pier 66 and The Mai-Kai sold out, new rum sponsors, and more! TIKI CALIENTE: Summer season’s first event nears sellout MORE UPCOMING EVENTS: Vintage Tiki Weekend in Wildwood, Shag at Disneyland, Dick Dale on tour RUM NEWS: Koloa, Plantation and Don Q dominate awards at eighth annual Miami festival TIKI BAR NEWS: Wauwatiki opens, Naked Tiki closes, The Wreck Bar expands, The Golden Tiki serves up new mugs Regular features spotlight tattoo artist and historian Paul Roe; exotic California musician Voodoo Organist; the flagship Trader Vic’s location in Emeryville, Calif.; and The Rum Trader blog. The rum of the week, Clément V.S.O.P., is featured in the Broken Storm cocktail. Okole maluna! |
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Wed, May 18, 2016 7:13 PM
Catching up on all the latest news on The Hukilau: High Tide party announced, rum sponsor rundown, merchandise preview with photos! The East Coast’s longest-running and largest Tiki-themed weekender continues to add special events, merchandise and rum sponsors with less than a month remaining before throngs of retro-loving Tikiphiles descend on Fort Lauderdale. The latest major addition is the The Hukilau’s High Tide, presented by Rhum Barbancourt and taking place during the Friday night festivities at the host Pier 66 hotel.
An overlay to the live performances in the waterfront Panorama Ballroom, High Tide is a special event celebrating the high water mark of the weekend and featuring Rhum Barbancourt cocktails by swashbuckling New York City bartender Brian Miller, plus Polynesian small bites from award-winning Atlanta-based celebrity chef Jim Stacy. High Tide takes place from 8 p.m. until 1 a.m. during the live performances by an eclectic lineup of bands (Jason Lee and the R.I.P. Tides, Tikiyaki Orchestra, The Intoxicators) and burlesque/retro entertainers (Angie Pontani, Kitten Deville, Marina the Fire Eating Mermaid, Lila Starlet). Miller, an accomplished Big Apple bartender and brand ambassador, is host of the city’s most celebrated Tiki cocktail event, Tiki Mondays With Miller. He’ll be bringing many of his motley crew members with him to The Hukilau to help him with the Rhum Barbancourt pop-up bar, including Ryan “Corporal Captain” Liloia, Jelani “Swabble” Johnson, and Garret “Dr. Funk” Richard. They’ll be pouring four different Tiki cocktails featuring Rhum Barbancourt, a venerable spirit from Haiti that will have a high profile at this year’s event. Miller issued a missive from his pirate’s lair promising “an assortment of temptresses, rogues and scoundrels.” His captain’s orders: “Tortuga ain’t got nuthin on Tiki Mondays With Miller at The Hukilau.” Expanding list of sponsors includes 13 rums! Find out where you can taste them all Rums will have two dedicated locations Thursday though Saturday at the Tiki Treasures Bazaar. “Pouring Sponsors” will have booths all three days in the Atrium outside the Crystal Ballroom in the main tower building at Pier 66. Six brands (Rhum Barbancourt, Flor de Caña, Blue Chair Bay, Ron Diplomatico, Don Q, and Koloa) will be pouring special cocktails along with rum samples during these hours: Thursday, June 9, 5:30-10 p.m.; Friday, June 10, 3-7 p.m.; and Saturday, June 11, noon-4 p.m. Inside the 7,500-square-foot ballroom you’ll find the Rum Shack, offering tastings and special presentations by brands (including Sailor Jerry, Rhum Clèment, Appleton, Santeria, and Florida Mermaid) on specific days and times to be announced. All tastings at the Bazaar are complimentary with a weekend of daily pass. On Saturday, when the marketplace is open to the public, tasting wristbands will cost just $10 for those without tickets.
A few non-spirits sponsors will also be featured at The Hukilau: Martin Cate, owner of acclaimed San Francisco rum and Tiki haven Smuggler’s Cove, will sign copies of his new book, Smuggler’s Cove: Exotic Cocktails, Rum and the Cult of Tiki, at The Mai-Kai during the pre-party on Wednesday, June 8, from 7:30 to 9:30 p.m. Indiana’s Royer Corp., a leading producer of custom-designed swizzle sticks since 1970, has created The Hukilau’s official 2016 swizzle. Designed by Shag, the colorful cocktail accompaniment features The Hukilau logo on one one side and the artist’s logo on the other Exclusive recipe: Brian Miller’s Haitian Frolic featuring Rhum Barbancourt The Hukilau merchandise preview: Event mugs, Shag-designed items go on sale May 25
For updates on the merchandise, keep an eye on The Hukilau website and Facebook page. |
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Tue, May 24, 2016 7:32 PM
The Mai-Kai welcomes King Kai A new 10-foot-tall Tiki, carved by South Florida's Will Anders, was dedicated during a special ceremony on Sunday, May 22. Photos by The Atomic Grog.
More photos over on the main Mai-Kai thread: http://www.tikicentral.com/viewtopic.php?topic=10334&forum=2&start=last&326 and also in this Facebook gallery: https://www.facebook.com/atomicgrog/photos/?tab=album&album_id=1090162001050304 More on Will Anders' work here: |
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Wed, May 25, 2016 9:57 AM
Can't wait to see King Kai in person. Well done to all involved, especially Will! |
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Sun, May 29, 2016 12:45 PM
The Mai-Kai's new trio of Tikis Florida artists Will Anders, Tom Fowner and Jeff Chouinard have carved three new Tikis for The Mai-Kai's porte-cochère to greet guests upon their arrival at the historic restaurant. Thanks to The Hukilau's Christie "Tiki Kiliki" White for spearheading the project. They were installed on May 28-29, 2016.
More photos over on the main Mai-Kai thread ... http://www.tikicentral.com/viewtopic.php?topic=10334&forum=2&start=last&331 And also this Facebook gallery ... https://www.facebook.com/atomicgrog/photos/?tab=album&album_id=1092882324111605 |
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Sun, May 29, 2016 1:15 PM
Very cool! Thanks for the updates. |
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Wed, Jun 1, 2016 9:26 PM
More updates on The Hukilau ... The official mug and pendant are now on sale for passholders: http://thehukilau.com/2016/souvenirs/ Also, there are now 15 rum sponsors offering free samples and cocktails! More info on the blog ... |
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Mon, Jun 6, 2016 10:20 PM
Lots of catching up to do, lots of news from April ... Week in Tiki (April 16-30, 2016): New Beachbum Berry glassware, ‘Sippin’ Safari’ 10-year anniversary edition; plus event and Tiki bar news, more! Beachbum Berry’s Sippin’ Safari, the underrated classic 2007 cocktail book that helped set the stage for today’s robust revival of Tiki bars across the country, will be re-released in the fall as a 10-year anniversary special edition, the author confirmed. Former screenwriter Jeff “Beachbum” Berry’s fourth book was his first full-color, story-driven guide to the history of tropical mixology. Meanwhile, some cool new glassware was added to the Beachbum Berry barware collection on the Cocktail Kingdom website: A coconut mug featuring the Beachbum Berry logo, and Beachbum Berry Zombie Glasses.
Upcoming event news includes Tiki by the Sea, Ohana: Luau At The Lake, Tiki Kon, Southern Surf Stomp, and the Surf Guitar 101 Convention.
April’s highlights include Miami Rum Festival, The Atomic Grog’s fifth anniversary party at The Mai-Kai, the Bacardi cocktail competition and many other events across the country, including the Tiki-Ti's 55th anniversary, Atlanta Trader Vic's 40th anniversary, and Forbidden Island's 10th anniversary We also have Tiki bar news from Chicago’s Lost Lake, San Francisco’s Smuggler’s Cove, plus a new “urban Tiki” concept in Brooklyn. Regular features spotlight San Diego artist Clee Sobieski; mysterious exotica pioneer Korla Pandit; and the influential Chicago location in the defunct Don the Beachcomber restaurant chain. All of the above have a connection to The Hukilau this week, along with ... The website of the week is home of the upcoming book Mai-Kai: History & Mystery of the Iconic Tiki Restaurant. Our rum of the week, Ron Diplomático Reserva, is featured in La Guildive by Martin Cate, a cocktail from his new book Smuggler’s Cove: Exotic Cocktails, Rum and the Cult of Tiki. Also check out our initial review ... Smuggler’s Cove book sets a new standard for Tiki in the 21st century Comprehensive, colorful, and full of so much information it may make your head spin (especially when sampling the many potent cocktail recipes), Smuggler’s Cove: Exotic Cocktails, Rum and the Cult of Tiki is essential reading for anyone with a passionate interest in the Tiki revival and its spectacular cocktails. Written by Martin Cate, with assistance from wife Rebecca Cate, Smuggler’s Cove: Exotic Cocktails, Rum and the Cult of Tiki is the story of how this Tiki power couple rose to prominence and ended up opening one of the world most acclaimed rum bars in San Francisco. But it’s so much more than just the story of a bar. At 352 pages and hard-bound like a college textbook, it could be considered the new bible for home enthusiasts and bartenders alike. But I’ll bet you’ve never read a textbook this fun. More on The Atomic Grog: http://www.slammie.com/atomicgrog/blog/2016/06/06/week-in-tiki-april-16-30-2016-new-beachbum-berry-glassware-sippin-safari-10-year-anniversary-edition-plus-event-and-tiki-bar-news-more/#cocktail |