Just What Exactly is a Tiki Bar?

"Tiki" is a generic description of the woodcarvings and stone ornaments used extensively by Pacific islanders.

The concept of Tiki is basically a design aesthetic reflecting the mystery and beauty of exotic cultures and romantic islands. This culture symbolizes an ideal and relaxed way of life.

Today, enterprising businessmen are taking advantage of the desire for how islanders live, when in reality, the Tiki concept does not exist. Even so, the concept has thrived and now, Tiki bars refer to watering holes making use of "Tiki."

The Tiki bar's history

Shortly before the outbreak of World War I, destinations to the South Seas became all the rage. This was the golden age of travel, and well-to-do Americans and Europeans became fascinated with the exploration of exotic islands. Suddenly, capitalists competed with each other in putting up the snazziest bars and nightclubs echoing the widely sought Pacific flavor.

The first Don the Beachcomber restaurant, founded by Ernest Raymond Beaumont Gantt, who later came to be known as Don Beach, opened as soon as the Prohibition was lifted. This was a mere two blocks away from the Seven Seas, the Tiki bar opened by Bob Brooks, another pioneering businessman. Don the Beachcomber employed a lot of furnishings to create the Tiki effect: fishing floats, starfish, idol figures and other exotic artifacts. This establishment was credited with developing the present concept of Tiki bars. Don introduced Tiki into the menus, drinks, and music. Soon enough, Tiki bars mushroomed all over the world.

The fall and rise of Tiki bars

Tiki bars were hottest during the 1960s. The concept even invaded massage parlors, motels, strip clubs and mini-golf clubs. There is even an entire town in Texas built upon the Tiki concept, but as is the way with all fads, Tiki soon faded after flourishing for about thirty years. Rock and roll music replaced exotica and there arose a new culture of lounges, pubs, and rock and roll bars.

In California, Tiki is alive and well in several towns but has been replaced by more modern bars in other places. However, popular culture has always been known to undergo revivals after a cycle, so it is safe to say that Tiki bars may soon make an explosive comeback.

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