Tiki Bars Take Over At Omni Hotels From California To New York
The mysterious cult of tiki bar culture has made a comeback this summer. The thatched bars, wooden carvings, foreboding figures, aloha shirts and mesmerizing tropical drinks are at bars across Omni Hotels & Resorts, from New York to Florida to San Diego.
In June, the Omni San Diego at the Ballpark kicked off their summer popup Tiki Social, complete with poolside DJ and a Polynesian fire dancer. The Hawaiian shirt-clad bartenders mixed island drinks like “Mai Tai Have Another” and “The Tropical Tease” designed by Tiki bar expert Jeff “Beachbum” Berry.
Waitresses brought “pupus” (Hawaiian for appetizers), all part of Omni’s “Tiki Social, Where Every Hour is Happy” program. Non-imbibers can get in on the fun, with non-alcoholic options like the 'Designated Diver' and the 'Dry Tai' available.
Most Omnis will feature a selection of Tiki Social cocktails at their lobby bars, while eleven locations will offer the full immersive Tiki Social experience and eight-drink menu.
But hurry; the Omni’s Tiki Social is only on through Labor Day.
By Michael Goldstein, Contributor