Tuesday, April 5

               The Tiki Lounge’s origins go back to California where Don Beach (born Ernest Gantt from New Orleans), opened a lounge after prohibition near Hollywood Boulevard decorated with items he had found scavenging the beach (nets, shells, palms) so as to bring a Polynesian feel to drinking and dining.  He named the place Don the Beachcomber.  Years later many World War Two veterans who had been to the Polynesian islands while serving, welcomed the style and it spread across the country.  Don opened another one in the then relatively unknown Waikiki Beach.  The torches, carved totems and coconut shells were added to the décor.  Don invented the Mai Tai and Zombie along with 82 other drinks.  Rum was the preferred base because it was the cheapest then.  

So now is a  good time to strum your ukulele in your little grass shack and sip the beverage below the umbrella tickling your nose.