Tiki
Also known as: tropical, Polynesian pop
A cocktail and aesthetic movement inspired by romanticized Polynesian themes, featuring complex tropical drinks with multiple rums and exotic ingredients.
Tiki represents both a cocktail style and a broader cultural aesthetic that has captivated drinkers since the 1930s. These elaborate rum drinks and their Polynesian-inspired environments offer transportive escapism in a glass. The tiki movement began when Ernest Raymond Beaumont Gantt, later known as Don the Beachcomber, opened his namesake Hollywood bar in 1933. He created complex rum drinks with exotic names served in themed surroundings that promised tropical escape during the Depression. Victor Bergeron, trading as Trader Vic, soon followed with his own competing empire. Classic tiki drinks share several characteristics. Multiple rums are common - blending Jamaican, Puerto Rican, and Demerara rums creates complexity no single rum achieves. Fresh citrus is essential, typically lime. Specialty ingredients like orgeat (almond syrup), falernum (spiced lime syrup), and various tropical juices add layers of flavor. The Zombie, reportedly created by Don the Beachcomber, exemplifies tiki complexity. The original recipe includes three different rums, lime juice, grapefruit juice, cinnamon syrup, falernum, Angostura bitters, grenadine, and a float of overproof rum. These drinks are serious cocktails despite their festive presentation. The Mai Tai, created by Trader Vic in 1944, remains the most famous tiki cocktail. Aged rum, orange curacao, orgeat, and lime juice create a balanced, sophisticated drink that belies its party reputation. Quality ingredients reveal the Mai Tai as a true classic. Tiki experienced decline from the 1970s through 1990s as kitschy imitations with artificial ingredients replaced the originals. The craft cocktail revival restored tiki to respectability. Modern tiki bars honor original recipes while expanding the repertoire with new creations. Tiki culture extends beyond drinks to encompass decor, music, and atmosphere. Carved tikis, thatched elements, tropical plants, and exotica music create immersive environments. The experience matters as much as the drink. Making authentic tiki drinks at home requires investment in ingredients. Orgeat, falernum, multiple rum styles, and fresh citrus are essential. The complexity rewards effort - properly made tiki drinks offer experiences unavailable anywhere else.
💡 Pro Tips
- Multiple rum styles create complexity no single rum achieves
- Fresh juice is essential - never use bottled lime juice
- Orgeat and falernum are worth seeking out or making
- Elaborate garnishes are part of the tiki experience
⚠️ Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Using bottled sour mix instead of fresh juice
- Substituting one rum when recipes call for multiple types
- Skipping specialty ingredients like orgeat
- Underestimating alcohol content - tiki drinks are strong
