Most mixologists tend to stick with their familiar drinks — Manhattans, old fashioneds, Negronis, etc. — but Tiki-bar culture, on the other hand, is a wide world of its own waiting to be explored.
With lavishly decorated interiors and extravagant cocktail presentations, Tiki culture is based on the mythology of the Māori, the indigenous people of the South Pacific and New Zealand. According to Māori tradition, Tiki was the first man created by the god of birds and fish, Tāne. Today, Tiki bars celebrate Polynesian tradition with over-the-top tropical flair.
The next time you’re ready to float off to island time, have a drink at one of these Tiki bars in NoVA and DC a shot.
Coco B’s
Pastel, posh, and surreal. That’s the world of Coco B’s. Don’t forget your appetite because the menu features Tiki bar food and freshly rolled sushi, with housemade cocktail recipes that are undeniably delicious. Try the Tropical Tease, a tropical libation with coconut rum, vodka, and orange and pineapple juices, served in a novelty cup. 2854 Wilson Blvd., Ste. B, Arlington
Tiki on 18th
This Adams Morgan Tiki hangout is perfect for after-work drinks and has a cocktail menu the size of a tome. A summertime favorite is Ciara’s Caribeno, made with Ten to One rum, coconut water, passionfruit liqueur, and lime. The bar also offers large-format cocktails for groups of three or more, served with theatrical flair — try the Scorpion Bowl, if you dare. 2411 18th St. NW, Washington, DC
Tiki TNT
Created by Arlington native Todd Thrasher, Tiki TNT is a neighborhood-style tiki bar with an adjoining distillery. The outfit produces its own rum, which is featured across its cocktail menu. You’ll find classic tiki cocktails on the menu, like the mai tai, Pain Killer, and Trader Vic’s Grog, as well as creatively combined (and named) not-so-classic tiki drinks, such as My Name is Michael Not Mike, a coconut rum creation, and bowls of drinks meant for sharing. The kitchen also serves Caribbean-inspired large plates and tantalizing light bites. 1130 Maine Ave. SW, Washington, DC
Tiki Thai
Tiki Thai seamlessly fuses Tiki aesthetics with Thai culinary tradition at its two NoVA locations in Reston and National Landing. The menu features classics with notable improvisations, such as the Underberg Rye Thai, a wacky retelling of the classic mai tai made with rye whiskey, overproof rum, pineapple cordial, and Underberg digestif. Not sure what to order? Simply ask for the Dealer’s Choice, and the bartender will create a custom beverage based on your preferences. 12100 Sunset Hills Rd., Ste. 107, Reston; 1651 Crystal Dr., Arlington
Vola’s Dockside Grill and Hi-Tide Lounge
This Old Town Alexandria haunt is a purveyor of summertime vibes, cocktails, and top-notch seafood. Its tropical cocktail menu includes frozen piña coladas, strawberry daiquiris, and spicy pineapple margaritas. The Riverside Caipirinha is a standout blend of prickly pear puree, lime juice, and cachaça, a distilled spirit made from sugarcane. 101 N. Union St., Alexandria
Feature image courtesy Coco B’s
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