Book review: Tiki Road Trip - A Guide to Tiki Culture in North America

Tiki. It was a phenomenon that swept the US in the 1950s and 1960s. It's the idealized visualization of a fruitful tropical paradise and a pop-culture theme that lent itself to many a pub, bar, tavern, and inn during that time. It's an idealistic theme that has since lost its mainstream popularity but continues to thrive in dwindling numbers within dark watering holes across the country.

These few remaining tropical relics of the past are what author James Tietelbaum is in search for in his book Tiki Road Trip - A Guide to Tiki Culture in North America. This handy guide is in its second edition and it highlights a wide variety of Tiki bars, dives, and restaurants across the US and Canada as well as notable locations internationally to offer reviews, tips, and even drink recipes.


In the height of its popularity, the tiki theme inspired the Enchanted Tiki Room at Disneyland and then more recently Trader Sams at the Disneyland Hotel. I've personally always been a fan of the bird-filled singing attraction but it wasn't until Trader Sams opened last year that I was really introduced to the idea of Tiki.

When the great folks at Santa Monica Press sent over a copy for me to peruse, I found myself exposed to an interesting world that isn't quite as squeaky clean as Disney but just as immersive and fun.


The book begins describing a little bit of the history of Tiki and sets the parameters for the locations that are listed in the book. The "tiki factor" is key here and it's not defined so much by the food or even the drinks but by the full Polynesian pop experience from elements such as architecture and decorations down to music and staff attire.

Locations are listed by state and by alphabetical order from there. Tietelbaum doesn't stop at restaurants and bars, though. Other tiki points of interest are also listed including apartments, motels, and more. Brief but insightful descriptions are listed for each location, written with a frank tone and founded by the exacting self-imposed standards for a good Tiki experience.


There's even a Hawaiian Vocabulary section and a Glossary with quick bits and info on everything (and everyone) Tiki that you'll need to know before you make your Tiki road trip. But if a piling into a car for a long trip isn't your thing (and what's wrong with you?) then you can also get tips on bringing a little bit of the flavor of the isles into your own home with a recipes section that offers various drink ideas based on recipes from several of the locations featured in the book.

Whether you're the weathered Tiki crawler or the bright-eyed Tiki novice, this guide book is a really great tool to help you find your ideal tropical oasis. Whether you're in the heart of a major city or in middle of podunk nowhere, James Teitelbaum's "Tiki Road Trip: A Guide to Tiki Culture in North America" is a must-own for anyone looking for an expertly-guided nostalgic taste of the past.