Tonga Hut Celebrates 55 Years

July 26, 2013

by — Posted in Event Reviews

I love a good Tiki bar – the fruity cocktails, fun exotic décor and the groovy people who frequent the tiki scene. Sadly many of the good authentic Tiki bars of the ‘50s and ‘60s have met the wrecking ball, but still going strong after 55 years is the Tonga Hut in North Hollywood. Holding the prestigious title of being the oldest operating Tiki bar in Los Angeles, Tonga has seen many trends come and go, but Tiki is forever!

They celebrated their 55^th Anniversary with a bash worthy of the place’s history and reputation. The place was PACKED! A commemorative, limited edition Tiki mug designed by renown Tiki artist Shag sold out in a flash and vendors in the back parking lot sold Tiki treasures and clothing as bands rocked the tiny stage inside for the enthusiastic crowd.

I got to chat for a bit with artist Shag, one of the nicest guys you’ll ever meet, who I had the pleasure of interviewing at his home (which looks like a Shag painting BTW!) about his inspiration and success a couple of years ago (read here)

And I made lots of new friends in this crowd that just loves the retro spirit and tropical flair of Tiki, including Dollie the Rockabilly Socialite, who you may know from the brief reality show “Wives With Beehives.” She’s gorgeous in person!

The owner of Tonga Hut got up and thanked the crowd and announced a new partnership with Kevin and Claudia Murphy to open the second Tonga Hut in Palm Springs. Yay!

What a fantastic party! See more party pix below.