“If you can’t get to paradise, I’ll bring it to you” – Don the Beachcomber

It’s been more than three quarters of a century since the concept of Tiki bars was born. Now you can find bars promoting the westernised interpretation of the “Polynesian” lifestyle all over the world. With wooden and straw woven tables and walls, palm style huts, exotic flowers, traditional fishing paraphernalia, and anything and everything related to that romantic ideal of a Polynesian paradise, Tiki bars have remained a prominent force within the hospitality industry. Sugar Cane Bar is a successful example of a Tiki bar continuing to attract capacity crowds well into the 21st Century. Located close to Clapham Junction Station in the south west of London, the first glimpse of Sugarcane Bar from the street immediately tells a theme of a “Polynesian paradise”. Sugarcane has been running for over four years now and has become a reputable location of choice for the young professionals of London who choose to spend their evenings sampling the plethora of tropical style cocktails. Company owners and investors have been so taken aback by Sugar Cane’s success that there was little hesitation in opening a second (larger) Tiki bar, and has done so in one of London’s most renowned areas - Chelsea. Kona Kai is the new destination venue to hit Fulham Broadway’s doorstep. Though some similarities have filtered through from Sugar Cane’s success story, Kona Kai largely aspires to have a newer, more independent and sophisticated cocktail range that goes above the expectations of customers. In keeping with the traditions employed by Don the Beachcomber, the decor goes far and beyond to represent the true Tiki bar image, complimented by some of Don’s own cocktail recipes. Otherwise Kona Kai pursues its own reputation of quality cocktails, drinks and service, live forms of entertainment, and a bouncing atmosphere that has creates a unique experience within the Fulham/Chelsea area. Bookings well in advance are advised for those intending to visit during busy nights as this will enable you speedy entry to the venue and provide you with a place to sit after those dancing shoes need a spell. The dress code of smart casual is strict, though unsurprisingly grass skirts, straw hats and floral leis and other fancy dress parties can be an exception as they add that little bit more fun to the evening. Though Kona Kai is not a restaurant as such, full course meals can be acquired with starters, mains and dessert. However, in the eyes of a true Tiki enthusiast, food is an unnecessary obstacle to exploring the cocktail list, so maybe a platter between friends is a fair compromise. Like all competitive venues these days, Kona Kai can be followed on their website (www.konakai.co.uk), facebook (www.facebook.com/konakailondon) and twitter (@konakaibar) for updates on special events, theme nights and other promotions. So jump onboard and stay in touch with the new Tiki party bar in London, drop in on a week day or make a booking for a Friday or Saturday, and be part of the continuing succession of Don’s Polynesian paradise in London. As Don was quoted once upon a time – “If you can’t get to paradise, I’ll bring it to you” – Don the Beachcomber.