What is the history of Mr Bali Hai cocktail?

Answered by Matthew Yawn

The Mr Bali Hai cocktail has an interesting history that dates back to the 1960s. It was created by the Bali Hai restaurant, which is located in San Diego. The cocktail was named after a tiki statue called Mr Bali Hai, which stood outside the restaurant and became a symbol of the establishment.

The Bali Hai restaurant was a popular destination during the tiki craze of the 1960s. Tiki culture was all about creating an exotic and tropical atmosphere, and the Bali Hai restaurant embraced this trend fully. The restaurant featured Polynesian-inspired decor, including tiki statues, that transported diners to a tropical paradise.

The Mr Bali Hai cocktail was one of the many tiki drinks served at the Bali Hai restaurant. It was included in Jeff “Beachbum” Berry's Intoxica! cocktail book, which is a collection of classic tiki recipes. Berry is a renowned tiki expert and historian, and his book has become a go-to resource for anyone interested in tiki .

The recipe for the Mr Bali Hai cocktail calls for a combination of , lime , grapefruit juice, falernum (a sweet and spicy syrup), and grenadine. These ingredients come together to create a refreshing and tropical drink that embodies the spirit of tiki culture.

The name “Mr Bali Hai” is a nod to the tiki statue that stood outside the Bali Hai restaurant. Tiki statues were a common feature of tiki bars and restaurants during the 1960s. They were believed to bring good luck and create a sense of mystique and adventure.

The Mr Bali Hai cocktail became a popular choice among patrons of the Bali Hai restaurant. Its tropical flavors and vibrant presentation made it a hit with those looking to escape the everyday and indulge in a taste of the exotic. Over the years, the cocktail has remained a beloved classic in the tiki cocktail repertoire.

The Mr Bali Hai cocktail has a rich history that is intertwined with the tiki culture of the 1960s. It was created by the Bali Hai restaurant in San Diego and named after a tiki statue called Mr Bali Hai. The cocktail embodies the tropical and adventurous spirit of tiki culture and has remained a popular choice among tiki enthusiasts.