Five Reasons Why You Need to Visit this Tiki Bar in Hong Kong

Tired of the same old crowded bar? Want to add a splash of excitement to your night? Then Wahtiki Island Lounge is where you ought to be. We know what you’re thinking, you’ve been to your fair share of tiki bars so what’s different about this one? On the surface, Wahtiki appears to be just like any other Polynesian-themed bars—wicker seatings, bamboo fixtures, and more totems than you can shake a stick at—but behind its warm and inviting atmosphere, this place has so much more to offer. Here are five reasons why Wahtiki Island Lounge is the only place you need for some all-around tiki-tastic entertainment.

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1. Beautiful escape

Perched on the third floor of Seabird House on Wyndham street, Wahtiki provides a beautiful escape for city dwellers to retreat to, in midst of the hustle and bustle of it all. Upon entrance, guests are instantly transported to a tropical world that has all the excitement of a vibrant tiki bar, but without any of the in-your-face decoration. From elegant bamboo lighting fixtures to its adorable tiki mugs, Wahtiki takes on a more sophisticated approach to Polynesian bars in Hong Kong, making it the perfect sanctuary for those in need of a quick getaway.

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2. Tiki history

Apart from its humble, yet alluring, décor that, quite frankly, speaks for itself the amount of time and effort devoted to the designing process of the venue, the fascinating story behind Wahtiki is also well worth acknowledging. But before we go on, let us turn the pages of our tiki history books together. First opened in 1936, Trader Vic’s is the original creator of the popular cocktail, Mai Tai (Don the Beachcomber claims a different recipe with the same name). After World War II, when soldiers returned from the South Pacific and Hawaii, the business boomed as tiki culture quickly gained popularity, which enabled Trader Vic’s restaurants to open all across the States, and eventually, around the world.

Philip Lee and his father, Mr Shi Wah Lee celebrating Wahtiki's first anniversary.

Inspired by the history of tiki culture and his father—Mr Shi Wah Lee, a tiki master who worked for Trader Vic’s London location from the 1970s and ran the bar there for nearly 20 years, Philip Lee opened Wahtiki in homage to his father’s remarkable career and achievements. Wahtiki’s distinctive sea turtle logo, on close inspection, is actually designed with a pattern on its shell that also mimics the Chinese character, “wah”, in his father's name.

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3. Cocktails by expert mixologists

With such a great legend behind Wahtiki, you can expect nothing less from its drinks menu. All staff here has been personally trained by senior Lee himself, who not only taught them how to make Mai Tai following Trader Vic’s original recipe, but also to serve drinks in a matter of seconds rather than minutes—that means less waiting, and more sipping! Having been there a few times herself, our Senior Editor here at Localiiz highly recommend trying other cocktails such as the Blue Hawaiian, Why Yes, Tahitian Delight, and Rum Boogie that can surely get you into the tiki-spirit of things. As for those looking to really turn up the party, go ahead and try the Scorpion or Rum Giggle, made for up to four people to enjoy. Better yet, put in an order for the star of the show, the Champagne Canoe. Filled with Magnum champagne (half-bottle to two), rums, liqueur, and tropical fruits, perfect for sharing with a big group of friends.

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Pu Pu Platter

4. Fusion food

The food at Wahtiki also shouldn’t go unnoticed either. Serving up a range of delicious fusion foods such as the Pu Pu Platter, comprised of a range of finger foods that you can lightly singe over a mini-grill in the middle, Grilled Honey Soy Sirloin, a honey soy-marinated beef sirloin topped with a match-made-in-heaven sweet mango salsa, and Wahtiki Spring Chicken, a crispy-skinned whole chicken served with sweet potato fries and a selection of veggies. The bar also does set lunches, and since Wahtiki is conveniently located in the middle of Central, you can always visit during lunch hour and get a taste of the South Seas yourself!

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5. Tiki party madness

Of course, it wouldn’t be a true tiki bar without some exotic, boozy fun! Offering 2-for-1 Original Mai Tai cocktails from 5.30pm til late every Monday, Wahtiki’s Mai Tai Mondays will make a perfect start to your week. And if you’re looking to cure your hump day blues, Wahtiki also holds a live music session every Wednesday, where talented singers will take to the stage from 9pm onwards. The bar’s popular Why Yes cocktail will also be on a special 2-for-1 offer. As for those down for some reckless abandonment on the weekend, there will be a live DJ session every Saturday, spinning all the latest hip-hop and R&B tracks to get those bodies moving through the night. But if you just need somewhere to unwind after a long day at work, Wahtiki’s daily “2-for-1 cocktails” happy hour deal (5.30pm to 8.30pm) will give you all the excuses you need for some cheeky post-work tipple.

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If you would like to know more about other exciting offerings at Wahtiki Island Lounge, be sure to keep an eye on its official Facebook page. Or call (+852) 2793 0308 to make a reservation. Wahtiki Island Lounge, 3/F, Seabird House, 22–28 Wyndham Street, Central

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