Los Angeles is a city known for its diverse cultural offerings, from the golden age of Hollywood to the vibrant food scene and eclectic nightlife. Among these hidden gems is the Tiki Ti, an unassuming yet iconic tiki bar located on Sunset Boulevard. Since its founding in 1961, Tiki Ti has become a beloved landmark, a testament to the tiki culture that once swept across post-war America. This blog explores the rich history of Tiki Ti, its lasting impact on Los Angeles’ nightlife scene, and why it’s more than just a bar—it’s a cultural institution.
The History of Tiki Ti: From Humble Beginnings to a Cultural Icon
Tiki Ti was founded by Ray Buhen, a Filipino immigrant and former bartender at Don the Beachcomber, the birthplace of tiki culture in the United States. After working at various tiki establishments, Buhen decided to open his own tiki bar, bringing decades of cocktail knowledge and Polynesian flair with him.
Tiki Ti opened its doors on April 28, 1961, on Sunset Boulevard, offering a cozy, 12-seat bar with a menu filled with Ray’s secret recipes. Even after Ray’s passing, his son Mike and grandson Mike Jr. have continued the family tradition, keeping Tiki Ti alive and well into the 21st century.
Tiki Ti’s Unique Charm and Atmosphere
Step inside Tiki Ti, and you’re transported to a different time and place. The small, intimate bar is packed with Polynesian décor—wood carvings, tiki statues, bamboo accents, and hanging glass floats create a tropical atmosphere that feels both authentic and nostalgic. The iconic tiki mugs and intricate drink garnishes are an ode to tiki’s golden age.
What truly sets Tiki Ti apart, though, is the drink menu. The bar offers over 90 different drinks, many of which are original creations by Ray Buhen himself. Some of the most popular choices include the Blood and Sand, Ray’s Mistake, and the infamous Zombie, known for its potent mix of rum and tropical juices. Each drink is meticulously prepared, reflecting the art of tiki cocktail crafting that Ray Buhen helped pioneer.
Tiki Ti’s Impact on Los Angeles Culture
Though Tiki Ti is a small bar, its influence on Los Angeles’ drinking culture is monumental. In a city where trends come and go, Tiki Ti has stood the test of time, surviving cultural shifts and changes in drinking preferences. While tiki bars across the country have closed their doors, Tiki Ti remains a steadfast guardian of this unique subculture.
Los Angeles, in particular, has a rich history with tiki bars, as it was home to some of the earliest and most famous tiki establishments, such as Trader Vic's and Don the Beachcomber. Tiki Ti, however, has always had a more intimate, community-driven vibe. Locals and tourists alike come not just for the drinks but for the experience of being part of LA's tiki revival.
The Revival of Tiki Culture in Los Angeles
While tiki culture fell out of mainstream favor in the 1980s, the last two decades have seen a tiki revival, with tiki-themed events, home bars, and tiki cocktail competitions popping up all over the country. Tiki Ti has been at the forefront of this resurgence, maintaining the authenticity and spirit of tiki through the decades.
Tiki bars are now making a comeback, with tiki culture enthusiasts celebrating the craft of tropical cocktails and the escapism that these spaces offer. Tiki Ti has played a pivotal role in this revival by staying true to its roots and serving as a beacon for those seeking the original tiki experience in Los Angeles.
Why Tiki Ti is a Must-Visit
Visiting Tiki Ti isn’t just about grabbing a drink—it’s about experiencing a piece of LA history. Whether you’re a longtime tiki fan or a curious newcomer, stepping into Tiki Ti is like stepping back in time to the heyday of the tiki movement. Its family-run operation, original recipes, and carefully curated atmosphere make it a truly unique experience in a city known for its ever-evolving nightlife scene.