Monday, December 7, 2009

What is Tiki?

To us, it is the mid-century-modern, polynesian popular movement that was born out of WWII veterans' desire to re-create the ideal of a South Seas paradise here at home. A time when themed restaurants and bars featured exotic and powerful rum concoctions served in beautiful and sometimes frightening drinking vessels, all in an environment filled with wondrous decor from primitive islands. And, if you were lucky, it was brought to you by beautiful Hula Girl waitresses.

Kansas City had more than a few such places, all gone now. But not forgotten.

4 comments:

  1. I think I have a lead for you. Unless I'm off my nut, there was a Trader Vics in the hotel at Crown Center that was around till at least the mid to late 70's.

    Hope you can make use of that.

    ReplyDelete
  2. Me, again. Here is something of a confirmation on the above-

    http://www.pitch.com/2007-03-08/dining/check-in/

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  3. I think the Kon Tiki was in this building.

    https://www.facebook.com/67653606987/photos/a.79461936987.78022.67653606987/10153011837361988/?type=1&theater

    ReplyDelete
  4. Yes, there was indeed a Trader Vic's in Crown Center! Ate there several times in the late 70's (very early 80's?) Almost embarrassing kitschy, but also quite fun. (-:

    ReplyDelete