Transported to Tiki-Time at LA’s Bamboo Club

By Joseph Luparello

The historic Zafaria District of Long Beach, California is home to The Bamboo Club, a uniquely themed establishment that transports guests to a totally different time and place.

 

The Bamboo Club

 

Ever since its doors were opened back in March of 2019, the Club has remained a staple for local friends, family, and Long Beach tourists.

 

The tiki experience at Bamboo Club makes its first impression on guests with darker lighting complemented by a noticeably welcoming vibe. Splashes of color from the strings of lights and dimly lit blowfish hanging lights lead you into the restaurant. Pillars of bamboo and hand-carved Tikis immediately indicate that you’re at the right spot! Designed by the award-winning Bamboo Ben Bassham, Bamboo Club boasts the perfect balance of thatch, tribal masks, and kitschy decor throughout, making it feel like it’s already been there for decades. Both inside the restaurant/bar and on the smaller patio, murals from local Tiki legends adorn the walls, and the patio is complete with a Volcano water feature and outdoor bar.

 

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Delving into some of the location’s highlights, Beverage Director Dustin Rodriguez, aka “Tiki Tio” went on, “The Bamboo Club is an escape from the norm. While open daily for lunch, dinner, and late-night bites, it’s also an escape from your familiar dive, or neighborhood eatery, and each time you visit you can expect a lot of exotic aromas and flavors to be enjoyed. Come grab lunch and something island-inspired, like the Loco Moco, while sipping a Jungle Bird. Go ahead and forget that the sun is still up! Or maybe you want to drink Piña Coladas on the patio mid-afternoon. There’s a little bit of something for everyone; DJ’s and live music at night, indoor and outdoor dining and, of course, cocktails! If you are dining with us, don’t worry we have plenty of vegan and vegetarian options too. The Vegan Spaghetti Squash Pad Thai is fire!”

 

To no surprise, the liquid delights they offer are very much rooted in classic Tiki culture. All the recipes for cocktails like the Mai Tai, Zombie, and Painkiller pay close attention to originality, to honor the pioneers of the legendary tropical drinks. Quality is another focal point, as their team makes sure to use only the finest juices and freshest fruit, along with one of the best selections of rum around.

 

Beyond the classics, their house cocktails stand alone as some of the best contemporary cocktails that Tiki has to offer. The Dr. Bamboo, USO Monroe, or the Firewalker are all top sellers! Don’t forget to travel the globe via the Daiquiri menu either; twelve daiquiris showcasing our favorite rums from around the world!

 

Tiki Tio left some useful advice for those seeking to run a successful bar program like his own: “I think that in today’s cocktail climate, it’s very important to offer something familiar, like a Mai Tai, maybe a riff on a classic, as well as offer new and inventive cocktails. A knowledgeable staff is also key!”

 

 

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