Historic North Hollywood Lounge
The Tonga Hut: Los Angeles' Longest-Running Tiki Landmark
Los Angeles, California, United States
By the Wicked Cool Places editors · Published
Why it’s cool
As a survivor of the original tiki craze, this North Hollywood institution preserves the kitschy spirit of the mid-century with its massive Big Mo statue and a grueling 78-drink cocktail challenge.
North Hollywood hides a portal to a bygone era of tropical escapism where the rum flows freely and the decor leans heavily into rattan and wood. Established by brothers Ace and Ed Libby during the 1950s and 1960s, The Tonga Hut stands as a testament to a movement that started in 1934 with the opening of Don the Beachcomber.
While other themed bars have come and gone, this spot has maintained its sultry atmosphere and kitschy charm for decades.
Why It Stands Out
Inside, the environment is a dense collection of exotica. Visitors are greeted by Big Mo, a grimacing tiki carving standing 10 feet tall.
Another large-scale local landmark is the statue known as Chicken Boy. The interior is filled with fountains, wooden canoes, and grass-skirted figures that evoke a specific, nostalgic vision of the South Pacific.
The bar gained new life in 2009 with the creation of the Order of The Drooling Bastard. This challenge requires participants to sample every one of the 78 recipes found in Jeff Berry’s 1998 book, Beachbum Berry’s Grog Log, within a single calendar year.
Those who complete the list earn a permanent spot on the wall and a lifetime discount of 1 dollar for every drink purchased. The wall features colorful handles like Swifty and Dr.
G, alongside a tribute to Dottie, a frequent guest who arrived six days every week for almost 20 years. Legend says Dottie still occupies her favorite seat, though she famously preferred brandy over the bar's signature rum concoctions.
Before You Go
Navigating the 78-drink list is no small feat, especially when it comes to the Beachcomber’s Gold. This particular combination of light rum, bitters, Pernod, and both Italian and French vermouths is notorious among regulars.
Many prospective members of the Order find it the most difficult hurdle to clear, often downing it as quickly as possible to get it over with. If you cannot make it to the North Hollywood original, there is also a sister location in Palm Springs that carries on the tradition.
Travelers interested in unique mid-century architecture might also enjoy visiting the Chemosphere.
Questions worth answering
What is the story behind the large tiki carving?
The ten foot tall figure is known as Big Mo. It stands as a grimacing centerpiece within the dense collection of mid-century tropical decor.
How do I join the Order of the Drooling Bastard?
You have one calendar year to finish every recipe in Jeff Berry's 1998 book. Completing all 78 drinks earns you a permanent spot on the wall.
Which cocktail is considered the most difficult to finish?
Most people struggle with the Beachcomber's Gold. It mixes light rum with Pernod, bitters, and two types of vermouth.
Is there another place to find this experience?
The original is in North Hollywood. You can find a second location in Palm Springs if you aren't in Los Angeles.
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