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Hala Kahiki Lounge
10Best Says
Open since 1964, Hala Kahiki may be the most authentic tiki bar and lounge in the Midwest, outlasting Trader Vic's and predating all of the rookie tikis in the city. Indeed, it's among the oldest tiki... Read More
Open since 1964, Hala Kahiki may be the most authentic tiki bar and lounge in the Midwest, outlasting Trader Vic's and predating all of the rookie tikis in the city. Indeed, it's among the oldest tiki lounges in the country. James Oppedisano (the grandson of original owners, Rose and Stanley Sacharski) and his wife, Kerrie, have taken the helm to continue the voyage into the 21st century. But thankfully, not much has changed from the colorful main bar and 40 tables inside to the outdoor patio and extremely kitschy Hawaiian and South Seas Gift Shop. You can also have a cold beer with rotating selections from Hawaiian breweries.
Drinks are the thing here so choose from 130 tropical cocktails: powerful Zombies, tart Mai Tai's, sweet Bahama Mamas, coconut drinks, shots, hot drinks and cold ice cream beverages.
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EXPERT TIPS BY:
Jacky Runice
Chicago Local Expert
- Lounges: "On the last Saturday of every month, there's a live hula dinner and show."
- Best for Lounges Because: Hala Kahiki is an unpretentious gem that lives up to its moniker, "We were tiki before it was cool."