4 Suburban Tiki Bars for Tropical Relief from Chicago Winter
While Chicago can be an incredible wonderland during the winter season, the bitter winds and piles of snow can leave even the heartiest Chicagoan craving a tropical getaway. If a plane ticket to Hawaii isn’t in the budget, a little rendezvous with a pina colada could work wonders on those frostbitten fingers.
Across Chicago, there are quite a few refreshing tiki bars, but for suburbanites, a trip into the city when the weather is so frigid might not sound too appealing. Luckily, here are some suburban suggestions to warm your toes and fight off the cabin fever.
Hala Kahiki - River Grove
Located in River Grove since 1964, this neighborhood bar has been serving “tiki-inspired” cocktails for over 50 years across three generations. Their drink menu boasts over 130 tropical drinks that can be enjoyed inside among the palm fronds and bamboo matting or outside (during the summer months) beside tiki torches and a glowing fountain. Also, for those who want to take a tropical trinket home, Hala Kahiki features a South Seas Hawaiian Gift Shop in the back of the bar area.
Dawn’s Beach Hut - St. Charles
A hidden gem of Downtown St. Charles, Dawn’s Beach Hut will serve up a beach vacation in a glass. Be aware there is limited seating so you may have to hover around the bar or cozy up at one of the high-top tables, but the friendly bar staff make you feel like a local and that mai tai tastes even better in the carefree atmosphere.
Tiki Terrace - Des Plaines
As a tiki bar, Hawaiian restaurant, and live entertainment venue, Tiki Terrace provides a distinct tropical experience to the Des Plaines area. This neighborhood hotspot serves up flavors from the islands and classic Hawaiian style cocktails to anyone seeking a tropical escape. With intricate Polynesian decor, the atmosphere is intimate and welcoming, making this suburban tiki bar a popular weekend retreat.
Bikini Bottom Bar - West Dundee
For those suburbanites who want the familiarity of a local bar scene with the simplicity of a day trip to the beach, this popular bar in West Dundee serves up some poolside favorites and features daily drink specials. Bikini Bottom Bar provides some traditional bar amenities, such as pool tables, indoor bags, darts, and flatscreen TVs, alongside beach-themed decor and casual bar food.