Tiki cocktails to bring island vibes to your next cookout

The origins of Tiki culture trace back to the 1930s when the first Tiki bar opened in Southern California. Inspired by the South Pacific, it was a whimsical escape where patrons could indulge in drinks adorned with colorful umbrellas, bamboo swizzle sticks, and tropical garnishes. The bar soon became known for “Rhum Rhapsodies,” which were famously elaborate and filled to the brim with fresh juices, housemade syrups, liquors and liqueurs.  

The Tiki craze quickly swept across the nation, fueled by a desire to escape the pressures of daily life and immerse oneself in a fantasy world of rum-fueled revelry. Tiki bars popped up in cities across America, each offering its own twist on Polynesian-inspired cocktails served in elaborate ceramic mugs and coconut shells. 

Today, tiki drinks still sit front and center on many cocktail menus, capturing the imaginations of cocktail enthusiasts and backyard entertainers alike. These cocktails add a touch of flair to any occasion. 

What makes Tiki cocktails the ideal companion for a summer cookout? It's the laid-back vibe and communal spirit they evoke. Designed for sharing among friends, each sip brings to mind a sun-drenched beach or lush tropical rainforest, even if you’re actually on a rooftop in Brooklyn or in a backyard in Nebraska.  

With their bold flavors, vibrant hues, and eye-catching presentation, they're guaranteed to steal the spotlight at any party. Think a tropical gin sour, spiced jungle bird, or a twist on tradition with a coffee painkiller. 

Now, let’s dive into serving tiki cocktails at your summer cookout. From selecting the right barware and glassware to mastering the setup of your space, we'll ensure your backyard bash is a success. So, grab your shaker, dust off your favorite glassware and prepare to embark on a flavorful journey! 

If you’re sold on serving Tiki drinks at your next party but can’t decide which ones to pour, we’ve made it easy for you. Try these three takes on the Gin Sour, Jungle Bird and Painkiller.

When it comes to choosing glassware, you’ll want something that’ll let the drinks shine. Choose from rocks, highball, coupe and balloon or wine glasses to curate an assortment that feels right for your aesthetic and space. The more color, the better! 

You’ll want to ensure you have all of the tools necessary to make the drinks with confidence. Grab a shaker, a strainer, a cutting board for slicing up citrus for your garnishes and an ice bucket with tongs to keep you from running back to your freezer every other cocktail.

Don’t forget the details! Stock up on accessories like cocktail napkins, cocktail picks, stir sticks, straws and a pitcher or two for any cocktails you decide to pre-batch.