Every Phoenician’s favorite vacation-without-going-on-vacation spot, HULA’S Modern Tiki in Uptown Phoenix, dishes up a cool twist on the classic tiki bar. If Hula’s isn’t transportive enough, next door, The Captain’s Cabin is an intimate space for sipping–in late 40’s-era Tahitian sailor’s bar, no less.
HULA’S Modern Tiki in Uptown Phoenix is one in the trio of locations in the Valley; Scottsdale and High Street mark the other two outposts. There, revelers enjoy a high-energy, indoor-outdoor space for an after-dinner drink, fun brunch or digging in with friends. From the palm fronds to the tumbled sea glass, the beachy feel is prevalent. The only thing missing? A frothy, frosty cocktail in hand. Good thing one is just a quick order away.
Mai Tai, Painkiller, Zombie, Hurricane, Scorpion–HULA’S Modern Tiki has got ’em all, and they are delicious. (There are even zero-proof tiki drinks to enjoy.) The glassware is as fun and festive as the cocktails themselves. You won’t be able to sip without snapping a few pictures first.
Though some of the cocktails are topped with enough gorgeous garnish and fresh fruit to comprise a snack, HULA’S Modern Tiki has a tropical-inspired menu to savor. The bill of fare is mighty big, covering starters, handhelds, fresh fish, salads, Hula’s Favorites and more. Just like the drinks, many of the dishes are a vacation on a plate.
Some favorites: the crispy coconut shrimp rolls, paired with pineapple-horseradish dipping sauce, are a crowd-pleasing sweet-and-savory appetizer. Hearty appetites won’t be able to get enough of the Jawaiian Jerk pork or chicken plates, with sides of plantains, rice, mango salsa and delicious Jamaican Johnny cakes. If fresh fish sounds tempting, HULA’S Modern Tiki offers an array of options–snapper, salmon, ahi and more–with several preparation options.
The meal may be over but the voyage carries on at The Captain’s Cabin. Adjacent to HULA’s in Uptown Phoenix is an unassuming door that leads into a magical space–one that resembles a late 40’s-era Tahitian sailor’s bar in a venue no bigger than a living room. Every Thursday to Saturday, from 6 p.m. to close, guests can grab a seat at the bar or in the more lounge-y half of The Captain’s Cabin to savor rum flights or HULA’S “Uku Nui” cocktail menu (which means “premium” in Hawaiian). This is a super-cool experience you won’t want to miss.
HULA’s is open Monday to Thursday, 11 a.m. to 10 p.m.; Friday, 11 a.m. to midnight; Saturday, 10:30 a.m. to midnight; and Sunday, 10:30 a.m. to 10 p.m. For more information, visit www.hulasmoderntiki.com.
5114 N. 7th St.
Phoenix, AZ