Sea Vista Tiki Bar — Restaurant in New Smyrna Beach

Seeing as how this is the only tiki bar on the beach in the area, our expectations were higher. Originally the plan was to enjoy the tiki bar and stay at this motel, until we arrived on site. Judging by the dirty, run down exterior, I would expect the rooms are equally dirty and unkempt. We did still patronize the bar, though, and found it equally dirty and unkempt. The drinks were of average price (considering beach side location) and quality. When inquiring as to closing time, we were told they "usually play it by ear, usually by 8pm." This was disappointing due to so little options in the area. They did, however, stay open later, as regulars were present. It should be noted that our visit was on a weekday (Thursday) evening. Apparently everything (bars, restaurants, hotel restaurants) in the area close between 8 and 11 pm. This forced us to order food from their kitchen, and it was surprisingly tasty. They had closed and fired the fryers back up for us (thankfully we had befriended said regulars by then, as they prompted the cook to serve us) and were therefore limited in menu selection. We chose chicken fingers and fries (seemed a safe enough choice) and they were very good considering the source. We also enjoyed life size connect four. They also have life size Jenga and checkers, and outdoor TVs. Overall, we made do and had a good time and all this place really needs is a face lift and...

Rude bartender here's why- We walked up from the beach to get som drinks and asked her what she would recommend for cold frozen drinks, She pointed to some milk carton flavors that were by the blender. We asked what that meant and she mumbled something as if now we were bothering her. yet she was doing nothing else so we asked and you make a pina colada. She goes "no" and points to the cartons of flavorings. (three to pick from) banana, I think fruit punch, and another one. I figure OK she could care less so I asked if she could make two frozen Rum Runners and she actually made two drinks for us (not real rum runners but close enough) and they were cold with enough booze. $9 each so she got $2 tip. (I would have gave her a $5 on top of the $20 and that would have been my usual tip. Anyhow a ranted long enough and that said, the tables had not been cleaned the whole time we were there. and there were others working who were just standing around. Time to brin in John Taffer. OK it's dive bar but really?) Now the good.- View is perfect. Beach access- music plsying has a nice beach vibe. I will be back and give it another try, everyone...

Our visit was entirely overshadowed by the bartender’s unacceptable service. From the very start, they seemed disengaged and disinterested in providing even a basic level of hospitality. Despite a relatively quiet day, we were left waiting for long periods just to place our drink orders, only to receive them with no apology or acknowledgment of the wait. When we tried to ask a question about the menu, they were curt and dismissive, making it clear that they didn’t want to be bothered. It was frustrating and disappointing to feel so undervalued as customers. This kind of experience not only affected our mood but also took away from what should have been a relaxed and enjoyable day. I’ve always tipped generously for service, even when it’s not perfect, because I understand the hard work that goes into it. However, for the first time in my life, I felt completely justified in not leaving a tip because of how poorly we were treated. I hope management addresses this, as it’s unfortunate for one person’s attitude to ruin an otherwise...