Laka Lono Rum Club — Restaurant in Omaha

I normally love this bar, been here many times and even brought out of town family and friends here specifically because I loved the atmosphere and drinks, but now I’m not sure I should ever come back. The security guard working tonight was clearly in a bad mood. I’ve boarded airplanes, gotten into bars (even this one before!), gotten jobs, and done millions of other things with my Nebraska issued drivers license that I’ve had since I turned 21 three years ago with literally no issue, ever. Tonight, he stares at my ID for a long time and asks me to repeat my birthday, address, and full name, to which I give him correctly no problem. Then he starts asking about my eye color, if I wear contacts, quite a lot of questions, and my friends were so confused about what the problem was, because he didn’t ask them anything like that. After I answered all of his questions he still said “This is not your ID, this isn’t you”. I thought he was kidding. I wasn’t sure what else to say because it’s definitely my ID, and I could even provide the rest of my wallet identification cards if he wanted me to. I tried asking him what was wrong with my ID but he just kept repeating “This is not you, I’m going to have to pass on this”. I was so confused and angry at this point. Again, I’ve has this same ID for almost three years now and this is the first time someone has ever even implied that I look different from my ID photo. I’ve gotten into this same bar I don’t know how many times with this same exact ID, and this same exact security guard, so I have no idea what his issue with me tonight was. Obviously there was no reasoning with him and I wasn’t looking for an argument so my friends and I just left, and we got into many other bars without my ID getting a second glance. I’m sure you guys don’t care about losing our business, but it is pretty hurtful to get treated that way when I’ve done nothing but say good things to everyone I know about this place and I’ve been here multiple times before with no problem.

Why does this security guard working at a bar thinks he knows my ID better than say, TSA? I’m sorry but you guys can’t treat people this way, there’s plenty of other bars that are less expensive than yours that people could visit, but I choose yours because usually the people are very friendly. Clearly your security guard was just in a bad mood, but unless I’m given an apology or this is made right somehow, I don’t want to come back. Unless you want to deal with a rude security guard who has a chip on his shoulder, you...

Let me start by saying I never write reviews like this, but I cannot help but write this one. We went there for my friends bachelorette party downtown this past weekend, and to say that the experience was disappointing is an understatement. We tried to order our drinks from the bar when we came in, but were told we were not able to do so and we had to go sit down and wait for a waitress. Odd, but we did so (even though a couple girls in the party were allowed to order at the bar.). Then, a very rude waitress came to our table ten minutes later and took our drink orders. Then, she demanded a card from us - she would not take our drink orders without it. We tried to explain we all were just trying to get our own drinks but she would not let us order in such a manner. Again, odd but ok. One of the girls gave her card. Over 35 minutes passed before we finally got our drinks (we would have left but they had our friends card...) and in this time, this waitress ignored us (well, except for her PICKING UP our friends chair and shoving her closer to the table, nastily telling her she was sitting too far out and was going to trip her.). We were shocked to be treated that way.... then finally, when our drinks came after having been at the bar for 45 minutes (it was not overly busy...) my drink was AWFUL. It was supposed to have a hint of lemon and vanilla, and the bar tender had put so much lemon juice in it (and the two other girls who had ordered the same drink) that it was almost undrinkable. We asked to send them back but they would not, and with them being $11 drinks, we made ourselves drink them... we all decided to move on and asked for our ticket. Bar tender WOULD NOT ALLOW US to pay for our own drinks, demanding that since we came in as a large party (note, there were 8 or 10 of us...) it HAD TO BE SPLIT 4 WAYS. He said that if we had wanted to pay for our drinks separately we would have needed to order from the bar- we explained that WE HAD TRIED TO, but were not allowed! He then shrugged and said it wasn’t his problem. The icing on the cake was that he had added at least 2 extra drinks to our bill that we had not ordered. I was suuuuper disappointed with this bar- it seemed like a fun, albeit a tiny bit cheesy, place to have a festive drink. Unfortunately, I will never return. UPDATE: I have my receipt- including tip, it was supposed to be $15.50. My bank account was deducted $17 from this...

I had the pleasure of visiting Laka Lono, the tiki bar, and was absolutely delighted by the incredible service provided by Tommy, their star bartender. Tommy's skill and charisma elevated my entire experience at the bar, making it an unforgettable evening.

Tommy's expertise in mixology was truly impressive. He not only crafted visually stunning cocktails but also ensured that each drink was a masterpiece of flavor. From classic tiki drinks to his own unique creations, Tommy's recommendations were spot-on and tailored to my preferences. His attention to detail in every drink preparation was remarkable.

What truly set Tommy apart, though, was his warm and engaging personality. He greeted me with a friendly smile and made me feel right at home. His knowledge of tiki culture and the history behind the cocktails added an educational and immersive dimension to my visit. Tommy's enthusiasm for his craft was infectious, and he took the time to explain the stories behind the drinks, making the experience all the more enjoyable.

Furthermore, Tommy's exceptional customer service skills were evident throughout the evening. He was attentive without being intrusive, ensuring that my glass was never empty and that I had everything I needed to savor my time at Laka Lono. His professionalism and genuine passion for mixology and customer service were truly commendable.

In addition to his impressive mixology skills and friendly demeanor, Tommy's flair for presentation was a sight to behold. Each cocktail was served with artistic garnishes, and the tiki mugs he chose were as visually appealing as the drinks themselves. It was evident that he put thought and creativity into every aspect of the drink presentation. In summary, Tommy at Laka Lono is a standout bartender who elevated my tiki bar experience to new heights. His mixology skills, warm personality, and commitment to exceptional customer service make him a true gem in the world of bartending. I highly recommend paying a visit to Laka Lono and experiencing Tommy's cocktails and hospitality firsthand; you won't be...