
Before I go into my review of The Alibi, I must mention that I am a native Portlander and a big fan of all things Tiki. I have frequented The Alibi for many, many years and have also visited various tiki bars around the world. I’ve attended several birthday parties and commemorative events here and even had my own wedding reception at The Alibi. They are a very charming Portland institution however there is some room for improvement. The Alibi is one of the oldest Tiki bars in the country so it has a kitschy retro charm that is undeniable. The decor is fun and the lighting is perfect. They have some notoriously fun karaoke nights here too. The staff is very friendly and attentive. I still visit this bar regularly but always leave feeling that The Alibi has so much more potential and can do a better job of making their establishment a more creative and immersive experience. In all the years of going to The Alibi, I’ve never seen any of the bar staff wearing aloha or Tiki style apparel. This may seem like a superficial detail to some of you but I think it would make huge difference to the overall experience. I also rarely hear any Tiki bar style music when I visit. The last time I went to the bar the staff was playing 90s style alternative rock which totally threw off the vibe of the bar. Would it be too much to ask for some exotica or surf style music while I sip on my Mai Tai? The Alibi also has a very humble selection of Tiki cocktails and food options. If you’re a vegetarian or vegan you might want to eat before you visit. And after a while, their limited drink and food selection gets very boring especially for locals like myself. Many newer Tiki bars in the Portland metro are currently offering a rotating menu of signature cocktails that allow for their staff to create new and unique drinks. Sometimes these same bars will offer seasonal food options too. They don’t have any drinks with fire either which is such a bummer. With all that said, The Alibi is aesthetically beautiful and the staff is amazing but if you’re an avid Tikiphile like myself looking for a unique Tiki bar experience you may be...
Read moreIf you're searching for an enchanting escape from the ordinary, look no further than the Alibi Tiki Lounge in Portland, Oregon. From the moment you step inside, you're transported to a tropical paradise that tantalizes both your taste buds and imagination. With its exceptional selection of drinks, this lounge is a must-visit destination for any cocktail enthusiast.
The Alibi Tiki Lounge does not disappoint when it comes to their drinks. Every sip is a tropical symphony, bursting with vibrant flavors and carefully chosen ingredients that transport you to distant shores. Whether you're a fan of classic tiki concoctions or daring exotic blends, their menu offers a wide variety of options to satisfy even the most discerning palates.
One of the standout features of this lounge is their commitment to authenticity. The talented mixologists behind the bar truly understand the art of mixology, and their impeccable attention to detail shines through in every drink. From perfectly balanced ratios of ingredients to meticulously carved garnishes, the level of craftsmanship is exceptional.
The Alibi Tiki Lounge not only excels in crafting superb drinks but also creates an ambiance that enhances the overall experience. The vibrant and lively atmosphere transports you to a tropical oasis, complete with bamboo accents, Polynesian-inspired decor, and relaxing island tunes. The staff's welcoming and friendly demeanor adds to the warm and inviting vibe, making you feel like a cherished guest.
Additionally, their drink presentation is simply stunning. Whether your drink arrives adorned with fresh fruit and colorful umbrellas, or in a classic glass adorned with edible flowers, each creation is a work of art that delights both the eyes and the taste buds.
In conclusion, the Alibi Tiki Lounge in Portland, Oregon, is a tropical paradise that offers an exceptional drinking experience. With its delightful selection of drinks, authentic tiki vibes, and dedicated staff, it's guaranteed to leave you longing for your next...
Read moreMy friend and I were refused entry for reasons unclear. My friend is a Black woman and I am a Filipino & Black woman. After waiting in line on a Saturday night, a security guard examined our ID cards twice, said that we both looked really young (we’re 27 & 35 y/o), then he handed our IDs back to us. My friend and I thought that we could enter.
But when we started to cross the threshold, he physically blocked our entry and said, “No.”
“No, what?” We inquired.
“No,” he repeated.
“No, to what?” We asked again.
“No, you’re not getting in there,” he vehemently replied.
We asked, “Why?”
He responded with, “I don’t have to explain to you why you’re not getting in. Step aside.”
We stepped aside. My friend and I were blindsided and perplexed as to why the security guard was being so rude with us.
A couple of Asian women were standing near by, and one of them asked us, “Did he not let you in either?”
“No, he didn’t,” we relied.
“Probably because you’re too Black. He didn’t let us in, or our Queer friend in,” she called out.
The guard went on to say, “I don’t like your IDs.”
Both of our IDs were unexpired, were legitimately ours, and were real, mind you.
She said that the guard mentioned that her and her Asian friend looked really young as well. And they were in their 50s.
Frankly, this guard’s behavior was abhorrent and archaic. I am revolted and disappointed that the owner would hire security that’s racist, ageist, and homophobic. I used to come here and have a great time singing with my friends. This is the first time in my life that I was not allowed into a place for “unclear reasons” apart from the obvious subtext of my being Black & Asian. This security guard was a White man with black hair, approximately 5’11” with a somewhat stout build. For those who wish to sing, eat, drink, and be merry in a safe and inclusive place, this is not it. We ended up going to Chopsticks for a wonderful time. Alibi Tiki Lounge, please update your social construct, it’s obsolete and volatiles...
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