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Where to Get Your Tiki On in NYC

New York City might be the pinnacle of urbanization, but these five tiki bars can provide some much needed escape from it all. Immerse yourself in all things tropical by visiting any of these local cocktail hot spots. If you simply need to relax, no bars come quite as close to perfection as tiki bars do.

Best of NYC Tiki Bars: Otto’s Shrunken Head (East Village)

Otto’s Shrunken Head has been giving off islander vibes since the summer of 2002 when NYC was at a shortage of tiki bars, and now, 15 years later, it’s still a hit amongst local New Yorkers and tourists alike. The Shrunken Head is the bar’s signature drink, served in a custom mug that you get to keep. Other beverage favorites here include classics like the Mai Tai and unique concoctions such as Otto’s Octane, which is made from pineapple rum coffee liquer, and a secret banana concoction. 538 E. 14th St., 212-228-2240, ottosshrunkenhead.com

Best of NYC Tiki Bars: Zombie Hut (Brooklyn)

Open till 4am on Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays, you know that Zombie Hut is a good time to be had. Even on weekdays, this joint stays open until 2am, making it one of New York City’s most beloved tiki bars. The décor here screams tropical while an outdoor backyard area makes for the perfect place to sit back and enjoy your Scorpion Bowl, Planters Punch, or Skinny Colada during the warmer months. 273 Smith St., 718-875-3433

Best of NYC Tiki Bars: Tiki Tabu (Lower East Side)

Tiki Tabu is more of a class act than your usual tiki bar hangout, making it a great option for those who still want to enjoy some tropical flair without feeling overpowered by it. Tiki Tabu is located on Sixty Les Hotel Resort rooftop, providing breathtaking views of the city, which just so happens to pair wonderfully with fruity-flavored and island-inspired drinks. 190 Allen St., 212-460-5300, sixtyhotels.com

Best of NYC Tiki Bars: Mother of Pearl (East Village)

Whether you want to stop by for a cocktail (you’ve got to try the $60 “Big Drinks”, which come served in a giant metal snail shell and are a sight all on their own), or want to go all out with some islander dishes (the Drunken Fried Rice is phenomenal, made with rum rice, pineapple edamame, coconut flakes, and cilantro), you can do it at Mother of Pearl. The entire menu is plant-based, so make sure you bring along all your vegan friends. 95 Ave. A, 212-614-6818, motherofpearlnyc.com

Best of NYC Tiki Bars: Surf Bar (Brooklyn)

Surf Bar has some major tiki vibes going for itself, thanks to its surf-themed décor and island-inspired aesthetic. As far as drinks go, order up a Coconut Kiss (dark rum, coconut cream, crème de cacao), Zombie (light rum, dark rum, apricot brandy, fresh lime juice, orange juice), or Polynesian Tourbus (dark rum, peach schnapps, amaretto, lime juice, orange juice) to get the evening started. 139 N. 6th St., 718-302-4441, brooklynsurfbar.com

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