The Mr. Bali Hai is a famous tiki cocktail that has been delighting patrons of the Bali Hai restaurant on Shelter Island in San Diego, California, since the establishment opened its doors in 1954. This signature drink has become synonymous with the restaurant’s unique ambiance and has gained a devoted following among tiki enthusiasts worldwide.
The Iconic Mug
One of the most distinctive features of the Mr. Bali Hai cocktail is the special mug in which it is served. The mug, also called Mr. Bali Hai, is shaped like a headhunter’s head and comes with a removable lid. The mug’s design has become an integral part of the Bali Hai’s branding, serving as the restaurant’s signage and inspiring a large entrance way wood carving.
The Evolution of the Recipe
Over the years, the recipe for the Mr. Bali Hai cocktail has undergone various changes. However, a prominent version from the 1970s calls for:
- 1 1/2 oz of dark Jamaican rum
- 1 oz light Puerto Rican rum
- 3/4 oz coffee flavored brandy
- 1 1/2 oz unsweetened pineapple juice
- 1 oz lemon juice
- 1/2 oz of sugar syrup
Despite the use of a headhunter themed mug and shared coffee flavored ingredients, the Mr. Bali Hai bears little resemblance to Trader Vic’s flaming Coffee Grog, which was served in a similar “headhunter cup.”
The Otagiri Mug Company
The original Mr. Bali Hai mug was manufactured by the Otagiri Mug Company. The mug features two holes in the lid, making it perfect for sharing the delightful concoction of fine spirits brewed by the Bali Hai’s own resident witch doctor.
Variations and Adaptations
While the Mr. Bali Hai cocktail is most closely associated with the Bali Hai restaurant, it has been adapted and served at other tiki establishments, where it retains its signature coffee flavored profile. Some variations of the drink have emerged over the years, with ingredients such as blackberry brandy, pineapple juice, sweet & sour mix, Ron Rico light rum, and Lemon Hart 151 proof rum finding their way into the recipe.
A Timeless Tiki Classic
The Mr. Bali Hai cocktail remains a beloved choice among tiki enthusiasts, thanks to its unique combination of rum, coffee, and pineapple flavors. While it is traditionally served in a tiki mug, an old-fashioned glass can be used as a suitable alternative. The drink’s rich history and enduring popularity have solidified its status as a classic tiki cocktail that continues to be enjoyed by many.
