Columbus, we made it through another gray stretch, and now there’s a tropical escape waiting on the second floor of Budd Dairy Food Hall.
Starting March 28, Simon’s Bar is getting a full makeover with a new pop-up called “It Ain’t Easy Bein’ Tiki.” On Friday and Saturday nights, the space will trade its usual vibe for something a little more island-inspired, complete with colorful decor, specialty glassware, and a menu of cocktails that lean fruity, bold, and a little over the top in the best way.
The drinks are clearly part of the fun here. You’ll find options like the Toucan Slam, which mixes rye with pineapple, lime, and a hint of cinnamon, plus a frozen colada that you can keep alcohol-free or spike however you like. It’s the kind of menu that feels designed for lingering a while, especially when it’s still cold outside.
And while a tiki pop-up in Columbus might sound like a novelty, it actually taps into a long, slightly weird, and very local tradition.
Columbus has been into tiki for a while
Long before themed pop-ups were a thing, Columbus had one of the most famous tiki restaurants in the country: The Kahiki Supper Club. Opened in the 1960s, it was known for its massive A-frame building, indoor waterfalls, and elaborate Polynesian-inspired dishes and drinks. It was the kind of place people dressed up for, ordered something served in a flaming bowl, and fully leaned into the experience.
READ MORE: 🍹 The Kahiki Supper Club Was The Most Iconic Restaurant In Columbus
After Kahiki closed in 2000, the city’s tiki scene never fully disappeared. Spots like Grass Skirt Tiki Room kept the spirit alive with strong drinks, dim lighting, and a sense that you’d stepped out of Ohio for a couple of hours.
This new pop-up at Budd Dairy feels like a modern take on that same idea.
It’s a little more temporary, a little more playful, but still rooted in that same desire to escape, even if it’s just for a night.
“It Ain’t Easy Bein’ Tiki” will run on Fridays and Saturdays from 6 p.m. to midnight, and entry is free for guests 21 and up. If you’re looking for something different to do this weekend, this might be your easiest ticket to a quick vacation without leaving Columbus. Budd Dairy Food Hall is located at 1086 N 4th St. You can get more info or plan your visit over at budddairyfoodhall.com.
