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Good Food

How Filipino bartenders shaped the origins of the Tiki bar

Tiki bars are arguably making a comeback these days. For many, these bars represent innocent nostalgia—an escape to an exotic, tropical past.

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By Evan Kleiman • Jun 14, 2019 • 1 min read

Tiki bars are arguably making a comeback these days. For many, these bars represent innocent nostalgia—an escape to an exotic, tropical past. But as Paola Mardo reports, these bars were forged out of the hard work and experiences of an oft-overlooked part of LA’s history: the Filipino bartenders of the 1930s and 40s.

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    Evan Kleiman

    host 'Good Food'

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    Nick Liao

    Managing Producer, Good Food

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    Joseph Stone

    Producer, Good Food

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    Laryl Garcia

    Senior Director, Good Food

    CultureFood & Drink
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