#61 | Makai, Rome, Italy
Last Visit: Spring 2024
Rome — known for its ancient ruins, endless pasta dishes and wine. But Tiki culture? If you're hoping for a tropical escape here, you need to know where to look. The Makai Surf & Tiki Bar, tucked away on a side street in a slightly rough neighborhood, is one such place. When you enter the bar, you leave the Eternal City behind and immerse yourself in an atmospheric, Hawaiian-inspired adventure — with plenty of "Karate Kid" charm.
The first floor of the Makai / Copyright: Imbibe / Eater
The entrance to a Tiki wonderland. As soon as you enter, you notice the mix of restaurant and bar on the first floor. A concept that is not at all uncommon in tiki bars and is also used here: the division of the location into a casual, lighter part of some kind, as well as a (often slightly "hidden") more "hardcore" tiki part. This is exactly what we wrote about in Timo's article on Bar Rumba in Seattle. Just like there, the half of the bar on the first floor that opens slightly earlier, is characterized by a greater focus on food and more classic, simpler (but of course still tropically inspired) drinks. The thematic difference in design is also cool, with a design language clearly inspired by the US West Coast on the one hand and the US state of Hawaii on the other coming together on the first floor: beach hut, surfer shack, beach restaurant. This is where the bar's double subtitle "Surf (!) & Tiki Bar" comes from.
Almost everything on the menu revolves around seafood, from 1980s-inspired California sushi and octopus to funky burger variations — simple but excellently prepared — however the real magic happens at the bar. Guests can even rent a Hawaiian shirt in style before entering the world of bamboo, surfboards, and Tiki decorations. A little daring, a little eccentric — just like a good Tiki place should be.
The speakeasy in the basement / Copyright: I’m Freaky For Tiki
The staff mostly only spoke Italian, but the team manager, Filippo, takes the experience to a whole other level. A passionate host, he immediately recognized my enthusiasm for Tiki culture and took the time to show off his impressive collection of Tiki mugs. The collection is a real highlight, a testament to his commitment to keeping Tiki culture alive in Rome. Of course, they also have their own designs made and are collaborating with a manufacturer in Italy, a selection of which is available to buy.
Filippo not only invited me in for shots, but also took me to the second part of Makai, the "Speakeasy", the actual Tiki bar, which was closed that evening. The atmosphere there was magical — a basement room full of peacock chairs, fish floats and warm, colorful light. The atmosphere here was much more like that of a classic Tiki bar, making you want to sink into a fantasy world for the rest of the evening. The lights and music were turned on especially for us, while Filippo proudly and enthusiastically shared anecdotes from the world of Tiki.
Mai Tai
| Denizen Merchant’s Reserve
| Mount Gay Rum
| Pierre Ferrand Dry Curaçao
| Orgeat
| Lime
| Sugar
Of course, the Mai Tai was not to be missed, and I was not disappointed. Perfectly balanced, with a pleasant freshness and depth, it was a classic highlight. Furthermore, I was particularly pleased with the tiki mug and had to get it for myself. A design in the style of the "Cobra Kai" logo from "Karate Kid", in keeping with the name of the bar and also the subtle, deliberate 1980s flair, especially on the first floor. My companion wanted to stay alcohol-free that evening and was appropriately served a non-alcoholic Mai Tai. Without the rum, not particularly complex, but a nice refresher with the best Italian citrus fruits.
The crowd here is usually a mix of locals and American Tiki enthusiasts who are on a trip to or even through Europe. During the evening I was there, however, it was unusually quiet — hardly any guests, as it was the middle of the week. But this quietness added a special charm to my visit, as it gave Filippo even more time to share all his stories and tricks of the trade.
Copyright: Makai Tiki Bar
Makai Surf & Tiki Bar is a hidden gem for Tiki nerds and newbies alike. Despite its location, the bar exudes a charm all of its own — a paradise for those who want to experience the soul of Tiki culture. Whether through Filippo's heart-warming hospitality, the attention to detail in the decor or the top-notch drinks, the bar offers an experience you won't soon forget. You don't always need a high-end Tiki bar with a luxurious, huge selection of rum if everything else in the concept fits and is prepared on point. If you're visiting Rome and fancy a tropical break, you shouldn't miss this place!
/ar