Legacy and Enduring Appeal
Despite the rivalry, both Don the Beachcomber and Trader Vic’s played instrumental roles in popularizing tiki culture in America. The ongoing debate over the origins of the Mai Tai only served to fuel public interest in tiki cocktails and bars, further cementing their place in American pop culture.
The Battle of the Mai Tai
One of the most famous rivalries in the history of mixology was the dispute over the invention of the Mai Tai cocktail. Both Donn Beach and Trader Vic claimed to have created this beloved tiki drink. The rivalry between the two establishments and their respective owners added to the intrigue…
The Emergence of Trader Vic
As Don the Beachcomber’s popularity grew, it faced competition from another tiki luminary, Victor J. “Trader Vic” Bergeron. Trader Vic’s, a tiki bar and restaurant founded by Bergeron, opened its doors in Oakland, California, in 1937. Like Don the Beachcomber, Trader Vic’s offered exotic cocktails and Polynesian-inspired decor, but it…
