A Little Piece of the Tropics in Palm Springs…read more
If you're looking for a fun cocktail experience in Palm Springs, Bootlegger Tiki is definitely worth checking out! This is one of those places where the atmosphere is just as much a part of the experience as the drinks. It's tucked away and has that intimate, old school tiki bar personality that makes you feel like you've stepped into a different era.
The interior has a cozy, vintage Polynesian inspired aesthetic, with bamboo details, moody lighting, tropical decor, and fun tiki accents. It's not an enormous bar, which actually adds to its charm. The space feels more like a hidden little getaway than your typical neighborhood bar. It's a great setting for a date night or a night out with friends.
The Drinks
We ordered four different cocktails, and I appreciated the variety rather than having four versions of the same tropical drink.
Mai Tai - $18
You can't visit a tiki bar without trying a Mai Tai! This is a classic tiki cocktail traditionally made with rum, fresh lime, orange curaçao, and orgeat (an almond based syrup). It's known for balancing citrus, sweetness, and the deeper flavors of rum. A staple for anyone who enjoys traditional tiki cocktails.
Green Tea Bag - $19
One of the more interesting selections on the order. The name definitely caught my attention because it's not something you'd typically associate with a traditional tiki cocktail. Green tea inspired drinks can bring a more delicate, earthy, slightly herbal flavor that contrasts nicely with sweeter tropical cocktails. It's an interesting direction for a craft cocktail.
Bourbon Berry Boomerang - $19
For anyone who enjoys bourbon but wants something with a fruity twist, this is an interesting choice. The combination of bourbon and berry inspired flavors offers a different direction from the usual rum heavy tiki drinks. Bourbon brings warmth and depth, while berry flavors can add sweetness and a little tartness.
Dealer's Choice: Bourbon - $20
This was probably the most fun concept on the menu because you essentially let the bartender take creative control. We selected bourbon as the base spirit and left the rest to the bartender. It's a great way to experience the creativity behind the bar and try something you might not have picked yourself. I particularly like the idea of having a bartender customize a cocktail around your preferred spirit instead of simply ordering from a list.
Atmosphere
The atmosphere is definitely one of the highlights. Bootlegger Tiki embraces the classic tiki bar aesthetic without feeling like an overly themed tourist attraction. The dim lighting, vintage decor, tropical details, and intimate layout give it a lot of personality.
I also appreciate that it feels like an actual cocktail destination rather than just another bar playing loud music and serving basic drinks. It's the kind of place where you can settle in, enjoy a couple of cocktails, and have a conversation.
Service
The cocktail experience is clearly a big part of what this establishment focuses on. Having a Dealer's Choice option is a nice touch because it gives the bartenders an opportunity to showcase their creativity and knowledge of different spirits.
The overall experience felt like what you'd expect from a specialty cocktail bar, where the drinks and presentation are the main attraction. It's a nice change of pace from establishments that simply pour a drink and send it out.
Final Verdict: 4/5
Overall, Bootlegger Tiki is a fun addition to the Palm Springs nightlife scene. I enjoyed the concept, the intimate atmosphere, and the variety of cocktails available. I especially appreciate that the menu offers more than just the traditional tropical rum drinks, giving bourbon drinkers and people who enjoy experimenting with different flavors something to explore as well.
If you're visiting Palm Springs and enjoy craft cocktails, unique drink menus, and a little vintage tiki nostalgia, Bootlegger Tiki is worth adding to your list. I'd happily consider stopping by again for another round!
