A very well done Tiki Bar in an odd spot near the freeway adjoining a fantastic Indian Food restaurant on one side and across the lobby from a rundown hotel on the other. The odd location adds to the charm and speakeasy feel. The owners are extremely friendly and have done an awesome job creating a true Tiki Lounge atmosphere transporting you back to the olden days of Hawaii. Drinks are strong and good and reasonably priced for the atmosphere bonus you are getting. Live music frequently available too. They've thought of everything. Only thing missing is pupus. No food here. But the Indian Restaurant next door will deliver a plate to you. You'll know when Happy Hour starts (4-6) as the lights turn red for a while at the beginning. read more

See all

Tucked into an inconspicuous corner awning between a motel & an Indian restaurant, the untrained eye might miss the entrance to Pele Utu altogether. The doors open into an pocket sized oasis right here in our own dry AF high-desert air; a dimly lit collection of tropical plants, puffer fish, ukelele music and aloha shirts. Its like a fever dream - the lovechild of Elvis Hawaiian movies and a trippy classic Disneyland ride, punctuated by neon and heavy cigarette smoke. The drink menu is extensive & eccentric. The establishment's proprietor, Dr. Shocker, perpetually clad in floral print and signature straw hat, is a fixture at the corner of the bar. He tells great stories. This is a true Reno hidden gem, and harkens to a simpler era of the classic Tiki bar, strong drinks, and living on island time. Go get drinks, get some samosas from next door...and get an Uber home. You'll need it. read more

See all

Pele Utu did a fun job decorating their space! I love the tiny bridge at the entrance. As expected the tiki drinks are strong- particularly the punch bowls. I love the variety on offer and there are some unique options I've never had before. I'm looking forward to going back to try more!! I'm no tiki expert and I've never met a tiki I didn't enjoy but I think this is a great addition to the bar options in Reno. read more

See all

A quick drink with some friends. Definitely has the tiki bar feel!! Frankie and Annette movie playing in the background. There were 2 bartenders ready to make our tasty tropical drinks. I had the Blue Hawaii, my friends each had tropical drinks as well and they were served in fun glasses -a tiki pole and a Hawaiian fish. They had a bar mix for a snacking. You are also able to order food from the. Indian restaurant next door, if you something more than crunchy snack mix. read more

See all

Wait what? A tiki bar in Reno?! Yes! Had an amazing time here with our local imbibing group. All the rum tiki drinks your hear craves can be found here in this little tucked away haven! Enjoyed ourselves and look forward to coming back again soon. read more

Pele Utu - Front of bar - Tiki Bars Near Me - Reno, Nevada

Can this even really be considered a Tiki Bar? More like................ bar. The atmosphere gives a vibe that maybeeee there will be some entertainment or drinks options resembling an experience, but, don't get hopes up. We spent time in NV celebrating my birthday and visiting all the places that I like to check out in new places..... One of them is a tiki bar. I was really excited! Bring on the indoor smoking. Yes, I realize I was out of CA, still. Ew. Customer service was, eh. It was like, "Another?" About as much enthusiasm as "Bob" in the corner lighting another one. Oh, and the icing on the cake..... not literally.... was sticky tables. Sticky. Like, no one goes around wiping the tables and trying to create a welcoming vibe. The staff are too busy lighting another cig with the locals. I would NOT consider this a Tiki experience. Just because you put fancy little umbrellas and rum in my drink........ When I experience sticky gross tables like that.... It truly makes me wonder how clean it is behind the bar. NEXT. read more

See all

Feels like a fun trip to a tropical cave of Pacific themed libations. I was thrilled that there was Hawaii 5-0 playing on the TV. There was a gentleman playing the guitar, ukele, fiddle with some recorded drum beats. I was a little confused because he played a lot of wonderful country songs but just a handful of Hawaiian music. I found out that the musician moved to Reno recently from Honolulu. He grew up near where I currently live in Honolulu.. A tasty selection of tiki drinks and cute names to go with them. They do have that "taste" that makes them more than just a regular Mai Tai or pineapple based drink. The cup designs, garnishes, fire and stirrers make it such a festive time. A great stop for locals and or visitors. It's tucked between an Indian restaurant and a motel. Lots of parking. We did have a little trouble finding it, but once around the block, we spotted it. Friendly folks and manager. Oh yeah, they have Kona beers and cider on tap. Full bar. read more

See all

SO MUCH FUN! A completely hidden gem, tucked into a motel parking lot, the second you walk through the doors your transported into another world. The ambiance, 10/10. The owners? Precious as heck!!! The drinks?! Top notch!!!! From start to finish Pele Utu is a vibe and an experience, one that keeps you wanting more. Definitely give their IG a follow to see what is happing - I love reading their blurbs. read more

See all

An impromptu visit with friends on a Sunday afternoon was just what we needed at this true tiki bar. Dark and kitschy. Loved the decor, music, and drinks. Not a large venue by any means. This is a cozy place. I could see becoming a regular. The mai tai knocked me on my booty. Probably the most potent I've ever had. The drink stirrers were fun and conversation starters. Make sure to ask for some bar snacks as you'll want to soak up the alcohol. Live entertainment is scheduled on multiple nights. Loads of fun! read more

See all

Double trouble. Tiki and a dive-bar. This was our 2nd night of our dive-bar crawl, and this place did not disappoint. If you're looking for a Tiki bar with entertainment, this place is it. It was also unique in that it's got an Indian restaurant right next to it in case you've got the munchies. The drinks were solid; entertainment quirky. Street parking aplenty. read more

See all

Came for a girls night and i was blown away! The place is so unassuming. I actually drove right by because I thought it got moved. But once you get inside it is absolutely perfect! The decor is fun, kitschy, and super goofy aesthetic. The music was blaring and we were greeted with a warm ALOHA from the bar. We sat in a booth and were helped immediately. The menu is super adorable and has something for everyone. The cups are fun and the drink display is even better. We ended up with the Lave Flow which is a pina colada with Straberry sauce and habanero juice. It was absolutely DELICIOUS! The spiciness was perfect and the overall flavor was great. The waitress was very kind and attentive and I loved her recommendations and conversation. GO EARLY - it want too busy when we sat but when we left fourth-five minutes later it was PACKED. We will definitely be back time and time again. read more

Pele Utu - Lave Flow - Tiki Bars Near Me - Reno, Nevada

If themed venues and pretty cocktails is your thing, you'll love Pele Utu. Not an easy place to find (located squished between an old motel, Indian restaurant and new car wash on stardust), but this hole in the wall Polynesian themed bar is fun and drinks look and taste great. Prices were fair and bartender service was fun, friendly and quick. There is no door served here, but they allow you to bring food in if you wish. Can get a bit loud and busy. Not overly accommodating to large groups coming together (if you want to sit together), but worth a try when in the area looking for a fun place to try. read more

See all

The best bar in Reno, hands down. Family‑owned and operated, Pele Utu is traditional tiki through and through--but the drinks take it to another level. Huge shout‑out to Rosie. I've visited tiki bars all over the country, and this place truly stands apart thanks to their exceptional mixology. We tried the Pele's Lava Flow, the Hukilau Jim, and the Kona Kooler. Every drink was beautifully balanced, with layers of flavor that show just how much care goes into choosing the perfect spirits for each cocktail. It's thoughtful, skillful, and genuinely craft‑driven. read more

Pele Utu - Hukilau Jim - Tiki Bars Near Me - Reno, Nevada

See all

This little tiki bar is tucked away next to the Indian restaurant off of Keystone Blvd. It has a fun tiki theme that creates a nice vibe. Cocktails are served in tiki cups and occasionally there's a band playing live music. The bartenders were friendly and served the drinks quickly. It's a great place for a fun fruity cocktail. The only downfall is that you'll have to get food elsewhere. They don't have food service except for the bar mix snack of assorted pretzels and crackers. read more

Pele Utu - Cocktails in fun tiki cups - Tiki Bars Near Me - Reno, Nevada

See all

Such an awesome experience! Delicious drinks!!!! They have done such an amazing job with the place! Ambience is relaxing drinks are ones I've never heard of but all that I have ordered are good! read more

Pele Utu - Blue Hawaiian and a Chi chi - Tiki Bars Near Me - Reno, Nevada

See all

Super fun island atmosphere and good, strong drinks. Pele Utu is the one and only tiki bar in Reno, and it's definitely worth the trip! The drink menu is HUGE, so you're definitely going to find something to your taste! read more

Finally here for a burlesque show, and another crack at finishing out my voyage through the entire menu. Great time as always, and killer drinks. Shocker and Rosie are absolutely delights to hang out with and chat up. Until next time... read more

See all

Back again -- and this visit was even better! We came in to relax and enjoy some live music, and Lee Jones absolutely blew us away with his incredible talent. His ukulele playing and singing are a must-see! If you're looking for a great vibe, be sure to stop by on a Thursday night when he's performing. You won't regret it. The drinks, as always, hit the tiki spot. This time I was on the hunt for a specific drink I'd seen others enjoying -- turns out it's called the Lava Flow, and OMG... it's delicious! Creamy, fruity, and perfectly balanced. If you're not sure what to order, definitely start with this one. One of the things I love most about this place is the people. The bartenders and owners are always so friendly and welcoming -- we had some great conversations and, as always, I walked away having learned something new. Whether it's their stories, recommendations, or just chatting about life, the vibe here is always warm and genuine. Great music, tasty drinks, and even better people -- this spot continues to be a favorite! read more

See all

It's everything standard in a classic tiki bar- surf rock, littered in decorations, and a slight tinge of cigarette smoke. I expected no less. If you know the origins of the West Coast tiki bars from California to Washington, this bar fits that archetype. The location used to be home to the Gateway Lounge, and has been converted into this tropical bar while still using the convex brick ceiling. The menu has the "Holy Trinity" for tropical drinks if you're not feeling too adventurous; Zombie, Navy Grog, and Mai Tai. But every drink listed has an illustration to give you an idea of what fun glass you're in for. There's beer on draft, mocktails, coffee, and soda available as well. They do announce a last call, the bar closes earlier on weekdays than weekends. Whilst there's no food inside, you are able to place an order next door at Taste of India and have it delivered. If you expect a posh, bright, and airy tiki bar, say a bar you'd find on the beach or poolside - this is not for you. This bar fits a tucked-away, original Trader Vic's inspired vibe. read more

Our second visit to this spirit oasis. Actually our 3rd, but the last time we came on a Saturday night...place was jam packed...opted for cocktails at home. Parking is a challenge now, as the once bowling alley/soon to be carwash has blocked off parking for Taste of India next door. A few spots in front, more on the street. This time, we brought 6 of our friends just as it opened (2pm yeah, day drinking...don't judge!!), after getting our bellies full at Lili's (see related review). After our eyes adjusted (it's dark, which fits the cool vibe), we grabbed a table, wandered to the bar for our first of a few rounds. As you can see from the menu on my last review, there a quite a few options, most familiar, some not...all look and taste delicious, from mild to knock you on your butt strong! This time went with the standard Mai Tai, followed up by the Cobra Fang, strong yet full of fresh flavors. Everything here is made fresh daily, from the mixes to the fruit garnish. By the time we left (3:30ish), the place was once again packed. Pele Utu has definitely hit it's stride and should be on everyone's rotation. read more

This is the Tiki bar you didn't know you needed! Seriously, what a fabulous addition to the biggest little city! It is unlike anything we have had here! I used to go to a place called Tikii-Ti, an LA icon, when I lived in Los Angeles many years ago. Pele Utu reminds me very much of Tiki-Ti for all the right reasons. But I think perhaps Pele Utu is a bit more welcoming! We were greeted by a loud "Aloha" when we walked in and were immediately wowed by what we saw. Everything about it oozed cool tiki vibes. My husband ordered the Lava Flow while I had the Chi Chi with raspberry. Not only were our drinks phenomenal, the bartender was pretty great, too! She told me how they took over the dirty bar that used to be there and spent 6 months transforming it with their own collection of kitschy art and knick-knacks. There is also a little stage where they occasionally have live performances. I asked about the surf band from Finland due to perform tomorrow night which we may go see. I was told they don't have cover charges-- how nice! And as others have mentioned, you can order take out at the Indian place next door and enjoy your meal at Pele Utu. We just may do that! read more

See all

Pele Utu is a nice little hidden gem in this part of town. I am not from Reno so as we were driving here I was a little worried when we turned onto to Stardust road as I just saw abandoned and fenced off building so wasn't sure we were in the right spot Once inside though we were definitely transported to a cool, hip and fun tiki bar. There was four of so we tried some different drinks and they were all very good. You could tell they were using top not h and fresh ingredients. I went with the classic Mai Tai and other people had the Zombie and Hurricane. The zombie can in a cool tiki glass with a flame! The only surprise was that it seemed to close pretty early. We went after dinner and were expecting in having a couple drinks and before we knew it they were shouting out last call. I think it was around 11 or 11:30, which is usually way past my bedtime, but on a Saturday seemed fairly early. read more

Pele Utu - Zombie and Hurricane - Tiki Bars Near Me - Reno, Nevada

Who doesn't love a tiki bar? So fun and retro and the drinks are delicious! Would like if they made it a little easier to find as it's tucked away. Also maybe a small light or two at the bar area. Love the dark, mysterious atmosphere but I couldn't read the menu. Overall great experience! read more

See all

Such a beat place! Service was great and bartender was so friendly. This place is pretty hidden in between the hotel and taste of India. Such a cool vibe with the live music that was playing (it was a cool launch party)! The drink menu had so much on there and the decor is for sure giving the tiki vibe! So fun! We got the blowfish drink and they are generous on the alcohol for sure. I highly recommend this place! read more

See all

I really enjoyed this business. The tiki bar vibe is just as great as some of the tiki bars I've been in in some major metropolitan cities. The drinks are hand crafted, come in cute glasses, and are STRONG! I had to have my husband drive us home and I only had one mai Thai. The service is great, the drinks are pricey but given the love put into them, it makes sense. The location is a little hidden, when looking for this place I wasn't sure I was headed to the right spot but thankfully my map gave me confidence. Some bigger signage might help. I found this bar because of its instagram page. I'll be back to try more drinks. It's a dark, cool place to go on a hot summer day. read more

Pele Utu - Tiki Bars Near Me - Reno, Nevada

What a great hidden gem for Reno! Who doesn't love a Tiki Bar? We sat at the bar, you need your cell phone to read the drink menu so many to choose from! I love the fancy drink glasses. The drinks are prepared with love and brings a smile to your face! The place is dark and intimate. Rosie and her husband own the place! It's just the two of them welcoming you to their hideaway and escaping life for a while. Rosie gave us some of her homemade bar snacks that were so good as you enjoy your drink! Such a fun spot, they open at 2pm - 11pm! Grab a friend and go enjoy a tiki drink! It a small scale of the old Trader Dicks. read more

See all

Good vibes. Good Chex mix. Good drinks. Shoutout KP (I think that's her name) she's a little moody tonight but damn she makes some great drinks! Love this place. read more

Pele Utu - Fog cutter, piña colada, zombie - Tiki Bars Near Me - Reno, Nevada

This new tiki bar is Reno is off the normal path and worth a visit. The entrance is unassuming and hidden between the Gateway Inn and Taste of India. It's well worth a visit! The bartenders are a husband and wife team with a serious passion for tiki. It's not corny, it's just a good vibe with every cocktail. read more

See all

Love all the touches from the mini oar to stir my drink to the kitschy lanterns hanging from the ceiling. The drinks are delicious. The ambiance is like nothing else in 'Renoville'. We were greeted warmly as we entered. The bartender really knows his craft. Great little find read more

See all

Amazing first time visit ! Live music, the VIBE IS OUT OF HAWAII for sure! Such a cute date night ! You can totally wear Hawaiian clothes to spice up the date night and energy! The drinks were perfect every time and delicious! I love the decor as well!!! It looks nonchalant outside but as soon as you open the door you step into enchantment! We went when it was really busy and for that reason it was really hard to get a drink but they did amazing for the small team! Must try!! read more

We stumbled on this local treasure of a tiki bar, looking for some pregame before a night out, and we're blown away if I just how authentic this killer tiki bar is, strangely tucked into a small entrance area of an old motel. But don't let that fool you. As soon as you walk over the small wooden bridge in the entrance, you will be transported to an absolutely authentic tiki bar with some of the best tropical drinks you'll ever have. Service was attentive, friendly, and fun. Reasonably priced, considering the significant work to handcraft each of the insanely delicious cocktails. Enjoy the trip!!! ALOHA!!! read more

See all

They weren't kidding about the strong drinks. This place was small but still amazing for my first experience. I happen to come in on Friday when they were playing live music. The service here was pretty fast given how crowded and packed it was and the staff were really friendly when trying to help choose our drinks. The cocktails were a bit pricier than your average bar but well worth it in my opinion. I'm definitely coming back soon! read more

Pele Utu - The tiki drinks that they offer - Tiki Bars Near Me - Reno, Nevada

See all

You feel like you've been transported to somewhere outside of Reno! Super fun bar off of keystone. I really liked all their drink options and the bartenders were super friendly. read more

Pele Utu - The chichi and pinky Gonzales - Tiki Bars Near Me - Reno, Nevada

See all

Pele Utu feels like a true tiki bar--fun, lively, and full of character. It's a little divey and a bit smoky, but that just adds to the atmosphere. With loud music, great décor, and fun bartenders, it's a spot that really delivers on the tiki bar experience. read more

The cocktails were SO good and pretty we had a girls night out here, it's right next to an Indian restaurant so when u do a round of drinks u can go eat next door :) they allow you to bring the food in also! You have to go to the bar to order the drinks but they are pretty fast at making it :) read more

See all

What a fun bar!! I visited Pele Utu with a small group; my brother, a friend, my fiancé, and I all went to grab a drink. Pele Utu is located around the building from Taste of India. (Apple Maps was a bit misleading with the directions.) W-O-W! The dimly lit, relaxed atmosphere transports you. Here, there is no Reno outside, as you listen to perfectly curated island tiki jams. The well-themed bar is ALL tiki! It would be a fun place to grab friends, grab a card game, and enjoy a couple drinks. Speaking of, the drinks are all innovative and interesting! I asked for a mocktail for my first drink. I was given a virgin Chi Chi. A drink where lime meets coconut and can be 'spruced up' with macadamia syrup. It was an interesting combo of flavors. I greatly enjoyed it! To be fair, all the drinks we each enjoyed were a flavorful, and unexpected combo. We had one that was like a strawberry smoothie with a fierce jalapeño bite as the finish. Deeeelish! The service was excellent. I think so far this gem hasn't exploded yet, just because people don't know about it! I don't expect that will be the case for long. If you're reading this, take a trip! Literally and figuratively. Mahalo! 9/10 recommend read more

See all

I have a soft spot for tiki bars, as thy are just so kitsch and delightful. So I was thrilled we finally got one back here in Reno. Pele Utu feels like a real throwback, and older-school kind of drinking establishment. They did such an amazing job renovating this building. The décor looks fantastic, and the ambiance is dim, cozy, and overflowing with colorful bric-a-brac. The menu has a good range of drinks, some more well known tiki drinks and other house specialties. They mix up a dynamite Mai Tai here, so you for sure should try that out. The Navy Grog and the Chi Chi are both very delightful. And I especially enjoyed the Hukilau Jim, which was just amazingly bright and flavorful. We even saw one table enjoying a big shared bowl, so might need to try that with my next group outing. Prices for everything seem pretty reasonable too, many starting in the $12-$16 range, with a few a bit more pricey. Ok, so let's address the smoking thing... Yes, this is indeed a smoking establishment, and yes that might dissuade some people from coming here or enjoying themselves. Can be a bit thick in here at times, but I'm generally pretty ambivalent about smoke, personally. And while one of my companions was having some trouble, I have been back here on a subsequent visit with a different friend, who is a smoker, who said they really appreciate having a smoke-friendly spot like this. So take the situation as you will. As some last points; Firstly, the service here was outstanding. The folks behind the bar are extremely friendly, and turn around time for orders is typically pretty quick. You do have to place all orders at the bar, as there is no table service. And parking might be a little tight on some nights, given their own lot is small and there is lots of construction next door, and so the street spots might be at a premium. So all in all, I definitely found Pele Utu a very fun and unique place, and glad they're part of the Reno drink scene. Definitely will be surfing back through. read more

Heck yes a real tiki bar in Reno! This place is great and the vibe is fun. Drinks are delicious and the prices are as expected, if not a dollar or two better. Lots of variety on the menu for sure, plus huge bowls for sharing. The Kona Kooler is a super fun tiki themed coffee drink. They have all of the other tiki gems including a Mai Tai, Zombie, Lava Flow, etc. It is a nice dark bar with all the fun tiki themed items to look at. Probably about 10 seats at the bar, another 8 or so tables and one bigger table for a group. It will be an awesome spot to grab a drink before or after dinner to do something different and fun. read more

We chose Pele Utu to celebrate my birthday this year, and it was the perfect spot. We started with the lunch buffet next door and then headed over to the tiki lounge. Our party theme was "island time," and we fit right in with the bar's tropical vibes. The Hukilau Jim was my favorite drink of the night. This place has that cozy hole-in-the-wall feel and a bit of divey charm, which made it perfect for our intimate hangout. The bartenders were no nonsense, super friendly, and gave great service. I will definitely be back. read more

See all

Everyone at this establishment was very kind. I was not a fan of the area & parking situation, so starting off I was a tad frustrated. Granted, it was a Saturday night so assuming more busy than normal which doesn't help the parking situation. The bar is on the smaller side, very dark so hard to read the menu if your eyes are over 30 years old, lol, but the decor was awesome, if you are into that sort of vibe. Drinks were a little more than average, but I really think you are paying more for the vibe vs just the drink. Overall, my friends and I enjoyed ourselves, this just isn't the establishment I would visit on the regular. read more

Pele Utu - Tiki Bars Near Me - Reno, Nevada