Hi folks, Sorry we have been not online for some time...it has been items such as schedules, work, private lives and other items that has set us back. We will work harder to bring you the shows and thanks for sticking with us. This episode, we will be talking about the Pago Pago cocktail and its origins. There was a time where in North America there was several tiki bars named Pago Pago and a few still stand today. The main item we discuss on the origin of this drink t=is two little islands in the Pacific ocean that are surrounded by the international date line. This imaginary line has gone through so many changes as to which areas it covers. So one of the islands West Samoa and the American Somoa islands are on opposite sides of this line. The capital city of American Somoa is Pago Pago. The line is by the way not a true straight line as you will see on any map. By the way depending who you reference the line it changes depend if its Google maps or other sources.  For the cocktail, we will give you not one or two recipes but 3 different recipes to this cocktail. Some ingredients can be hard if not impossible to find especially the Chartreuse.  On Mark's adventures: we finally get to a location in Canada. The Shameful Tiki Room in BC Canada is the next location Mark has adventured to and will give us a full report on. This unique bar (as there are not many at all of tiki bars in Canada) has tons of character, drinks, rums, music and décor to discuss. It has been operating for 10 years now and just has its anniversary celebration which Mark was part of. Links to the show: Recipes from the show: https://tikicentralcanada.ca/recipes-page-2/ International Date line YouTube video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aBppb2quqkE Mark's Adventures page: https://tikicentralcanada.ca/marks-tiki-page/

Hi guys, Sorry for the delay we had a recording session that was a bad recording and so we had to re-schedule this show to get a good recording. So this past year we lost a famous and pioneer in the tiki world, Harry Yee at the age of 104 years old. Wow, that in itself is an amazing accomplishment. Do you want to grow that old? I'm aiming for 100!! Anyways, on this show we will cover two of Harry's cocktails: Tapa Punch (1959) and Chimp in Orbit (1961), Tapa Punch was the first cocktail to have a parasol incorporated in a drink. The Chimp in Orbit was named after a chimpanzee also known as Ham the Chimp and Ham the Astrochimp, was the first Great Ape launched into space. Both of these drinks will include some Puerto Rician rum and Jamaican. We also get into Harry's life story and where and how he started his journey to the tiki world and some of the accomplishments he made along the way that we know and cherish today.  Here is a sample of some of these facts such as he flew in World War II for the Chinese air force. He also worked for Don the beachcomber and Trader Vic which we know are the pioneers of tiki. He then moved onto the Hilton Hawaiian Village Waikiki Beach Resort is a resort hotel on Waikiki Beach in Honolulu, Hawaii.  There several show including Hawaiian Eye and the movie Blue Hawaii were shot and Harry created drinks for them. He also was approached by Bols to create a nice tropical blue cocktail to go with their new Blue Curacao liqueur.  On "Did you know?" segment: we will give you some cools facts about Hawaii like did you know there are no snakes on the plane (ops, I meant island...sorry Samuel)!! There are also no billboards and they are the only state of USA that still honors a king!! and much more..... Links to the show: Recipes from this show: https://tikicentralcanada.ca/recipes-page-2/ The YouTube Video for Tapa Punch: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gMuelHTwFCU Another YouTube video for Tapa Punch: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=278HKOc3dHA Chimp In Orbit Cocktail YouTube video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Md8jpp9xS-Y&t=67s

Hey guys, We finally got this show out after Lockdown and other obstacles that delayed out show. We are glad to have Paola back on the show after she had to go back to Brazil for family affairs.  Today, we will give you two cocktails and also they both have one key ingredient in them. Bali Hai cocktail and Muerto Bali Hai (which is a spin off the original drink). Kahlua liqueur is used in both these drinks as it is National Kahlua Day February 27th. Now, I have a bad experience with this particular liqueur in my past. Do you remember that one spirit or liquor that you stay away from due to some dramatic event that happened with you at a young age. Kahlua is mine!! Listen tot he show to hear just what happened to me. So Bali Hai is a bar we covered previously on Mark's Adventures and has quit the background story. This bar was built originally for a movie crew filming  and needed their own watering hole after a long day of shooting the film. It then was taken apart and transported to Shelter Island, San Diego. This man made island started with "The Hut" (which is Bali Hai before it was named). It wasn't doing well and so a financial advisor came into the bar to evaluate the value of the bar. He saw the view on the upper 360 deck and said "Bali Hai". This reference is to the movie South Pacific where secluded island was called Bali Hai by the locals.  Mark tells this story better than me and so listen to his explanation of this bar.  Now the Bali Hai cocktail usually is served in a Mr. Bali Hai mug which Mark will explain its history. On "Did you Know?" segment: we cover the cool facts about Kahlua (yes, I know...I talk about the one thing I am not a fan of).  Cools facts like in Mexico the crops of coffee beans and sugar cane are across from each other and the locals have been combining them since 1936. Also, it is a key item in drinks like the White Russian, Black Russian, B-52 shooter, Espresso Martini, Brown Cow, Mudslide and more. You can also make your own Kahlua at home (why easier and last longer though to buy at the store, but if you want to experiment then we will tell you how).  Links to the show:  Mark's Adventures (Mr Bali Hai Bar): https://tikicentralcanada.ca/marks-tiki-page/ Recipes to the show: https://tikicentralcanada.ca/recipes/ Bali hai video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Q3bizWYER8Y Muerto Bali Hai video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SMjE3vjcTRk Origin of Kahlúa: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fmVKZMZr34g How to make Kahlua videos: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MCKEB5vSumo OR https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Y02xyNzYiK0 Beachbum Berry's Intoxica! Book by Berry, Jeff (2002) Spiral-bound: https://www.amazon.ca/Beachbum-Berrys-Intoxica-Berry-Spiral-bound/dp/B011WA29HS/ref=sr_1_1?crid=2K6I7BSI8VFR4&keywords=berry+intoxica&qid=1648504599&sprefix=berry+intoxica%2Caps%2C110&sr=8-1 Distinguished Spirits YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/c/DistinguishedSpirits Difference between Mezcal and Tequila YouTube video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ub0nPImpMlM

We are covering today the Singapore Sling. Yes, that classic drink you hear get ordered once in awhile at a bar but always wondered what is in this drink and where did it come from? Hmmm...Singapore! This classic cocktail doesn't exactly fall into the tiki cocktails but its tropical and we will talk about when, where and what has happened to this drink over the years. It was forgotten for awhile and but then re-surfaced with questions on its recipe. We go through what is a sling and its origin as well. Two great recipes we will discuss and give you below to try out and see which one you prefer. Now you are asking yourself what kind of gin would I use int his amazing drink, we will cover that too. We get into the Smuggler's Cove story about an amazing bar and actually the book as well which most bartenders call the "tiki bible" now. New Segment: Word Translation which we will do basic words and phrases and translate them into Hawaiian and Spanish for you to learn on those tropical trips down south. On "Did You Know?" we will cover some Polynesian facts and cool things like bread in a mailbox. Yes...you will have to find out why. recipes: Boon recipe: 1 1/2 oz Gin 1/2 oz Cherry Herring 1/4 oz Cointreau 1/4 oz Benedictine 4 oz pineapple juice 1/2 oz lime juice 1/3 oz grenadine, and dash Angostura Bitters smuggler’s Cove recipe: 1 1/2 oz Gin, 1/2 oz Cherry liqueur (brandy), 1/4 oz Benedictine, 1/4 oz Simple Syrup, 1/2 oz Lemon Juice, 2 oz Soda Water, dash Aromatic Bitters, dash Orange Bitters word translation: English to Spanish to Hawaiian: Hello: HOLA Aloha, Good bye: Adios Aloha, How are you? Como Estas Pehea’oe, Thank you: Gracias Mahalo

This great episode talks about one of the original drinks of tiki culture. Yes, as usual both Trader Vic and Don the Beachcomber have their spin on this drink and claim to have created it back in the 1940s. These recipes have many ingredients and boozy components to them. And what kind of glassware does such a drink go into and why? We will cover that and its history to that crazy tiki mug you always see. An ingredient we do discuss from this recipe is Pisco. What is Pisco? Find out! We give you an insight to what is Polynesian and its amazing history it has. The Polynesia region is in the Pacific Ocean which is the largest ocean in the world. We go over some cool facts that will blow you away ...literally! In Mailbag segment, we find out what is "tiki" means. Let us know what you think of this great show and if you have questions, please email them to me. Here are the recipes for the show: Trader Vic's Fogcutter: 2 oz lemon juice (Yes..I said lime on the show because I use lime over lemon), 1 oz orange juice 1/2 oz orgeat syrup 2 oz light rum, 1 oz brandy 1/2 oz gin, 0.5 oz sherry float Don the Beachcomber's Fogcutter: 2 oz lime juice 1 oz orange juice 1/2 oz orgeat syrup 2 oz GOLD rum, 1 oz Pisco, 1/2 oz gin, 0.5 oz sherry float

This episode covers the history of what we call the “Breeze” family (cocktails). In history, we have seen one cocktail being transformed into another by simply adding another spirit or ingredient to make a new cocktail. Drinks in this group are the Screwdriver (vodka & OJ), Cape Cod (vodka&cranberry), Bay Breeze (vodka, cranberry and pineapple juice), and finally the Sea Breeze (vodka, cranberry and grapefruit juice). These drinks also have modified throughout time and we talk about that. We cover the “dry shake” method of making cocktails. In this business, we see silly and strange laws that simply never apply, and we cover a few I seen or heard of in USA. We start a new segment titled: “Where did it come from?” that covers a rum from an international destination and some cool facts about it. We get a question about simple gin and tequila recipes to start with and I give up a new recipe for you all. A few links to check out about Chairman’s rum: https://chairmansreserverum.com/ or Mai Tai competition: https://youtu.be/b4INKC7etZo Plata Fresca recipe: 1 oz silver tequila, 0.5 oz maraschino liqueur (I use BOLS), 0.5 oz of Galliano liqueur, 0.5 oz lime juice and top with 7up (in a Collins glass or hurricane glass)

So today we talk about Canada's national drink: the Caesar. This is a great drink that everywhere you go there is a different spin on this great classic drink. Cam unfortunately is not on the show but we do have some guests (Chris Howell from Evoo Greek Kitchen and Landon from the Algonquin College Bartending Program). We go over the origin to the drink and the difference between a Caesar and a Bloody Mary. How it got its start. We cover some information on the Algonquin College program and what you can expect to get out of the program. We talk about some variance in the Caesar drink that you will see out there and some recipes of our own as well. Basic Caesar: 1-2-3-4-5 : 1.5 oz vodka, 2 dashes of Tabasco, 3 dashes of salt and pepper, 4 dashes of Worcestershire sauce, and 5 oz of Clamato juice. Landon's recipe: 1.5oz Vodka, 0.5oz pickle juice, 1-2oz of pineapple juice, 1.5oz of bold BBQ sauce, 4 dashes of worchestier sauce, 2 dashes of tobasco sauce, 5-6 shakes of salt and pepper, one shake of MTL steak spice Fill with "The Works" Clamato juice Rim with MTL steak spice and salt and pepper Garnish with bacon, shrimp, sausage and 2 spicy beans Chris' recipe: 1.5 oz Vodka, 0.5 oz lime juice, 2-3 dashes of Worcestershire, 1/2 tsp Horseradish, 1 tsp Maple Syrup, 2 dashes of Saline, 2 pinches pepper, 4-6 oz Clamato juice Rim: Ancho chiles, celery salt and sugar (My favourite rim but pick your favorite or available rim). Garnish, naturally, with maple bacon, lime and any other veggies of your liking (my partner loves pickles and pickled beans) Here is the link to the exciting Algonquin College Bartending Program: http://www.algonquincollege.com/hospitalityandtourism/program/bartending/

So, on this episode we are live from the Earl of Sussex!! This is our tenth episode and amazing we are still here…thanks to our listeners (Yes, you guys! And my mother). We have a special guest Rachelle O’Connor who is a wine expert and we will be talking about Sangrias. This refreshing drink goes back to the 1700 when water was not safe to drink so why not wine and juice! We get into what the differences are between red and white wines. How this amazing drink has changed over the years! We talk about what you can put into it to serve your guests at home. A cautionary tale that I’m sure all bartenders can relate to…Last Call!! Some cool facts about sangria you might not know (I didn’t). Rachelle’s personal recipe to try: (this makes a batch) • 1 oz brandy or cognac • 1 oz of any orange liqueur, Triple Sec or Grand Marnier (whatever you have on hand) • 1 bottle chilled sparkling wine - Cava or Prosecco • 1 bottle of white wine - I usually use Pinot Grigio • Lemon/lime soda water (to taste) • 7Up or Sprite (to taste - I don't like it to sweet) • orange, lime and lemon wedges and rounds) • A handful of frozen cranberries - they look great in the glass and keep it cool • a few sprigs of mint • Optional: Maple Syrup - 2 tablespoons to sweeten One of my favorite ones is this recipe: 1 oz vodka (flavoured like raspberry or green apple),2 oz Pinot Grigio wine, 0.5 oz apricot brandy, 2 orange juice, 2 oz cranberry juice and top with 7up/soda Couple of resources for sangria and wine: foodanddrink.ca (recipes and LCBO wine pairings), nataliemaclean.com (Rachelle’s wine reviews and others + blog + newsletter)

Hey folks, I just flew back from my trip to the Bahamas and man are my arms are tired. Yes that joke is as old as I am! This episode will cover the drink Bahama Mama and a few others from the great Bahamas. There are 700 islands in the Bahamas are we talk about at least three. One, owned by Eddie Murphy (you got not ice cream!) and one by the pigs! What? yes, find out why. The name is from a classic song back in the 30s and no not the Boney M version. Why are Americans drawn to these islands? Find out! Talk about a cool things to check out if you go visit there including the famous Senior Frogs bar. What does the Bahamas flag mean and something hidden in the coat of arms as well. These islands used to be a pirate haven and was home to a famous pirate...find out who! Even James Bond has a significance to these islands with the pigs of course! World famous Atlantis Resort with one of the world's biggest aquariums. In mailbag: how to make a sugar liqueur drink not so sweet! Recipes for the show: Bahama Mama: 1 oz white rum, 1 oz gold rum, 1 oz cream of coconut, 2 oz OJ, 2 oz pineapple juice, splash of grenadine (shaken) Goombay Smash: 2 oz Malibu rum, .25 oz light rum, .25 oz gold rum, .25 oz dark rum, 3 oz pineapple juice and 2 oz OJ (shaken) Liquid Steel: 1/2 pint of light beer, .5 oz triple sec, .5 oz peach schnapps, 1 cranberry juice, and .5 oz raspee puree (toss back and forth between two glasses to mix: do not shake this or build only this drink)

A nice surprise episode as we recorded this one on location of Evoo Greek Kitchen in Ottawa. With an amazing menu and cocktail selection, we got to sit down and talk with head bartender and mixologist Chris Howell. We get to talk about the classic tiki cocktail that was there from the beginning: The Zombie!!! We get in discussions about the drink, its history, tiki culture in general, rum (of course), and cool facts about Chris Howell and the "Made for Love" competition he was recently in. What is this competition? You will have to find out for yourself.

New episode and.. hey new mics...let us know if we are new and improved in our comments!! Today, we talk about the tiki drink made in 1970: The Pain Killer (yes second generation tiki drink). This cool drink has an interesting origin that you won't believe unless you swim right up to it. Don't forget your passport! We have refresh the information on Pusser's rum and its origin as well. Bartender's Pet peeves that we all agree are just that!!Cautionary take that leave everything but the kitchen sink covered. Finally, some cool facts about a game that goes all the way back to Black Beard the pirate. Check us out and leave us some feedback on what you think....

Pina Colada!! Pina Colada!! So good news, Cam is back!! WE discuss today about the cool refreshing summer drink: Pina Colada. The creation has two stories from pirates (yes my favorite subject) or a bartender in Puerto Rico at the Beachcomber Bar. we also talk about spin offs of this great drink from my version to St. Maarten version: Guavaberry Colada. We give you some interesting facts about the island including the Maho Beach airport and bar...very cool! Is a Pina Colada a blended drink? Find out!! Find out just how St. Maarten gets divided up by the French and Dutch. It will leave you puzzled. We give an insight as well to what to do when you travel and how much alcohol you can bring back with you.

Hey Guys, Sorry for the delay...unfortunately there is no Cam (co-host) for this episode but a guest co-host Norma (my girlfriend..yes!). Just got back from Cuba and so we discuss Cuba and amazing things about it. The drink we will cover on this episode is the Cuba's famous Mojitos. Things we will go over in this episode: about Fidel Castro and why are there only classic cars in Cuba?? We talk about bar lingo and what to do when ordering a drink. So give us a listen and let us know how well Norma did...life saver for me!!!

Hi guys, So this episode is different than our usual format as we discover all the information and research we do to make the show and get the details you crave to hear. Paola is away on family matters but Mark and I will take you on adventure of our tiki library we both have some of the books that we dig deep into on a weekly basis for our show. We talk about pioneers of tiki in North America to today's version of the tiki bible.  We do start of with two recipes for you (what would the show be without drinks). The recipes we are covering are in the very books we are talking about today. I will cover the Jeff Beachbum Berry's The Caribbean cocktail and Mark will cover the Riptide cocktail from the "Minimalist Tiki" book written by Matt Pietrek and Carrie Smith. Both are very tiki as they need crushed ice and one of my favorite ingredients: ginger syrup (Yummy)!!! So here are the books that Mark will cover today: 1) Jeff Beachbum Berry's "Sippin' Safari" book: this book is a great book for those who are starting into tiki or not a bartender by trade but just a curious individual as we once was. It goes quickly into tiki recipes that Jeff has dug up throughout his ten year research and some of the syrups you may need as well. This book is very small as it is only 184 pages with index.  2) Jeff Beachbum Berry's "Remixed" book: this book continues on with recipes and some brief tiki history on the creators of tiki in North America. It is a combination of his "Grog Log" book and "Intoxica" book. He has expanded drink history and lore, incorporating newly discovered information about the origins of the Mai Tai, Zombie, Suffering bastard, and other legendary Tiki mysteries. 3) Jeff Beachbum Berry's "Taboo Table" book: Beachbum Berry uncovers the forgotten secret food recipes from Polynesian restaurants of days gone by. Beachbum Berry's Taboo Table is a cookbook. Taboo Table features famous "lost" and exotic recipes (most ironically created in the USA) for appetizers, entrees and desserts. There is also a fascinating and informative history of tiki cuisine from the first Polynesian settlers to the last remaining Polynesian restaurants. 4) "Smuggler's Cove" by Martin and Rebecca Cate: This more modern version of tiki and recipes is brought to us by Martin who as jeff did his homework on tiki culture, history and cocktails. He especially well known rum expert as his own private collection of rums around the world comes in over 300 bottles. This book is more for the professional bartender who wants to get into tiki or the step from Jeff's books with more elaborate cocktails, syrups, ingredients and  recipes. It is a heavier read coming in with 352 pages including index. Every tiki expert or bartender should have a copy of this new tiki bible on their shelf.  5) "Minimalist Tiki" book written by Matt Pietrek and Carrie Smith is also a newer version of tiki bringing the mixology part of the cocktail and new techniques into it. It also features a library of tiki bar's bartenders recipes such as Shameful Tiki Room in Toronto. These secret recipes that we love so much in these oasis bars is now available for you to make at home too.  Craig's List of Books:  1) "Potion of the Caribbean" by Jeff Beachbum Berry; This more elaborate book covers the history of drinks/cocktails and spirits too back to the Aztec days to modern time. It will give you a history of rum, pirates, royal navy, Polynesian, and Caribbean history to get you up to speed on the tiki history and its culture. He goes into more recipes that he has found through so many resources in the past years of Don the Beachcimber to Trader Vic's and so many more... 2) "Trader Vic's Tiki Party!: Cocktails and Food to Share with Friends" written by Stephen Siegelman NOT Trader Vic. This book is a great book for beginners to expert of tiki who want to know how to throw a tiki party or create their own oasis tiki bar at home. It covers some history of Trader Vic and his recipes. This book also goes into decor, food, drinks and everything you would need to know to throw a party.  3) "And a Bottle of Rum" by Wayne Curtis. This is not a bartender book and there recipes in this book but very few. This book is a history lesson into rum from its origin to modern day cocktails. It has exciting adventurous facts about some of our culture's drinks we didn't know had a history like the Daquiri from the Royal Navy to Grog to Mojitos in Cuba created by tribesmen to Cuba Libre (Rum and Coke) to guide to rum. It is a must have for those rum experts out there so you can get your facts straight.  4) "The New Craft of the Cocktail: Everything You Need to Know to Think Like a Master Mixologist" by Dale Degroff: THis is not a tiki book but an book written by another man who gave cocktails a resurgence in the late 80s to modern day. Dale worked in New York city and as most of us was tired if artificial drinks and ingredients. Cocktails in the 70's and early 80's took a back seat to clubs/ dance bars and live entertainment. Dale brought classics cocktails back into popularity and start what we know as mixologist as a profession. He explains every spirit in where it came from, its feature elements and even some drinks to be in use for. He goes into techniques and garnishes. He even goes into types of ice and which one to use when. His cocktails are world famous especially the Cosmopolitan cocktail.  There you go on some details we will cover in this episode. Links:  Sippin Safari JBB: https://www.amazon.ca/Beachbum-Berrys-Sippin-Safari-Berry/dp/1593620675/ref=sr_1_1?crid=2315WFTIKV063&keywords=beach+bum+berry%E2%80%99s+sippin%E2%80%99+safari&qid=1646083058&sprefix=beachbum+berry+s+sippin+safari+%2Caps%2C87&sr=8-1 Remixed JBB: https://www.amazon.ca/Beach-Bum-Berrys-Remixed-Gallery-ebook/dp/B00JL58D7M/ref=sr_1_2?crid=2315WFTIKV063&keywords=beach+bum+berry%E2%80%99s+sippin%E2%80%99+safari&qid=1646083087&sprefix=beachbum+berry+s+sippin+safari+%2Caps%2C87&sr=8-2 Taboo Table: https://www.amazon.ca/Beach-Berrys-Taboo-Table-2013-01-01/dp/B01FGKWJJS/ref=sr_1_1?crid=8HAQ83UNSXL&keywords=beach+bum+berry%27s+taboo+table&qid=1646083126&sprefix=beachbum+berry%27s+taboo+table%2Caps%2C104&sr=8-1 Smuggler’s Cove: https://www.amazon.ca/Smugglers-Cove-Exotic-Cocktails-Cult/dp/1607747324/ref=sr_1_1?crid=2DMK0ZV4AD8T6&keywords=Smuggler%27s+Cove%3A+Exotic+Cocktails%2C+Rum%2C+and+the+Cult+of+Tiki&qid=1646083160&sprefix=smuggler%27s+cove+exotic+cocktails%2C+rum%2C+and+the+cult+of+tiki+%2Caps%2C89&sr=8-1 Minimalist Tiki: https://www.themodernbartender.com/minimalist-tiki-book.html Potions of the Caribbean JBB: https://www.amazon.ca/Beachbum-Berrys-Potions-Caribbean-Berry/dp/1603113800/ref=sr_1_1?crid=1W9EIS781AOO4&keywords=potions+of+the+caribbean&qid=1646083327&sprefix=potions+of+the+%2Caps%2C72&sr=8-1 The New Craft of the Cocktail: Everything You Need to Know to Think Like a Master Mixologist, with 500 Recipes Dale Degroff: https://www.amazon.ca/New-Craft-Cocktail-Everything-Mixologist/dp/1984823574/ref=sr_1_1?crid=21G0H1TQYIWDR&keywords=dale+degroff&qid=1646083352&sprefix=dale+de%2Caps%2C77&sr=8-1 Trader Vic’s Tiki Party by Steve Siegelman: https://www.amazon.ca/Trader-Vics-Tiki-Party-Cocktails/dp/1580085563/ref=sr_1_1?crid=3SFC56CJQYREG&keywords=trader+vic%27s+tiki+party&qid=1646083414&sprefix=trader+vic%27s+tiki%2Caps%2C73&sr=8-1 And a Bottle of Rum, Revised and Updated: A History of the New World in Ten Cocktails Wayne Curtis: https://www.amazon.ca/Bottle-Rum-Revised-Updated-Cocktails/dp/0525575022/ref=sr_1_2?crid=3BAQNFWELERIM&keywords=and+a+bottle+of+rum&qid=1646083461&sprefix=and+a+bott%2Caps%2C252&sr=8-2 The Modern Bartender website: https://www.themodernbartender.com/ OH here si the link for the mini ice cube tray I just purchased..this is great substitute for crushed ice in cocktails: https://www.amazon.ca/gp/product/B07BQHC617/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_asin_image_o05_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1

On this episode, we will cover drink Tom Collins with its history and recipe. How is this a tiki drink? Listen and find out! We will go over gin and its history. What is gin and where did it come from? Tools of the trade: pour spout and yes there is different types. A pet peeve of a bartender when it comes to preparing drinks. A cautionary tale that will leave you streaking for the truth. Some cool facts about gin and even a second drink on the show Jamaican Cherry: 1.5 oz coconut rum .5 oz of bols maraschino cherry liqueur 1 oz simple syrup 1 oz lime juice two dashes of grenadine in the glass before the ice and vanilla bean soda (got mine from superstore/bulk barn) to top it off

On this episode, we talk about the history of rum, the Caribbeans, and pirates. We get into the history of pirates and how countries created them and battled them as well. We talk about the Daiquiri and its roots. We get knee deep into shakers and which one to use. Some cool facts about pirates and legends of pirates. On Mailbag segment, add the spicy cinnamon taste to that cool summer's drink.

This episode covers the history of Mai Tai. The ingredients that makes one and you will be surprised what is not in it. An interesting talk about ice (yes...ice) and strainers. A wild outdoor in the woods "cautionary tale" and good bar etiquette. Learn how the navy used rum to pay their sailors and yes, it did come to an end...Noooo!

Tiki Central Canada is a about tiki drinks, culture, methods and of course rum. Craig Stephens is the host (been in the hospitality industry for over 25 years mostly behind the bar. Cameron Warriner is the co-host (lived in Vancouver but then moved to Ottawa and is man with the questions and funny wit). They will discuss tiki drinks, culture, bar ingredients and tools to make those refreshing drinks we all love in the summer.

Hi Folks, We are doing a special show on the South Pacific Punch and the movie as well. Why South Pacific? This movie back in the 50s and "Blue Hawaii" with Elvis Presley made a major influence on North America culture and international to tiki culture and Polynesian crazy!!! We talk about two cocktails for this show: South Pacific Punch and the Castaway!! Both the drinks are from the Jeff Beachbum Berry "Remixed" book. Jeff is also another influence that brought back tiki to us. These cocktails use a wide range of Caribbean islands and also classic ingredient Falernum. I still have to make mine but if you can get it in the liquor store, I recommend it as it's shelf life last longer.  On "Mark's Adventures" segment: we talk about no bar!!???? Yes, we don't talk about a bar but a company that gave all those tiki bars décor we know. Oceania Arts has been around for over 50 years and by the same owners who finally hanging it up for retirement. Robert Van Oosting and LeRoy Schmaltz started carving  Palm Frond masks out of their garage to sell. It grew and have supplied décor to tiki bars we know such as Trader Vic’s, The Mai Kai, Don the Beachcomber, the Coco Palms in Hawaii, and The Tonga Room in San Francisco, but also Foundation Bar in Milwaukee, the Bali Hai remodel in San Diego, Hale Pele in Portland. Disneyland's  Trader Sam’s Bar and the Tangaroa Terrace as well as Walt Disney World. Mark has visited this location and even came back with a blow fish light (jealous!!). In "Did You Know?" segment: we go in depth the movie South Pacific. It was released in 1958…and grossed over $36 million as a musical production. The filmed featured a lot of big names at the time but one in particular: Ray Walston (Mr. hand and My Favorite Martian). It also featured Russ Brown, Tom Laughlin, Rossano Brazzi, and Ken Clark. A few details that will blow you away including the singing voice of the Gringe sung by Thurl Ravenscroft who also sings for Ken Clark's character in the movie. Links to the show:  The recipes: https://tikicentralcanada.ca/recipes/ South Pacific songs YouTube video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AeXvaHZj5tw Example of a Palm Fronds mask video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1jn6k-RFR3M Ray Walston In Fast Time at Ridgemont High YouTube video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6J8__fWphE0 Oceanic Arts website: https://www.oceanicarts.net/ YouTube video Oceanic Arts warehouse: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BkUiRPW-ISw

Hi guys,    Welcome to 2022 and our season 5 for us now!!! We are so excited about this year as we have dedicated to giving you more shows and more amazing cocktails. We will also be including more interviews from bartenders and tiki experts.    This episode has tons of information and cool facts but an amazing colorful cocktail that you got try. We will be covering the Royal Hawaiian cocktail and details about the hotel as well in Hawaii.    First off, the cocktail is got a Canadian product which is amazing considering this is an international cocktail and so makes me proud to see we are on the international platform on a tiki level. It has a great combination of pineapple juice, orgeat (almond), lime juice and Empress gin (which is a purple colorful floral gin that is not so booze forward). This cocktail definitely tastes tropical and looks colorful as well. Break out your crushed ice bag as you will need it for this cocktail or in Paola's case go to your fridge and grab some crushed ice.  Recipe came from Jeff Beachbum Berry “Remixed book and The Royal Hawaiian Cocktail was originally called the Princess Kaiulani in the early 1920’s but was renamed in the 1950s.    Recipe to this cocktail and many more: https://tikicentralcanada.ca/recipes/    So we go over some cool facts about the hotel itself like that it cost $4 million to build in 1927 (which in today's dollars is $15,325,495) . It was also known as the “Pink Palace of the Pacific” which was a Portuguese influence on its architectural design. It also was the location for the famous Webley Edwards’ then-famous radio program Hawaii Calls, featuring the Singing Surfriders and the Waikiki Maidens, and up to 3,000 tourists at a time would pack the courtyard to watch the show. Mark will give us more information on Edwards who was the first report Pearl harbor attack back during WWII which the hotel was home to US navy officers as well.    On "Did you Know?" segment: we talk about Captain James Cook who had 3 voyages around the world. On January 18th, 1778, Captain James Cook arrives in Hawaii. He was an explorer that navigated the Pacific Ocean and mapped out New Zealand. He also mapped out Newfoundland which those maps are still used today by naval ships. His first voyage was to help determine the distance from the Earth to the sun during an eclipse of Venus on the sun. Don't ask me how that is done as its all science. I must have missed that class. Anyways, he went on his second voyage and landed in Australia and third was Hawaii. He has come controversial stories behind his death as the tribes killed him on his second trip to Hawaii.    Links to the show:  Webley Edwards’ Hawaii calls show:  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MMXBWLZngFg&t=252s  Hawaii calls: exotic instrumentals (1961) Webley Edwards exotica:  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8uhe0SnC5To&t=92s  Hawaii calls greatest hits:  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_OLhG3q4uDc&list=OLAK5uy_n4NQZtaIybiWIdlLRHAS0hOebIVAGLZzk   Cocktail links: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fXaoo-5qGDM and  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mFPTowpKgoI  Royal Hawaiian hotel video walk thru: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9eHJbBtn3DY  History of Captain James Cook: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KVUJkcy5dq8  Cocktail recipe page: https://www.reservebar.com/blogs/all-cocktail-recipes/empress-1908-royal-hawaiian  

Hey Guys, Yes we squeezed in our last show of the year...Christmas!!!  What a year and we want to thank all of loyal listeners who hanged in there with us through this rough year and we wasn't able to do as many shows as we wanted. But next year, right!!! Surprise for all your loyal listeners from way back...Cameron visits the studio and gives his input on the drinks today since Santa (me wink wink) dropped off a care package to his house. By the way, apparently Cameron likes to be in a onesie enjoying his morning tea outside in the morning LOL!!! Ok, so this is our Christmas show and we are going to talk about shooters. No not guns and ammo shooters but shots. Now, you maybe be asking, Craig is shooters tiki? well no there are not!! In fact, in my research and Mark's knowledge that most tiki bars don't have shooters on the menu. So why are we doing shooters? Well, this time of year and finally this year we was able to have company Christmas parties or friends get togethers...and one of the first things I get asked as a bartender is shooters!!! Now, what is a shooter? and is that the same as a shot? Well, no they are different: shot is a straight amount of an spirit or liqueur...a shooter is a mini cocktail in a way and has mixed items into a shot glass. So an example would be a blue Hawaiian can be made into a shooter!! So we will go over 4 shooters for you to try out that will get the party started!! Shooters are: Caramilk, Scooby Snack, Apple Pie a la Mode, and a Craig's Creation: La Petite Fleur!!! On "Did you know?" segment: we talk about cool facts about shooters such as it started in the 60s when the new generation wanted to party it up and wasn't to interested in the drinks but to get drunk and fast!!! We also talk about Jager and Irish car bombs cocktails. So please enjoy your holidays and be safe...get some rest and have a great time with friends and family! Happy holidays from us to you and see you in the new year!!! Links: Recipes: https://tikicentralcanada.ca/recipes/ Youtube video for the Scooby Snack shooter: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FgSjNxMEXT0 YouTube video for the Caramilk shooter: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qSdmWoACMjQ

Hi Guys, So this is a special episode as we get a special guest joining us to talk about cocktails, cruise ships, martinis and even Martini Airbnb. The shows is a bit lengthy but well worth it as we talk about cocktails and bartending..my two favorite things...well ok...maybe a beach as well...ok two out of three of my favorite things!!! So,  this is a different format to our show then our usual one. Yes, we still are going to talk about drinks of course. One of the cocktails that you might order on a cruise ship is a Miami Vice cocktail. Now, this cocktail is new to me and I'm sure I have had it but Jason goes through exactly what it takes to make one of these delicious tropical drinks that you would find on a cruise ship. It is basically a Pina Colada and a Strawberry Daquiri combined. I thought it would easy with those slushy machines you see at the resort but as Jason tells us that it's difficult drink to make with just blenders as you have to make both drinks and then combine them. But trust me, it is worth the effort. We also go through some alterations such as mango instead of strawberry...yummy!!! By the way, ask your bartender first if they even have blenders before asking for a frozen drink. LOL So we go in-depth with Jason about his beginnings and how he became a bartender, flair and fire breathing, martini expert, to being bar manager of a fleet of cruise ships and now owning his own Airbnb and an online martini shop. He struggled through COVID but now is doing his own thing. He explains the journey and some things about bartending that most people don't know or think about.  On "Did you know?" segment: we talk about the classic 80s show Miami Vice which for us was a show that impacted our lives. It could have been the music, the fashion or even the famous stars that brought this show to life. We all remember on Friday night turning on our TVs and watching the newest episode. We go over cool facts like who got offered the roles of Crockett and Tubbs. What the actors had to go through to play the roles, famous seasons and some famous names that have made appearance on the show. Links to the show: Recipes: https://tikicentralcanada.ca/recipes/ Jason's Martini website for online shopping (starting soon so get your email registered): https://mymartinihouse.com Check him out on Facebook where he has some great pictures of the Airbnb theme to cocktails and some instructional videos on martinis: https://www.facebook.com/martinisrus A must see scene from the first episode of Miami Vice featuring "In the Air Tonight" (for me this is a memory for life: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-aMCzRj3Syg YouTube Video of famous people who appeared on the Miami Vice before their fame: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=P00RAWfFvF0 You can also check out the themed rooms Jason has at his Airbnb through the following links: https://www.airbnb.com/h/mymartinihouse203 https://www.airbnb.com/h/mymartinihouse202 https://www.airbnb.com/h/mymartinihouse301 https://www.airbnb.com/h/mymartinihouse302 Thanks again to Jason Pierotti for being on the show and maybe some day we come visit you!!!! and Jason...does Mark really sound like Donald Sutherland...folks you be the judge!!!

Hi Guys, You ever wonder while listening to our show what its would sound like uncut and just how much editing does Craig do?? Well, due to finally recording live at Paola's house and some laptop experiences getting back to the right sound we ended up with a mono channel recording that I basically can't edit and is a  raw file. I also wasn't being a good sound engineer and was clipping here and there on this recording...now, don't panic as its still a great show and tons of fun we had making it...just my OCD tells me not the best sound quality that I put into the show! We also got back our sound engineer for post (lost due to COVID as he shut down his studio in USA) and so he was able to clean it up more!!! Ok, enough about that..as I say : Let's go onto the show!!! Today's episode is one of my favorite holidays of the year and yes, it is in the fall season which is my favorite season.... Day of the Dead is a Mexican celebration that does coincide with Halloween but let's make it clear: it is NOT Mexico's Halloween or Independence day either! It's a joyful celebration for the deceased and help them to their journey to the after life. Now, what a minute Craig isn't dead after life...well in their culture the afterlife is actually 9 levels to the end of their journey and so this is one way to have the living spend time with their spirits and help them on their way. They celebrate with music, food, drinks and even sleep at their loved one's graves.... The cocktails we are doing today are two for this occasion (I want to say that as I don't do holiday themed drinks. Never have). First one is called ...you guessed it....Day of the Dead from the The Shameful Tiki Room in Vancouver Canada. We will explain how I got this recipe...quit the story thanks to Mark. The other cocktail is called: The Alebrije  which has its own story. This one I got online and I will add a link below to the video. So you ask, what is this Alebrije  and what is story behind it. well if you watch CoCo (Disney's movie for the DOD) you will see a fantasy creature in it that is a mix of a dog and cat that looks like a flying jaguar. These creatures are called Alebrije and help guide the deceased spirits to the next level of their journey. Cool right!! On Mark's adventures segment: We will talk about The Ventiki Tiki Lounge and Lanai in Ventura,  California. It is right beside an amazing taco place which for Mark is a bonus!!!! He got to meet the owner Dwayne Couch and chatted about tiki and which drinks to have next with him and several locals during both visits. Link of this interview (conversation) is listed below. On "Did you Know?" segment: We talk about some cool facts about Day of the Dead such as it was originally created back in Aztec time as was on the 9 month and not in November. It wasn't til Spain brought the Christian ways into their culture and they merged the two celebrations together with All Souls Day and All Saints Day. The celebration pays tribute to Mictecacihuatl (She is known as the "Lady of the Dead") which watches over the celebration and world of the spirits.  By the way, today’s female figure we see today: la calavera Catrina (by the Mexican printmaker, cartoon illustrator and lithographer José Guadalupe Posada.) is the today’s representation of “lady of the Dead”. In these ceremonies, people build altars in their homes with ofrendas, offerings to their loved ones’ souls. Candles light photos of the deceased and items left behind. Families read letters and poems (called Calaveritas ) and tell anecdotes and jokes about the dead. Offerings of tamales, chilis, water, tequila and pan de muerto, a specific bread for the occasion, are lined up by bright orange or yellow cempasúchil flowers, marigolds, whose strong scent helps guide the souls  home. Why Marigolds? Well, it is said the scent and color draw the spirit back to their alters/graves where their loved ones waiting help celebrate with them that day. Yeah, how can you not love this holiday? Links to the show: Recipes: https://tikicentralcanada.ca/recipes/ Alebrije cocktail YouTube video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hMIMWbNsgSM History of the DOD youtube video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ale9DF9fZY8 Pan de Muerto (day fo the dead bread) Youtube video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=G-398T9q-cM Link to Mark's interview with Dwayne Couch from the The Ventiki Tiki Loung: https://mega.nz/folder/yDYRkAKB#no5USMekhYarpZVbffi8Xw/file/aWZHQSTR Poems for the DOD: https://www.joincake.com/blog/day-of-the-dead-poems/  

Hey guys, We are back and yes it has been awhile!! Our apologize!!! On this episode we are going to be talking about Daniel Craig's last James Bond movie (No Time to Die) with no spoilers (since Mark hasn't seen it yet)!!! The cocktail we will talk about are the Casino Royale (which is not a James Bond drink be say but a Dale Degroff cocktail) and Vesper (which is from Casino Royale movie which was Daniel Craig's first James Bond movie he did). Both these cocktails are ritzy yes and not tiki (but I do alter one to make it into a tiki cocktail...more about that in the show).  Now, who is Dale Degroff you may ask. Well, besides one of my favorite bartenders of all time and inspiration to me. He is also the bartender back in the 70s that took cocktails out of the club scene era it was in with artificial flavors and ingredients and brought it back to real ingredients and layers and excitement in our profession!!! If you think about it, bartenders lost some creditability during the disco era due to clubs and drugs (yes cocaine).  He is also well known for the cosmopolitan, which strangely he did not create but altered into what we know now of that cocktail.  For the cocktails, we do a recipe with champagne in the Casino Royale but don't panic as I give you alternatives options in the new version of the drink which will be in Craig's Creation section of our website and I finally called it "Full Deck" which means we are not playing with a "full deck" LOL!!!! In "Did You Know?" section: we discuss cool facts about Daniel Craig as James Bond like his reaction to the phone call from the producers telling him that he will be the next Bond. The fact that a pair of gloves in Skyfall almost cost the production company millions of dollars in reproduction, or that Daniel was a talking Stormtrooper in "The Force Awakens".  Links to the show: Recipes to the show: https://tikicentralcanada.ca/recipes/ Craig's Creation page: https://tikicentralcanada.ca/craigs-creation/ Daniel Craig's as a Stormtrooper in "Force Awakens" scene video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iq7MaKlvE5o Dale Degroff's book on our cool link: https://tikicentralcanada.ca/cool-links/ How to Drink YouTube video on Vesper cocktail: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=T1rtEeSpswk&t=63s Being James Bond Trailer: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QOHhIkMy6dg Go check out the new James Bond in the theaters...it's a must see!!!!

Hey guys,  Not our normal show as there are no drinks but I did put a Craig's Creation cocktail on our site just in case you was in a mood for a new cocktail.  This is our annual trivia show where we see if our tiki panel (Paola and Mark) and you was listening to our show all year long and made some notes and this year is just as challenging as the past years. Topics like the Cosmopolitan cocktail, Grog, Mint Julep, Day of the Dead, Don the Beachcomber, Mariano Lucudine, Harry Yee, Cinco de Mayo and so much more... We will help you this year with a hint of what episode each question came from and the cocktail of that show. So, print off the trivia sheets and see if you have what it takes to be tiki god and year champion of trivia. (NOTE: answers are upside down at the bottom of that page).  By the way, check out past year's tiki trivia shows as well and see if you know the answers to those ones as well... Triva page link: https://tikicentralcanada.ca/tiki-trivia/ By the way, there is no prize for winning but make yourself a cocktail and play along and see if you can out score our panel!!! Craig's Creation page: https://tikicentralcanada.ca/craigs-creation/

Hey guys, This show is a little different then our usual show as we do our annual "Talk Like a Pirate" day show with our pirate expert and Canadian Navy Lieutenant Commander Rob Brunner and his wife Erica. Both are part of pirate society here in Canada and their crew called the "Cut and Run". Talk Like a Pirate day is September 19th every year internationally.  This show is a bit longer than our usual show but pack full of information and fun facts about pirates!!! So Ahoy, Matey and Shiver me timbers! The cocktail we will be discussing today is called Bumbo (which yes is a rum from our rum tasting show we did that comes from Barbados). This cocktail is a spin off of the Royal Navy Grog which was rationed out each day on British navy ship back in the days!! We give you the history of how "talk Like A Pirate" day started. Bumbo rum! What is it and where does it come from? Listen to find out about this delicious rum! We go through an old school recipe (piracy era) and new school recipe of the Bumbo which has rum, water, spices, sugar and tons of flavor! Pirate legends: In this segment we give your all the juicy details about some famous pirates that we all know and grew up with in movies, books and stories. Black beard, Captain henry Morgan (yes, the guy on the rum bottle which actually didn't have a lot to do with rum til later), and Sir Francis Drake who was the first to circumnavigate the globe!!! Erica goes into great detail about two female famous pirates that had quit the adventure and maybe fouled people by dressing up as men. They had the reasons and she goes into why they did this. They also have more speculation and tales then facts on some of their journey as the history books couldn't put information together. But, it's a great story and Erica tells it to us!! Now, most important thing to do on TLAP day if anything you do is get yourself a pirate name. Rob and Erica break down their name and they challenged us to come up with ours as well. Slippy Stephens here will be my name from here on now or so be the black spot be ah cursed upon me!!! We go through just how to do and not use these typical name generators out there. Have fun with it and make your co-workers and family call you that for the day!! On "Did you know?" segment: We cover all the positions on a pirate ship and navy ship today as well that you would see. Captain, Quarter Master, Pusser, Boatswain, Carpenter (who would also be in charge of amputations...ouch), Sailing Master, Coopers, Cabin Boys and finally Powder Monkeys (not real monkeys ha ha).  Links to the show: Rob Brunner's magazine article he writes about pirates and navy (in the magazine it's French on left column and English on right column and Rob's pirate name is William Blydes in the articles: https://fliphtml5.com/homepage/gybp?fbclid=IwAR0tallgpfoFbWE1kTrJzKvrPfWrEJjS7iNSCqHWju9XuQmtmjA923pEiWs Rob and Erica's "Cut and Run" Youtube video on knots and pirate games: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=B4tn1porX-8 Recipes for the show: https://tikicentralcanada.ca/recipes/ So remember: dead men tell no tales and enjoy your  clap of thunder!!!!

Hi folks and Happy New Year, This is our 5th year doing the show and wow we have gone through a lot in that time!! I was hoping we would have cracked 100th last year but it's coming!! Ok, enough about that, this show is part two of Mark's adventures to Hawaii.... We will do two cocktails on this show for you from there. We need to do some Mai Tai cocktails of course and so we are giving you two versions of Trader Vic's Mai Tai. Now wait a minute Craig, I thought there is one original and all the other are spin offs of that but how can the same man make different versions of his drink? Well, I will tell you, the reason is the rums that he purchased to make the original Mai Tai cocktail were specific rums from specific parts of the Caribbean and through time those rums depleted. So, he had to start all over with new rums and maybe change some of the mixes to compliment those new rums. Also, tourism is a factor in creation of tropical drinks as they want something more main stream and ingredients that they would know and already have a craving for.  Remember, NO grenadine though ok!!! So we will do 1956 version of the drink with specific regional rums and the next one will be 1961 and the rums will be more general and the mixes will change as well.  We find out just what does Mark put in his version of the Mai Tai and his thoughts on many Mai Tais that he did try out while he was in Hawaii.  We explain what is Rocky Candy syrup which was a common ingredient back in those days in some of the recipes you will find. It's very simple (lol) to make!!! We discuss the secrecy that was back then to keep competitors or clients wondering just what is in this drink. I ask Mark on his thoughts as to why is the Mai Tai the Hawaiian tiki drink ??? On "Mark's Adventures" segment: we discuss great small place Mark found called "Tahiti Nui". We discover another strong willed woman ran this place and had things like Pot lucks and live music to keep the clients coming back for more. This long running bar has a lot of history in it and Mark dived right in to find out more!!! Links to the show:  Recipes for this show: https://tikicentralcanada.ca/recipes-page-2/ Mark's Adventure page: https://tikicentralcanada.ca/marks-tiki-page/ Tahiti Nui website: https://www.thenui.com/ YouTube Video of Tahiti Nui restaurant: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UqqyRNFkcHo

Hey guys, Sorry for the delay as COVID is still playing havoc with running a bar but that's another story!! This episode we will be talking about Disney land and park but more specifically Trader Sam's bars that are featured in those areas. The Enchanted Tiki room gets some coverage as well in this show and so we have all the bases covered for your trip to Disney. We do two of the Trader Sam's cocktails: The Castaway Crush and the Rosita's Margarita. The Castaway cocktail was a three thumbs up by all of us and a definite addition to any tiki party or for yourself to enjoy on that nice summer night (OK, it's fall soon but you know what I mean)!! In the Castaway cocktail we are using a spirit called Cachaça or as Paola also says it can be called Pinga. You know me and my pronunciation so I went with Pinga. They both feature some layers of tropical spices and sweetness that you just got to try. The other cocktail (Margarita) uses George Clooney's Casamigos Tequila which I highly recommend as your premium if not only tequila. we go indepth into his story on how this spirit started.  How did I get the recipes? Well listen as I'll give you a bartender's trick!!! On "Mark's adventures" segment: we are talking about Trader Sam's in both parks and a few things about the ones around the world. Did you know it was the first place that Audio-Animatronics was used in the Enchanted Tiki room which we also discuss. Walt was before his time for sure on this. We discuss how the show started and has it changed over the years....fire?? Well, yeah we talk about that too!!! The show has been around for decades and still going strong today!! On "Did you know?" segment: we talk about the tiki room was the first attraction at the park to have AC....why? Well, listen to find out. Also, the 4 talking Macaws have something in common. HINT: "Est-ce que tu parles français?". Also, who sponsored the attraction then and now?  Links to the show: Recipes for the show: https://tikicentralcanada.ca/recipes/ Mark's adventures page: https://tikicentralcanada.ca/marks-tiki-page/ Enchanted Tiki Room history video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8ct0iStBQl0 Walt's project of EPCOT was suppose to be a city video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9hqLo4J6mrQ

Hi guys, So this show is close to my heart in many ways! Yes, it's tiki and I'm the tiki guy but also we are going to talk about International Rum Day (August 16th) and Black Tot (July 30th 1970) which just pasted. We will also have drinks of course...what is a show without drinks...hmmm..Cosmos maybe (yeah I like the show too Ok). No, we will also be talking about Sea Shanties which for me brings me back to family home turf of Nova Scotia. Why and what is a Sea Shanty? Well, you have to listen now won't ya!!! So, drinks for this show is a classic Grog and Bahama Mama! But, Craig, we know these drinks and you have done them before....well with a new twist from our good folks at Pusser's British Navy rum and their website we given them a new look!!! So what is Black Tot day and what does it mean?? Well, you have to go back to 1655 (yeah that far back when the British Navy took over Jamaica and realized that they had this amazing supply of rum and so it became a staple and essential item on their ships which eventually carried over to pirates and privateers (what are they?...that's our "Talk like a Pirate" show with Rob Brunner our navy expert soon to come)!!! ON That note...way off topic. So Black Tot Day is when the British Navy said no more rum rations to the sailors on the ships daily and it became a rum that you and I could buy. Get this, you buy a bottle and some of the proceeds go to the British Navy retirement fund. Yeah, so drink up!!! We go more in-depth into this rum , the word "proof" and so much more. On "Did you know?" segment: we talk about sea shanties and how they started. Sailors started this along time ago (over 100 years ago). Today, we see it on Tik Tok as a popular part of our social media now (even the Trailer Boys have their version).  What is Tiki Tok?  Well, hmmm I don't know. Get it...anyways we talk about how a sea shanty went from ship to shore and now is famous folk songs in a place called??? Wait for it Legend...dairy...no, Nova Scotia and yes other parts of the world. Famous bands such as Irish Rovers and Rankin Family have song that started as sea shanties!!! Link to the recipe page: https://tikicentralcanada.ca/recipes/ You Tube video for Wellman sea shanty: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qP-7GNoDJ5c You Tube video for Drunken Sailor Shanty: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PV-052YJ-Zs Documentary Video on the history of sea shanties: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lqC2-wY_Axw You Tube video on drinks and sea shanties: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gLlIMN1RTJE Pusser's Rum Grog and Bahama Mama page: https://pussersrum.com/blogs/logbook/5-delicious-rum-cocktails-to-help-you-celebrate-black-tot-day?_pos=1&_sid=136980fee&_ss=r

Hey Folks, Sorry again for the delay...opening my bar after the lockdown as you can imagine has been more work than I thought. I do apologize for the delay. So this show is not our usual format as we are talking about build a tiki bar and how to decorate it. It's summertime and we all have been coupe up way too long. So, now we can have friends and family over for some BBQ and of course, cocktails!!! We will give you guidelines (yes that is what they are) on how to build and decorate your own oasis! Now wait Craig...we want drinks! OK OK..yes, we are Tiki Central and what is a show without drinks. But since you are building a bar and having family over (including the kids), we thought why not do a show about mocktails (cocktails with no alcohol). Paola of course was tickled pink that she can finally talk about drinks with no booze in them. We did throw in a banana to throw her off though. Don't tell her that!!! So Mocktails today is the BCC (banana, coconut, cream and cinnamon as well) and the Nojitio ( a Mojito with no alcohol). Mark and I go into some Canadian locations to find things to decorate and stock your bar: Bamboo Toronto, Tiki Escapes, Kitchenalia, Cocktail Emporium, and for people out in BC, Cheeky Tiki. These all have great websites to shop on and curbside plus delivery as well. We do get into what kind of themes are out there for your bar such as Disney, Exotica (don and trader Vic's like) or Miami beach theme (mine). Please do remember to make it your own and it's your own oasis at home. Music (jukebox), lighting, and decorations we go over as well. Enjoy your summer and cocktails please!!! Links to the show: Recipes: https://tikicentralcanada.ca/recipes/ Previous episode on Build a tiki bar (mark's page): https://tikicentralcanada.ca/marks-tiki-page/ (scroll down to mid page and that is also where we show you my glasswasher technique) Kitchenalia website: https://kitchenalia.ca/ Cocktail Emporium: https://www.cocktailemporium.com/ Bamboo Toronto: https://bambootoronto.ca/ Tiki Escapes: http://www.tikiescapes.com/index.html Oceanic Arts: https://www.oceanicarts.net/ Cheeky Tiki: https://www.cheekytikishop.com/

Hey folks, Sorry for the delay on the show as the show’s file got corrupted and the whole editing process had to be started all over again!!! Computers …right!!! This show is all about bitters! Now, you are asking yourself or me in this case…what is bitters and how does it affect a drink’s taste? Well, we will dive into the answer which really goes back to the old times of pre-historic medicine. Yeah, bitters were a medical ingredient that you would add to your food or drink and resolve medical issues such as upset stomach or arthritis. Why don’t we use it now for medical treatment…well it was mostly the reason you see in old western where the man in the wagon has this magical liqueur to fix it all and through time, we found other ways to resolve these issues. Also, most of the time it did not really work! So, we are doing two cocktails for you today using bitters: East India Cocktail and Triggerfish Cocktail (yes, that is the state fish of Hawaii). It goes by another name, but you know me I cannot pronounce it. If you really want the name, here it is: HUMUHUMUNUKUNUKUAPUA'A!!! On “Craig’s Creation” segment: we will do you guessed it, another bitter cocktail of my own called the Fred Collins Fizz. There were cocktails made back in the 30s called Fizz which would have soda or pop of some kind in it. You might have heard of a Gin Fizz (same concept). On “Mark’s Adventures” segment: We talk about a tiki bar (well tropical one) in Boston!! That is right…get your chowder here!! This newly recent bar Tiki Rock (2018) is in an historical building in downtown Boston and features some of the classic cocktails plus their own spin on drinks. Mark walks us through some of the cool features of this bar and of course the drinks as well. The even have one called ScrumdiddlyRumptious!!! How cool is that name? I know I need to work on my drink naming skills…Norma!!! On “The Brazilian” segment: Paola dives into the way they welcome and greet each other in public. No high fives here but some kisses on the check. It has at times when she first came to Canada got herself into some trouble. The other thing we talk about is that Brazilians are cool about you trying to speak Portuguese and no, that not Spanish!!! Show links:  Recipes: https://tikicentralcanada.ca/recipes/ Cool Links for the Bitters Book used on the show: https://tikicentralcanada.ca/cool-links/ Mark’s Adventures’ page: https://tikicentralcanada.ca/marks-tiki-page/ How to make the HUMUHUMUNUKUNUKUAPUA'A cocktail YouTube video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vlugfKyLKmc Cool video on the Trigger fish YouTube video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Aj4Qcw5XLbw How to make the Pineapple syrup at home YouTube video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KOFPh7KR1Rs&t=103s  

Hey guys, So here is part two of the tiki jukebox show for this year. We only did 10 songs like last year as there was so many we could have gone on for hours. Craig's playlist is the calypso music and let's get the party started near the pool!! (Paola calls it Cancun party music.... Mark's playlist is the traditional tiki exotica music we come to hear when you hit those tiki bars and escape from reality...ahh the bars!!! So if you are having people over (yes, we finally get to do that now) then check out our tiki jukebox page and we have all the links to our Spotify playlists for you (even Paola contributed this year). So my playlist has some of the following artist: Daddy Yankee, Ricky Martin, Camila Cabello and many others. Mark's playlist has some of the following artist: Gold Dust Lounge, The Flaps, The Hula Girls and many others. So here are the links to the playlist website: https://tikicentralcanada.ca/tiki-jukebox/ So get your cold tiki beverage ready and enjoy some amazing music!! To subscribe to our show or get our newsletter: https://tikicentralcanada.ca/subscribe/ And for our recipes: https://tikicentralcanada.ca/recipes/

Hey guys, Sorry for the delay as with COVID our post production team shut down and so this put a delay on this episode. We will be giving you guys our top 10 playlist for this year for your tiki parties or just to sit back in your backyard and enjoy a cocktail while listening to it. Paola, this year has contributed as well to our list and with baby in mind she brought some soothing melodies to it. I, on the other hand, brought the party, the fast paced and Caribbean sounds to the list. Mark went his usual tiki exotica ways and its a great list to listen to when you are home and just want to unwind. We have added Spotify playlist on our tiki page which is the following link: https://tikicentralcanada.ca/tiki-jukebox/ So sit back and get ready to listen to some great music and invite your friends over as well. What is a party with friends and great cocktails?

Hey guys, It's that time of year that we do our Cinco De Mayo show and some great tequila drinks. Today, we will be doing 2 tiki cocktails for you (well, one maybe considered not a tiki cocktail but it brings the sunshine into your glass). Tiki Rita Cocktail (I got from a Patron website) brings in tequila but some tiki ingredients we all know. The combination of lime juice, grapefruit juice, vanilla and all spice dram (pimento dram). The other cocktail is a traditional drink from the 80's, Tequila sunrise cocktail. We do explain a proper method to make this simple drink. On "Craig's Creation" segment: we are making a drink with tequila that apparently I can't pronounce but we have Paola for that. I make the drinks and Norma names them so it's not my fault. Blancafuoco cocktail is a combination of tequila, vanilla, maraschino liqueur, lime juice and club soda (not pop). It's a great combination of Italian and Mexican products that makes a nice summer refreshing cocktail. On "Did you Know?" segment today, we talk about the beginning of this celebration and why do we celebrate it for? Mexico and several wars lead to this battle that took only 5 hours to finish (yeah basically a long Star Wars movie...oh happy May 4th for you guys too). The European countries wanted pay back on the loans Mexico had but it was France who invaded Mexico and later on took over Mexico city. Was I suppose to put the spoiler in there? LOL Links to the show: Craig's Creation: https://tikicentralcanada.ca/craigs-creation/ Tiki Rita (Patron page) : https://www.patrontequila.com/global-en/cocktails/patron-reposado/tiki-rita.html Tequila sunrise recipe video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QmBkd_Zxv8k All Spice Dram recipe: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qc9Z75hMgPI&t=21s Vanilla bean syrup YouTube video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yNzJWNdWe2A Vanilla bean syrup Monin bottle: https://www.monin.com/ca/vanilla-syrup.html Cinco de mayo video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QIICWQyK72Y BONUS VIDEO: Petco Unleashed Chihuahua Race Finals: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=t0cU9eTO5Vg

Hey guys, We are still in lockdown so this show is recorded via internet but you know us...we never stop for anything! We want to bring the show to you when you are sitting at home wondering what to do this summer! This show is all about Hawaiian cocktails and the Luau. It's international Luau month this month!! We also very excited to introduce some cocktails from a new pioneer in the tiki world. Lynn Calvo has been working hard in New York district to open her bar called Lynn's Hula Hut. She has written a book called "Tiki with a Twist" which is not in my library but it soon will be (back ordered...boo). She has travelled the world and brought her own version of oasis to her state. She has written a book, opened a bar and even started branding her own infused spirits...more on her later!! The two cocktails we are doing today are complete different ends of tiki. The first one is the "Lono Tiki Cocktail" which has a great combination of rums, mango, coconut and even banana (not Paola's favorite LOL). The next one is the "Brazilian Breeze Tiki Cocktail". This one is shaken cocktail and also some muddling of cucumbers as well. Her recipe has a fermented infusion of Tequila and pineapple. We will add links at the bottom for you on how to do this. We do talk about the "pros" and "cons" of both syrups verses fermented infusions. You decide which way to go. The new segment "The Brazilian" features our co-host Paola and her expertise on Brazilian culture and ways of the world. We get into driving techniques...can be dangerous! Also, what is the Brazilian wax verses a bikini wax...listen to find out!!!! On "Did you know?" segment, we talk about the Luau and some cool history facts about it. Women and Men ate separately and dancing at one point was banned! What? no!! Ok, here are tons of links to everything in this episode: Recipe page for cocktails: https://tikicentralcanada.ca/recipes/ Floating technique: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ufj528irxvc (this is also a cool New York sour in this video, what a bonus cocktail) Muddling technique: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FPCu1Tg21kc&t=44s Fermented infusion technique: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=84JGlnuOc7Q Pineapple simple syrup: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KOFPh7KR1Rs Lynn Calvo's links: Lynn Calvo article: https://northforker.com/2020/07/sail-away-to-the-tropics-with-spirits-from-montauk-tiki-bar-lynns-hula-hut/ Lynn Calvo’s Forbes article: https://www.forbes.com/sites/ranagood/2020/02/26/lynns-hula-hut-tiki-vibes-montauk/?sh=40737b0c2c19 Lynn’s Hula Hut: https://www.lynnshulahut.net/ Hula Hut Spirits: https://www.hulahutspirits.com/liquor Lynn’s YouTube video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KRgX9ohFgSQ Lynn’s book Tiki with a Twist: https://www.amazon.ca/Tiki-Twist-Fresh-Tropical-Cocktails/dp/1454918268/ref=sr_1_1?dchild=1&keywords=lynn+calvo&qid=1619202223&sr=8-1 BONUS VIDEO: Gabriel Iglesias Luau YouTube video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MjXChWKKQUw Luau history YouTube video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=C79A8bsaWCs Pineapple corer: https://www.amazon.ca/dp/B08YJDP3YB/ref=cm_sw_em_r_mt_dp_233NDH0HD9SENCNGZ1TR?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1

Hey guys, Well we are doing a show on Prohibition as we usually do every year. This show is usually in January but with Covid and us coming out of lockdown, we thought it's like Prohibition for us. Even breaking the law (Judas Priest for you metal fans out there)! This episode we talk about the Sidecar cocktail was created actually in France by Harry McElhone at the Ritz Hotel back in 1922. The sidecar was the way the American Captain's would get to the bar for the early drinks. Harry McElhone was a Scottish born who then immigrated to USA and then when Prohibition started he headed to France. With this move to Europe, it gave him the opportunity to work with new spirits and ingredients that he would have not be available to him in USA. This cocktail contains Cognac (French brandy …distilled wine) and Cointreau (French orange liqueur). To get this recipe go to: https://tikicentralcanada.ca/recipes/ On "Mark's Adventures" segment: we talk about the Kowloon which is close to Boston. Yeah Boston!!! It is a Chinese restaurant that was converted into what they classify as a tiki bar with a 1200 seat capacity (That's right). It also has 300 menu items including the famous PuPu platter (not poo poo...and yes don't google that as Paola did). On "Did you know?" segment: We go more in-depth on Prohibition details. How did it start? Who organized these groups to get the ball rolling: wives, factory owners, politicians, and even the KKK. World War I was even part of the reason for Prohibition due to the anti-German movement. Mark's Adventure page: https://tikicentralcanada.ca/marks-tiki-page/ Subscribe to our newsletter or show: https://tikicentralcanada.ca/subscribe/

Hey guys, Hi Guys, As you can see from our media posts we are back in our new studio and happy to be recording finally together. Paola was definitely happy as she finally was able to enjoy one of my drinks since the baby has been born. She gives her review of the Craig's Creation Jamaican Breeze we did last show. This show we discuss the Saturn cocktail (originally named the X-15 which was the experimental rocket program that helped develop the Apollo and NASA program). It was created by a gentleman named J. Popo Galsini (in 1967) who was good friends of the engineers that visited the bar. He placed his creation into the International Bartender's Association World Championships and won. WOW first time!!! This tiki drink is unique in one big way...no RUM!!! I know …what Craig are you doing to us...trust me when I say it's worth it!! To get the recipe to this and all of our other cocktails go to : https://tikicentralcanada.ca/recipes/ On Craig's Creation we try out a Chambord liqueur which is great for tropical drinks. I know...you are asking: what is this liqueur? Listen to find out more and some great recipes: To get to this page go to: https://tikicentralcanada.ca/craigs-creation/ On "Did you know?" segment: we talk about some cool facts about Saturn: the planet. Did you know the summer season there is 8 years long but the day on Saturn is 10,5 hours long? Here are some cool links to the show: Link to make the YouTube video on how to make a Saturn cocktail: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rbmnM7kb7QY Link to YouTube video on how to make ginger syrup: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Gy7Co1paZSk&t=33s and never before YouTube video for making Falernum: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=j4upubVlZYk&t=147s OR you can go to our recipe page as well for this under episode #17.

Hi folks, I hope everyone had great holidays this year and some time off of course. Isn't the best thing of the year to end it with family and friends and time to reflect on the year we have had.... This episode we will give you two Christmassy recipes for you o try out during this time. I said Christmassy as I don't normal make cocktails that are holiday related. I know you are saying "Craig you are such a Scrooge" but for me I like making cocktails that are not so targeted to a specific holiday but something you can enjoy anytime of the year. So we have the Island Holiday cocktail which is a layered drink and does contain a special liqueur called Midori (or Crème de Menthe dark). Now, we do give you some tips to layering a drink but don't worry if you can't do it as my grandpa would say:" It's all going down the same hole" and so don't sweat it but give a try. Our second cocktail is "Rudolph's Night Off" which I found on Pinterest which I am sorry I don't understand how to use and I guess I'm old school on these things. We also talk about what are our Christmas plans for the season, what was our most memorable gift we ever got (and yes mine was drums LOL).  We also talk about New Year's resolutions which I know we never stick to but fun to talk about. On "Did you Know?" segment: we find out Santa has his own postal code in Canada. How many gifts are given out on the 12 days of Christmas and how NORAD started tracking Santa's journey on that special day. Here are the links to the show: Recipe for this show (remember now we have 2 pages of recipes): https://tikicentralcanada.ca/recipes-page-2/ Island Holiday Cocktail: https://www.moderntiki.com/island-holiday-tiki-cocktail/ Modern tiki home page: https://www.moderntiki.com/ Here is a Christmas Cocktail we didn’t mention on the show but give it a try: https://www.pinchpurrfect.com/2020/12/24/christmas-in-the-caribbean/ Rudolph’s Night off cocktail: https://www.elletalk.com/rudolphs-night-off/ Cranberry simple syrup video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1Htxz1M0MIw  

Hey guys, Sorry for the delay of the show as we tried a new platform to record and end up with missing files and so we had to re-record this show. Opps!!! So on this show we will be covering a Banana Daquiri. No, it's not just a Daquiri with a banana. Come on this is tiki….we are making a tiki cocktail created by our good friend of Harry Yee (yes, he is still alive, not one of the dead guys as Paola claims). So as other tiki drinks in the past, we discover that many people or places that have claimed to have created this drink. We are sticking with Harry Yee for now!! This drink will use rum but also a great liqueur I like to use called Galliano Vanilla Liqueur. Oh did I mention on this show there will be a new segment with a surprise for all of you. "Craig's Creation is born and I am giving up for the first time my secret tiki recipes that never have be seen by human eyes...well mine and Norma's!!! I am giving you two recipes a segment so you can add to that recipe book of yours and entertain your guests with some refreshing tiki drinks. To get our usual recipe page go to: https://tikicentralcanada.ca/recipes/ and Craig's Creation: https://tikicentralcanada.ca/craigs-creation/ On " Mark's Adventures", we talk about the tiki bar called "The Alibi" which is located in Portland Oregon. Yes, there!!! It is one of the oldest tiki bars as its been around since 1947. If you don't mind a little Karokee and some amazing tiki drinks, you fit right in!! To check out Mark's page : https://tikicentralcanada.ca/marks-tiki-page/ On" Did you know?" segment: we talk about the banana (Yes, Paola is making a pucker face right now)!! Some cools facts like the banana is a berry! Or that it grows on a plant and not a tree!! Listen to hear more cool facts! Links for the show: YouTube video to make the banana daquiri: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0EYCGiNxEbE YouTube video on how to make ginger syrup: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Gy7Co1paZSk YouTube video on some cool banana facts: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LzWIQnDCxEo Subscribe to our show through any platform you like: https://tikicentralcanada.ca/subscribe/

Hey guys, We are back with a new episode from you guys via internet due to lockdown. We will be discussing the Hawaiian Eye Cocktail on this show. This is adrink not created by Don the Beachcomber or Trader Vic but instead by Harry Yee. He is still alive (yes, he is) at the age of 101 years old this year...WOW!!! This man is famous for creating in Hawaii some famous tiki cokctails such as Blue Hawaii cocktail which is one of Poala's favorite drink. This drink was created for the TV show "Hawaiian Eye" back in the late 50s at the Hawaiian Village Hotel. This hotel was home to the tv crew and other tv shows such as Hawaii-50 and Elvis Presley's "Blue Hawaii". This cocktail has three different rums in it: white rum, Jamacian dark rum, and Bermuda rum. This drink also has grapefruit juice and a erotic guava juice. This juice more than likely will be commercial when you go look for it. What is guava fruit? Listen to find out!!! To get the recipe for this drink and all of our drinks click the following link: https://tikicentralcanada.ca/recipes/ We got the recipe from Jeff "Beachbum" Berry's Sippin Safari book. Harry Yee was a bartender who was the first to use an orchid or an umbrella...find out why he used an orchid for garnish. It's not what you think!! We also give a good tip on ice!!!! On "Did You Know?" segment: we discuss more in-depth the "Hilton Hawaiian Village Waikiki Beach Resort". I would like yo see that on a business card. Several towers of the resort was built in stages and we talk about that!! On "Mailbag" segment: what is our favorite garnish for us? Links for the show: Hawaiian Eye YouTube cocktail page: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GgNdhlCAvww This is an alternative recipe for the drink: https://www.diffordsguide.com/cocktails/recipe/943/hawaiian-eye

Hey guys, Welcome and we are so glad to give you another tiki adventure for this winter season. This episode is recorded via internet since we have gone into another lockdown but still want to entertain you with cool facts, stories and of course cocktails. On this episode we talk about the Myrtle Bank Cocktail which is a created at Myrtle Bank Hotel in Jamaica. This location is near the old Port Royal area of the island which is where Captain Morgan was staying. He was made governor of the island and later died as well at age of 53 years old. Only after a few months of his death, there was a huge earth quake and Port Royal broke off and went into the sea never to seen again. Jamaica is looking into building underwater tunnels to have tourist check out the lost city and Captain Morgan's final resting place. This recipe was inspired by Don and Trader Vic's visit to the hotel and both went back to their bars and reversed engineered their own cocktail which ended up on the menus in the 40s. We do have both Trader's and Don's recipes for you and they can be found on our Recipe page link: https://tikicentralcanada.ca/recipes/ The hotel itself went through several natural disasters in its history such as 2 earthquakes and 2 fires (one being the most spectacular blaze in Jamaican history). We cover why using crushed ice on a cocktail is more efficient on a booze forward then a regular cocktail. On "Did you Know?" segment: we cover a Myrtle Bank rum which has been around for long time and is unique in many ways. It is created with only 600 bottles per batch per year to be distributed. It also is 120 proof in the bottle compared to regular rum at 80 proof. It also gets aged in UK and not on the island. Here are some cool links to check out: Information on the Myrtle Bank Rum: https://www.bittersandbottles.com/products/myrtle-bank-10-year-120-proof-jamaica-rum Cocktail YouTube video on how to make the Myrtle Bank Cocktail: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZO-b63K4NrY Cool links for Jeff "Beachbum" Berry's book Sippin' Safari: https://tikicentralcanada.ca/cool-links/

Hey guys, Welcome to our 4th season and we are very excited to be back. This episode is recorded via internet since we have gone into another lockdown but still want to entertain you with cool facts, stories and of course cocktails. On this episode we talk about the Last Rites cocktail which was created by Mariano Licudine at the Mai Kai. Now, we have to go back to Don's the Beachcomber's location where Mariano worked for him for over 15 years. These recipes are secretive and so we are not sure if he started making this back in Don's days or the Mai Kai's. To check out the recipe on our "Recipe" page : https://tikicentralcanada.ca/recipes/ We go into detail about his life and how he started such as being a private chauffeur and bartender for Laurel and Hardy. This recipe is very basic in some ways compared to most tiki cocktails that we have discussed on this show but don't be fooled by that as its an amazing drink with lots of Martinique rum, passion fruit syrup, lime juice and Falernum. On "Mark's adventures" segment, we get more in-depth to the Mai Kai and its history. It is one of the oldest tiki bars on the planet and largest ones as well. It houses a 30,000 sq. foot garden and also a waterfall. It entertains its guests daily with a  authentic Mai-Kai Islanders show which shows off dancing, music and even a fire show. On "Did You Know?" segment, we cover more information about Mariano such as he was one of 14 kids in his family and served the Mai Kai for 30 years. Here are some cool links to check out: The Last Rites cocktail YouTube video: Last Rites Cocktail YouTube video Mai Kai fire show YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bC7R9uwFGdY Mai Kai Islanders show in full video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_-U8UUXC-ts Cool links for Jeff "Beachbum" Berry's book Sippin' Safari: https://tikicentralcanada.ca/cool-links/ Mark's Adventures link: https://tikicentralcanada.ca/marks-tiki-page/

Hey guys, We normally publish on Monday's but we thought we can't have you go through Christmas and the holidays without us...so here we are!!! We will be covering a classic cocktail that has a new age spin on it. Mele Kalikimaka Mai Tai cocktail!! We took Don's...no wait Trader Vic's...well one of their recipes and added a new twist. Should I say Candy cane twist!! Tis the season!! We'll give you a great complex tiki cocktails with three different types of rum. Now, this is the time to break open that liquor cabinet as you can use any of your favorites for this one. We will shake and build this drink and it makes 2 drinks with this recipe (or in Mark's case, just one)!! Yes, tis the season for giving and sharing!! And we didn't stop there, we added everything but the kitchen sink for garnish but most important of them all is the candy cane!! By the way, do you know what " Mele Kalikimaka!" means? Ask someone from Hawaii, they will tell you. How did Hawaii celebrate Christmas and was there something before it?? You must know the song as well? We discuss just how the song started and no it wasn't Bing Crosby but a good friend of his...listen to find out! In "Mailbag" segment: we are asked what to do for toasting this season? Listen to find out some crazy rules that apply...I hope so as your sex life might depend on it!!! Here are some cool links to the show: Recipe for Mele Kalikimaka Mai Tai: https://www.hawaiimagazine.com/content/how-make-mele-kalikimaka-mai-tai-and-more Bob and Doug McKenzie 12 days of Christmas: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=l2oPio60mK4 Craig's favorite Xmas song: Snoopy's Christmas song: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sh-J4GSPgAM&t=62s Floating technique for the drink: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=stw4rnbDi38 Cocktail Emporium website: https://www.cocktailemporium.com/ OHHHH....listen to the end for our Christmas greetings to all our fans!!!! Happy Holidays everyone!!! Stay Safe!! NOTE: We will be taking a few weeks off for the holidays...see you in the new year!!!

Hi Guys, NOTE: This is not our regular show format as we don't feature a drink or its history at all. We been asked by many listeners, what rums I should have on my bar to make these tiki drinks? Do I need all these rums to make drinks? This is a tasting show that Cam, Mark and I did where we describe some basic rums from different parts of the world to give you an idea of what you need for our drinks. We will cover the following rums: Saint James: RHUM AGRICOLE (Martinique rum), Bumbu Craft Rum (Barbados), Plantation Grande Reserve (Barbados rum), Diplomatico rum (Venezuelan rum), The Real McCoy 12-year-old rum (Barbados), Captain Morgan Private Stock (Puerto Rico), Havana Club 7-year-old rum (Cuba), Kraken black spiced rum (blend), Mount Gay (Barbados), and Cruzan Citrus Rum (St. Croix USA Virgin Islands). We will go over the locations of these rums; the distillation of the rums (pot/column) with video attached on what these means (on the website page); history of the rums; tastes; and smells plus drinks that you can use for them for. The page for the show is: https://tikicentralcanada.ca/rum-tasting/ ...and yeah, check out last year's show on that same page with 10 more rums to add to your collection!!! Enjoy as we sure did...LOL! We also will suggest some rums to use as starting out compared to more complex ones. Distillation YouTube video page: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rRx1bfpdz6E&t=404s To subscribe to our show or newsletter, click on the following link: https://tikicentralcanada.ca/subscribe/ For recipes to try these rums out on, check out our recipe page: https://tikicentralcanada.ca/recipes/ Stay tuned for our Christmas special episode that includes a new version of the classic Mai Tai cocktail and some history to a classic Christmas song. Bonus Christmas skit we always love doing every year!!!

Hey guys, As you have noticed we have changed our schedule for the show. It will be posted on Monday's for now due COVID changing my work schedule. WE always make sure to get the show out to you as fast as possible. This show, we will be talking about the Don the Beachcomber's Pearl Diver cocktail. This cocktail was created by him when he opened his first location in California in 1930s. By the way, the address to that location is 1722 N. McCadden Place. It is now a dog park according to street view of Google. This location open December 5th, 1933 (anniversary coming up). WE are going to give you two recipes today from Don and.....Don!!! Yes, that is not a typo!! He created the Pearl Diver Punch in 1937 for his Don the Beachcomber's location. He created the Pearl Diver Cocktail in 1948 in Hawaii at the Polynesian Village bar or today known as Waikiki Village. Why two different brands? Listen to find out why!! This great cocktail has a Don's secret ingredient called Gardenia Mix. Thanks to Jeff "Beachbum" Berry we have the recipe now. Through his research, he found this unique ingredients recipe and I have to say its my first time using "butter" in a drink. Yes, Butter!! It has all kinds of elements such as honey, vanilla, cinnamon and pimento Dram. To get the recipe to the drink and this Gardenia Mix go to our recipe page: https://tikicentralcanada.ca/recipes/ YouTube video for the recipe: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=e5P8KetaRVY On "Did you Know?" segment: we will discuss more detail about Steve Crane (owner of the Luau tiki chain) and some details you may not have known before. Trust me is a juicy soap opera story you got hear!!! To subscribe to our show or our newsletter go to our link: https://tikicentralcanada.ca/subscribe/ Also, we want to pay tribute to the late Sean Connery through this YouTube video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GPBuJtJGRo8 Also a comical look at Mike Myer's tribute to Sean: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KQYp8xJ4kpo

Hi Guys, So this is not our usual format of a show but a cool look at the year and somethings that didn't make the show. We thought we would travel back throughout the year at some key times while recording that was not in the original shows. It's hard at times to edit the show and wonder what to keep and what you can't use. There are some of the cuts are due to time restraints of the show (so it won't be too long as we like to keep it under an hour). There was others that on their own are great but just didn't combine well with that show's content. So enjoy and here are some hints of topics you will hear: 1) DUI driving and old man in a Volvo 2) Crushed ice story 3) Mark and Flea markets 4) Good food at a tiki bar? 5) Does Paola read the scripts? 6) Pass the Drink on the left hand side.... 7) Mark made the intro (and Norma made the graphic)! 8) Different bartenders made the drinks their own way 9) Paola will take the kid cup version of that tiki drink please! 10) Sex in the City fact that is little more than the script 11) What did Craig do at the beginning of COVID with his time? 12) Talk Like a Pirate Rob gets the whip!! 13) Is there a difference in alcohol percentage (CDN vs USA)? 14) Paola emits fear into the crew 15) KD (Canadian dish of choice) 16) Paola may or may not be a B****? 17) Brazilian sex in the bar 18) Mark and cemeteries 19) B-day FB notifications Well that is the show and don't forget to subscribe to our show or newsletter at: https://tikicentralcanada.ca/subscribe/ OR follow us on FaceBook, Twitter, Instagram, iTunes, GooglePlay, Spotify, Podomatic, and YouTube!!! Stay tuned to the next show, we will talk about Pearl Diver (tiki classic of Don the Beachcombers).

Hey folks, It's that time of year when all the goblins and ghosts come out to play. I hope you are all staying safe and enjoy this fall season. On today's show, we will be talking about the La Paloma Cocktail. This cocktail is normally made with Tequila (oh, Mark mentions don't eat the worm...yuck)!!! You can also make it with Mezcal which is not tequila technically. We will get into the details about that on the show. Also, we suggest trying Casamigos tequila that is George Clooney's brand. It's very smooth!!! This is not a tiki drink per say and we go into what exactly makes a tiki drink??? Just like a tiki cocktail, it has a lot of people claiming they created this refreshing cocktail. We break down two of them thanks to the assistance of Paola. You know me and Spanish…yeah exactly!!! Oh by the way, did you know how to make the proper Cuba Libre cocktail...listen to make sure!!! We also go through some cool facts about the celebration of the "Day of the Dead". Did you know people will sleep at their loved ones' graves to pay their respects to them? By the way, please check out last year's show on Day of the Dead as we went through other facts about this event. On "Did you Know?" segment: we go through the other holiday celebrated around this time which is Halloween or All Hallow's Eve. I know this year with COVID it will put a dampener on this fun evening but have some fun with it and make yourself a few cocktails. For the recipes to this show: https://tikicentralcanada.ca/recipes/ YouTube video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=alK5hu1moVk Last year's DOD show can be found in our episode page: https://tikicentralcanada.ca/episodes/

Hey Guys, Sorry for the delay on the show! With the COVID situation in the bar industry, it prevented me from getting out in time!! So this show is focused on the apple cider cocktails for the season. We are getting into colder weather and what better way to warm up on those cold nights then a hot rum beverage. We will be covering two cocktails for you as we have two different Thanksgiving Days on our calendar (Canada-October 12th and USA-November 26th). The first cocktail that we will discuss is the apple cider old-fashioned. The second, cocktail will be the apple cider mule. For both of these cocktails, you will need apple cider which I recommend getting from our local farmer's market. You will find the end product a better drink and less full of preservatives and other items they throw into commercial juices. You will also find on these drinks that the garnish plays a key role on the outcome of the drink with a cinnamon stick and slice of apple. To get the recipes for them both: https://tikicentralcanada.ca/recipes/ We also discuss the difference between regular apple cider and hard cider. How did it start and how to make it?? Did you know there are two different types of pumpkins...Mark clues us in on which one you will need for that tasty pumpkin pie for dinner!!! By the way, every wonder where the phrase: "An apple a day keeps the doctor away" came from? Listen to find out!!! On "Mark's adventures" segment: We talk about a cool tiki bar in Palm Springs called Tonga Hut. This cool bar has two locations and even dessert and winter hours (yes, I didn't believe it either)!! We get to find out more about a cool tiki artist named Shag! We also discuss the famous secret room of tiki. On "Did you know?" segment: We will discuss cool facts about Thanksgiving like when do you celebrate it on and how did that date come to be? Was all those amazing desserts made by the Pilgrims back then to bring to the feast? Listen to find out!!! Oh, did I mention we also talk about Martha Stewart Cider Bourbon Cocktail? Here is the link to this recipe and video: https://www.marthastewart.com/863805/cider-bourbon-cocktail Here is the page and video to the Apple Cider Old-Fashioned cocktail (they use whiskey but we use rum): https://www.delish.com/cooking/recipe-ideas/recipes/a56767/apple-cider-old-fashioned-recipe/ Mark Adventure page link: https://tikicentralcanada.ca/marks-tiki-page/ Subscribe to our show or our newsletter: https://tikicentralcanada.ca/subscribe/

HI guys, So, I know we are cutting it close for the year end to jam a few more shows in for you. This special episode (this is part one of 2) is about Mark's adventures to Hawaii. He finally went back to the oasis he knew so many years ago and re-visited a few places and checked out some new ones as well. He tried out 30 Mai Tai just for research. I know the things he will do for our listeners, what a trooper!! This episode we will talk about two cocktails he experienced there on his journeys: Sand and Sea Cocktail from Rumfire bar and High Maka Mai Tai which I saw in some of the pictures of menus he sent back to me as I enjoyed our cold (burr) weather here.  We figured we give you two drinks and one of course has to be a version of Mai Tai which seems to be the Hawaiian trade mark of drinks. We will go further into that in part 2. On Mark's adventures segment, we will be discussing the bar called "La Mariana Sailing Club" which started back in the 50's! Yes, that long it has been around and thank god we see tiki can survive things like hurricanes, earthquakes, financial troubled times,  and still stand tall.  Paola and Mark compare notes to just how the tiki/Polynesian times have changed over the years to more commercial and high end tourism.  Links for the show: Recipes for the show: https://tikicentralcanada.ca/recipes-page-2/ Mark's adventures page: https://tikicentralcanada.ca/marks-tiki-page/ Facebook page for "La Mariana Sailing Club": https://www.facebook.com/lamarianasailingclub/ Menu page for La Mariana Sailing Club: http://www.lamarianasailingclub.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/LMSC-Dinner-Menu.pdf

Hi everyone, I hope everyone is staying safe and doing okay with the second wave of COVID on its way. What better time to do a tiki show then now when we all need that getaway from it all? This show's cocktail is the mint julep cocktail. This cocktail goes all the way back to the 1800's. The julep term means "medicine" and this drink was made to prevent illness and bring health back to par. The American mint julep used to contain camphor which was a medicinal ingredient that today is used for Vick's Vapor rub and even turpentine. Yeah I know...crazy!!! The origin of the drink or who created it is vague but became the traditional drink of the Kentucky Derby in 1938. So, it's been around!! This unique drink is very simple in the recipe as it only contains: bourbon, simple syrup, mint and crushed ice. There are some specific traditions to this drink and how to drink it though. First, it is made with no fingerprints on the silver cup it is made in (fingerprints won't freeze and therefore will show up on the cup for the customer). Second, it is served with a napkin at the race to avoid you touching the cup but isn't that fancy. We discuss the differences of whiskeys: bourbon, rye, Irish, Tennessee, and Scotch. These are put into specific types of barrels...listen to find out more!!! The heavens gets its share of the barrel as well in what is called "angel's share"....again listen to find out what that means!! On "Did you Know?" segment: we discuss some cool facts about the Derby such as there are over 120,000 mint juleps made and drank on the race day. Also, its the longest sport event in USA history which is the called the “the most exciting two minutes in sports” uninterrupted. There is also a $1000 mint julep cocktail sold on this day (wait a minute, did I say $1000...yes I did). This special cocktail is to raise money for the "Old Friends" Charity which helps old horses that can no longer race or breed. Why is it that much? Listen to find out!!! On "Mailbag" segment: we are asked where do you get those specialty mugs/glassware for the cocktails. Mark and I give you the breakdown to where to find them and get great deals on them as well. Here is where you can get the recipes to the show: https://tikicentralcanada.ca/recipes/ Here is the video on how to make a Mint Julep cocktail: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=U_J0MgIWIjM Here is a video to break down the differences of whiskeys: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=USUqZGOAgmk To subscribe to our newsletter: https://tikicentralcanada.ca/subscribe/