Royal Hawaiian in Laguna Beach

Royal Hawaiian in 2024

​This is how the old Royal Hawaiian looked when Don and I visited last fall!

My quick photo-snap failed to properly spotlight the carved tiki figures. It also didn't capture the giddiness Don and I were both feeling. One click and we rushed inside to see the iconic lounge, where we made good memories 4 decades ago.

2014

This is how Royal Hawaiian looked in 2014, when Don and I were back in Laguna Beach. The business had closed down and we couldn't pop in for Happy Hour, like we did as newlyweds in the '80s, living just blocks away.

The Cabang family still owned the biz. back in the '80s. Francis Cabang and his buddy Hal Hanna, originally opened the Polynesian style lounge in 1947. The Cabangs sold in 2006. Royal Hawaiian went through a few owners in the years that followed.

All Fixed Up

Our recent visit came a year after new ownership spiffed the place up. Thatched umbrellas and heaters welcomed October guests. 

But who would want to sit facing the Coast Highway, when you could enjoy the Tiki decor just inside the door?

​The open door with the hefty porthole window, invited us in on that late autumn afternoon.

Where was the old door decor? The photo I took in 2014, showed a tiki figure.  

I spotted this framed photo inside a little later. I guess that might be Francis Cabang standing beside the same door. Look at the palm tree? Only potted plants in front, today.

Just inside 

​It was about 4:30 when we entered the dimly lit waiting area.

The rock wall, rattan furniture and plants, helped me recall a few Tiki adventures from 4 decades ago.

Conch Shell Seat

You'd think I'd remember this crazy thing from back then.

Maybe it's a new addition. 

We were way ahead of the TGIF crowds, so I paused for a fine photo. I pictured Tiki Fans, a few hours later, waiting in line to get their Instagram photos.

​Dining Area

It was nice to be early before diners filled the tables. I could snap a few pics of the fresh new interior, without worry.

The built in dividers above the green seating, were impressive. They were created using jade tiles, salvaged from an ancient Chinese Temple! Should have snapped a close up photo. 

The cozy booths offered comfy seating for folks hoping to enjoy Mochiko Chicken Wings, or Chicken Dumplings or a Pu Pu Platter.

In fact I believe we sat in a similar booth and ordered a Pu Pu Platter in 1995. We were vacationing with young kids and they thought this place was mighty exciting.

Colorful Lighting

There was a lot to see, looking up towards the ceiling. Lots of bamboo... a ship's wheel and glowing green lamp.

Another light fixture shined red and green colors onto the palm thatched ceiling.

Long Bar

Don and I had a hard time remembering the old bar set-up. Was this the old location? The recent renovation left the bar looking a lot sleeker. No cluttering plants or TVs. 

There were 22 stools at the glowing bar. Only about 6 seats were taken at 4:30.

Back Lit Bar

We took 2 seats by another couple, visiting for the first time from D.C. It was fun to chat with others who were enthused, like us.

We studied the 20 lit shelves, holding mugs and glassware, bottles liquor. Of course rum!

Above the shelves I spotted a draped skeleton. I was glad they hadn't gotten overly excited about Halloween decor. I'd rather gaze up and see a carved boat or clam shells than ghoulish delights.

And I'm always game for mid-century hula girl lamps. There were 2 and one had swinging hips! 

Retro Menu

The menu design pleased me. I was wearing my 50s era flamingo dress and wanted to absorb as much Retro Tiki as possible.

I'm not sure how much a tropical drink would cost us in 1947, but there were 8 options on the menu, for $18. each. 

I was disappointed for a moment that none of the drinks were served in Tiki glasses. But I guess glass allows you to actually see what you're drinking.

Mai Tai and Lapu Lapu

Our gold and brown drinks were served on the earthy sleek bar. My Mai Tai was half price at happy hour.

We had a full evening ahead and I didn't want to risk ruining it all by drinking the extremely potent Lapu Lapu. That's Royal Hawaiian's  signature cocktail from 1947.

Don's Lapu Lapu

The 2-rum drink, with passion fruit and o.j. has changed a bit. There used to be a strict 2-drink limit. Don ordered just one, with the original recipe, which is not on the menu.

Maybe it was the original recipe, but it appeared to be smaller. Maybe that's a memory thing.

Don wore his bird of paradise shirt, to enjoy his cocktail.

We took a selfie. Which is something we obviously didn't do 40+ years ago. 

Old Photos

​Don had a good chat with the manager, when he inquired about t-shirts. 

While he shopped, I studied old photos.

Mr. and Mrs. Cabang

This must be Mr. and Mrs. Cabang, standing near a billboard advertising Royal Hawaiian Charcoal Broiler.

I wish I could have learned more history about Francis and his buddy Hal. Both were born in the Philippines and both were WWII vets. They would be pleased to know their dream business is still delighting folks, 78 years after opening!

Off By 5:15

The Happy Hour vibe was picking up by the time we headed out, just after 5. Musicians were arriving and yummy smells were wafting from the kitchen.

But 2 nights in Laguna isn't enough. We had a lot more to do.

I'm so glad this historic Laguna Beach landmark is back in the Tiki Biz!
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