Cocktail bar identity Max Traverse is taking Polynesian culture to new heights – literally.
Recognising the potential of upscale Tiki in Hong Kong, Traverse has launched Mahalo Tiki Lounge on the top floor of the QRE Plaza building in South Wan Chai.
Mahalo is a luxury bar and lounge where “a sophisticated interpretation of the Tiki concept comes to life with retro, 1970’s/1980’s vibes”. The bar, lounge and open-air terrace offer sweeping views of the city.
“Mahalo is a Hawaiian expression of gratitude and respect, which is what I want our guests to feel when they walk through the door,” says Traverse, the man behind Central’s renowned Honi Honi Cocktail Bar & Lounge.
“With Mahalo, we are combining luxury with Tiki, taking the concept to the next level in a way that Hong Kong can really get behind. As soon as our guests step out of the elevator, they will be transported back to that romantic, 1970’s/1980’s time period when the Polynesian theme took off around the world, while enjoying the attentive service and quality expected from the best five star experiences. We’re bringing kitsch up market.”
Traverse appointed Richard Moreau and Yacine Bensalem of interior architecture company In Situ & Partners to create a setting that subtly encompasses the classical elements of Tiki culture: earth, water, wind and fire. The interiors feature vegetal, oceanic and floral components, with tropical plants situated throughout and intricately designed botanical wallpaper adorning the walls in the entrance and lounge.
Bamboo is visible all around, and two large, 70’s style Jensen light fixtures in the shape of palm trees stand as “islands” inside the room. Behind the bar, large circles and bubbles are a nod not only to the beverage industry, but to the avant-garde house of Pierre Cardin on the Cote d’Azur, a 70’s design by Hungarian architect Antti Lovag.
Of the opening, Traverse says: “From the design concept, to our cocktail list to the location in South Wan Chai, Mahalo is the perfect place to enjoy summer 2015 in Hong Kong.”