We’re Recapping Chilled 100 ELEVATE 2023! Tropical vs Tiki

Topical versus Tiki was a fun and informative seminar led by Daniele Dalla Pola.

A definite passion for rum, life, and all things tropical was evident as Daniele taught us the differences between these two types of cocktails, while also mixing us up a few delicious drinks to sample throughout our class.

A decades-long career has certainly made Daniele an expert on authentic Tiki culture. A master Tiki Mixologist with a passion for all things rum, Daniele is the owner of Esotico Bar in Miami, as well as Kaona Room—a “Speaky-Tiki”—which is a fun modern twist on the traditional speakeasy.

During our seminar, we covered a variety of topics, including the difference between a tropical drink and a tiki drink. Though both tropical drinks have a lot in common, I think we could agree that while all tiki drinks are tropical, not all tropical drinks are tiki. Typically, tropical drinks are made from fresh, fruity ingredients. They are light and refreshing to drink, and many of them tend to be rum based. For instance, a simple blend of pineapple juice, coconut cream, and rum gives you a Piña Colada.

A tiki drink adds a complexity of layers into the mix. A magic formula of sweet, sour, spice, and creativity. An example of a popular tiki drink would be the Mai Tai. A delicious blend of light and dark rum, fresh lime juice, orange liqueur, and Orgeat syrup. Other well-known tiki drinks include the Navy Grog, the Zombie, and the Rum Runner.

The Daiquiri is widely considered the father of all tropical and tiki drinks. Since the original daiquiri was created in 1898, the variations have been endless, including the famous Hemingway Daiquiri, named for Ernest Hemingway who fell in love with them during his travels.

Seeing a growing trend in this category, tropical and tiki drinks are indeed having a moment to shine in the current drink scene. It was impossible to leave this seminar and not want to find the nearest bar and have a tropical versus tiki taste test!

Thank you to Daniele for coming and hosting such a fun and educational afternoon for all of us at Chilled 100 ELEVATE 2023. Cheers!