In a nod to Detroit’s tiki bar history, Evening Bar at the Shinola Hotel has rebranded as "Model T-iki," a tiki-inspired pop-up running until mid-April. The space, decorated with bamboo and palm accents, offers a tropical escape from the winter chill. Guests can enjoy cocktails and bites inspired by Polynesian culture, as Michigan Chronicle reported.
The drink menu, curated by Darryl Chan from New York City’s The Portrait Bar, includes local twists on classic tiki drinks. Offerings include the 'Model T-ai,' a Mai Tai with Jamaican rums and Grand Marnier, and the 'Colada ‘66,' made with Greek yogurt and Detroit’s own Doctor Bird Jamaican rum. A portion of proceeds from the River Rouge cocktail will be donated to Friends of the Rouge, a non-profit supporting the Rouge River, according to ClickonDetroit.
Chefs Cory Barberio and Andrew Carmellini have crafted a dining menu to complement the tiki experience, with dishes like slow-cooked baby back ribs with guava glaze and crispy taro chips with charred pineapple salsa.
Model T-iki also supports local initiatives, with proceeds from the River Rouge cocktail benefiting conservation efforts for Southeast Michigan’s watershed, as mentioned in a report by MetroTimes.
For those seeking a winter escape, Model T-iki offers a tropical retreat with a focus on community and conservation. Visit Evening Bar's website for more details and the full menu.
