Bahooka Restaurant
Bahooka Ribs & Grog was opened in 1967 by brothers Ray and Dave Buhen. It quickly gained popularity for its Polynesian-inspired menu, featuring dishes such as spare ribs, seafood, and tropical drinks served in ceramic tiki mugs. The restaurant's interior was adorned with nautical and tiki-themed artifacts, including a vast collection of fish tanks filled with exotic fish.
The highlight of Bahooka was its enormous tropical fish tanks. The restaurant boasted over 100 aquariums, some of them massive, housing a wide variety of fish species. Patrons would often be entertained by the lively and colorful underwater world as they enjoyed their meals.
Bahooka History
Bahooka Ribs & Grog was founded in 1967 by brothers Ray and Dave Buhen. Ray Buhen, a renowned bartender and mixologist, brought his expertise in crafting tropical cocktails to the restaurant. The Buhen brothers were of Filipino descent and drew inspiration from their heritage to create the restaurant's unique ambiance. The opening of Bahooka coincided with the height of the tiki culture boom in the United States. Tiki-themed establishments gained popularity in the 1950s and 1960s, fueled by the fascination with Polynesian culture, exoticism, and escapism. Bahooka embraced this trend and became a beloved destination for tiki enthusiasts. Bahooka quickly gained a loyal following for its combination of delicious food, tropical drinks, and captivating atmosphere. Word of mouth and positive reviews contributed to its popularity, attracting locals and visitors alike. The restaurant became known for its kitschy, nautical-themed decor, featuring fishnets, tiki statues, and other Polynesian artifacts.
One of the defining features of Bahooka was its mouthwatering spare ribs. The restaurant's recipe for tender, flavorful ribs became legendary and a staple for many patrons. The ribs were typically served with a choice of homemade barbecue sauces, which further enhanced their appeal. Aquariums as a Distinctive Feature: Bahooka's most iconic feature was its extensive collection of aquariums. The restaurant boasted over 100 aquariums of various sizes and shapes, housing a diverse range of fish species. The fish tanks were a major draw for visitors, who were captivated by the underwater displays as they dined. Changing Ownership: In the mid-1980s, ownership of Bahooka Ribs & Grog changed hands. Ray Buhen retired from the restaurant business, and his partner Dave Buhen took over sole ownership. Dave continued to run the establishment, maintaining its unique character and preserving its traditions.
Newly Listed on eBay
Bahooka Ribs & Grog had a variety of memorabilia and collectibles that added to its unique atmosphere and charm. Here are some details about the restaurant's memorabilia and collectibles:
1. Tiki Mugs on eBay: Bahooka produced its own line of distinctive tiki mugs. These ceramic mugs were often used to serve their tropical cocktails. Each mug featured a unique design and became a sought-after collectible among tiki enthusiasts. Some of the mugs depicted tiki gods, marine life, or other Polynesian-inspired motifs.
2. Vintage Signs and Decor on eBay: The restaurant's interior was adorned with a wide array of vintage signs, nautical items, and tropical-themed decor. These items helped create an immersive and nostalgic atmosphere reminiscent of the golden age of tiki culture. The walls were adorned with vintage posters, bamboo accents, fishing nets, and other artifacts that contributed to the overall ambiance.
3. Fish Tank Decor on eBay: In addition to the actual aquariums, Bahooka incorporated various decorative elements into the fish tanks. The tanks were adorned with shipwreck replicas, sunken treasure props, and other underwater-themed decor. These embellishments added to the visual spectacle and provided a unique experience for diners.
4. Menu and Matchbooks on eBay: Bahooka's menus and matchbooks were often collected as mementos by patrons. The menus showcased the restaurant's offerings, including their famous spare ribs and other Polynesian-inspired dishes. Matchbooks, often adorned with the Bahooka logo and imagery, were popular souvenirs that visitors would take home as a reminder of their dining experience.
5. Artifacts and Polynesian Art on eBay: The restaurant incorporated various Polynesian artifacts and artwork into its decor. These included carved tiki statues, tribal masks, and other traditional Polynesian crafts. These authentic and visually striking pieces helped transport guests to an exotic and tropical world.
After several decades of operation, Bahooka Ribs & Grog closed permanently on March 10, 2013. The retirement of the Buhen brothers and the sale of the property led to the closure of the beloved restaurant. The news of its closure saddened many loyal patrons who had cherished memories of dining at Bahooka. Today, Bahooka Ribs & Grog is remembered as a beloved icon of the tiki culture and a significant part of the dining history in Southern California. Its unique blend of Polynesian ambiance, delectable spare ribs, and captivating aquariums left a lasting impression on the patrons who experienced its charm.