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| - I stopped by Hidden Harbor last night with a good friend. Having heard that there was a brand new tiki bar in Squirrel Hill (of all places!), I suggested we check it out. My friend was game, and the weather was appropriately frigid, so we took the bus over so we could get a proper buzz on from island-themed drinks.
Upon arrival, we were enthusiastically greeted by the host, and were informed that no tables were available, but that we could hang out at the drink rail in the corner while awaiting one. We decided to do that, so we hung out there while imbibing our first round of drinks: a fassionola fizz for me ($12) and an Ishmael for my friend ($11). As the name might suggest, the fizz is a gin-based drink with fassionola (tropical fruit cordial), seltzer, and cream, and made for a light and refreshing start to the evening. The Ishmael is a darker drink based on two types of rum that also includes fig, guava, and almond extract, and seemed quite stiff from the sip I tried. Upon obtaining the drinks, after having been at the drink rail approx. 20 min, a table opened up and we were able to sit down.
Upon being seated, we decided to try the tuna tacos ($10). For me, these were the letdown of the night, given that one order consisted of three tiny tacos, and I found them rather flavorless. The seared tuna tasted like what I imagine cat food must taste like (bland and chewy) and the harissa aioli didn't add any kick--the only redeeming aspect was the falafel croutons. After having consumed them and finished off our first round of drinks, we opted for a second round. This time, I ordered the tropic thunder and my friend ordered the Josie's faraway vacation ($12 each). In contrast to my first drink, the tropic thunder was a rum-based drink with various flavors, including bitters, absinthe, grapefruit, cinnamon, and lime. To my surprise, the Josie's ended up being my favorite drink of the evening. Also a rum-based drink, it contains coconut milk and cream, as well as basil and a hint of chili, and is served frozen, such that it tastes kind of like a mix between an alcoholic slushee and milkshake. Had I ordered that drink, I can guarantee that it would have gone down *waaay* too smoothly and easily--so perhaps it's a good thing I didn't...
The ambiance was warm and had fun tiki-themed accents, including the wooden mask carvings that can be viewed in photos. Service was pretty good, despite it being super crowded. Given that they're currently in their soft opening phase, it's unclear whether the final menu will have the same items and whether the selection will be expanded. I would hope that it ultimately includes some more substantial food offerings similar to its sister IBC next door--though the tuna tacos and the offerings there lead me to wonder whether they'd be similar in quality. One additional thing worth noting is the poko-lulu drink, a bowl drink intended for sharing between 4 people, which seems quite popular based on my observation (disclaimer: you'll definitely need a ride home if you order it!). If you're in the mood for something surprising and different, or just want to escape the depressing PGH winter weather, definitely be sure to check out this fun new addition to the Squirrel Hill community!
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