The tiki community was thrilled to hear that there would be a new Trader Vic’s in Las Vegas. Then we got a look at it and hearts fell. The Vegas Vic’s is like no other Vic’s around, and not in a good way. Trader Vic’s, the brand, is about the original faux polynesian hideaways made popular in the ’40s and ’50s. They are cluttered, dim, and moody. When in a Trader Vic’s restaurant, one should be able to imagine, without closing one’s eyes, that they are in a tropical island hideaway in the South Pacific.

Trader Vic’s in Las Vegas is huge, bright, airy, and modern! The look is much more “contemporary tropical” and is clearly targeted at the hip, younger, “old stuff sucks” crowd. Now, I’ll admit that I actually really liked the decor and would not mind hanging out there, if they only called it something else. Call it “Tropical Tony’s” or “Paradise on the Strip”.

And let’s please change the name of the drink they call a Mai Tai. It’s Trader Vic’s, for heaven’s sake! “Trader” Vic Bergeron invented the Mai Tai! Why can’t they get that one thing right?! The drink I received was clearly made from a mix and contained ingredients that should never go in a Mai Tai, yet it did not have the critical mint garnish. It wasn’t a bad drink, it just wasn’t a Mai Tai!

The food was hit and miss. Our appetizer was quite good, but my salad was mediocre. My companion had better luck with his entree.

In summary, don’t go expecting a traditional Trader Vic’s experience, you’ll be sorely disappointed. However, if you want a slightly over-priced decent meal and drinks in a bright, shiny space, or on a patio overlooking the strip, give it a try. You could definitely do worse.