Trent Kesterson, owner of Tiki Huna bar, says that though the tiki aesthetic is a very specific vibe, people who are passionate about the style usually have their own flair. His? Tiki meets pop culture. His small tiki bar is located in the Iron District, the outdoor dining space in North Kansas City made from shipping containers. It’s saturated in all things tiki, but with his twist — a photo of Yoda in a Hawaiian shirt, Dr. Who tchotchkes, and Neverending Story Easter eggs. If you like tiki and nerd culture, you’ll love spotting all the fun decor on the bar shelves.
Trent’s wife loves Harry Potter and said that when he first made this drink, it reminded him of the bright ruby color of the sorcerer’s stone from the first book/movie (known as the philosopher’s stone in the original British version). Dubbed the "philosopher's grog," it was a favorite at his bar last year, but he’s since revamped the menu for this summer. If you loved it then, now you can try your hand at it at home — a drink that will transport you to the halls of Hogwarts or a Polynesian beach, depending on what you’re in the mood for that day.
Philosopher’s Grog
1.5 oz Plantation 5 year rum
.5 oz Port wine
.5 oz honey syrup (1:1 ratio of honey:water)
1.25 oz Guava (Trent prefers Ceres brand)
1 dash angostura bitters
.5 oz lemon juice
Lemon peel garnish
Combine liquid ingredients into a cocktail shaker and shake vigorously. Pour into a glass with ice and garnish with lemon peel.