M
I visited this nicely tucked 2nd-story venue in May of ’25 after a very high-temperature afternoon. I arrived at 16:47 on a Friday and chose to dine in the restaurant section. I was looking forward to an early dinner and a couple of tiki-themed concoctions, but was first exceedingly thirsty from outdoor activities. I asked for a menu and a glass of ice water while reviewing the menu. The server refused the water request and advised water would be served only after I completed my order. This is the first time in memory ever having been refused water at an establishment before placing the order. This certainly inhibited a full review of the complete menu in my need to expeditiously secure that glass of water. I ordered something I thought would be swift prep for the kitchen staff and an as-yet uncraved Mai Tai in order to hurry receipt of that water; and fortunately was served at 17:04. I had to hydrate a few more minutes before even feeling up to tasting the Mai Tai, unattended thirst delaying my intended cocktail kick-off time by at least 15 minutes. Ideally, I’d have been slaked and receiving the first cocktail before the meal. So, behind schedule, and due to water refill concerns on a black-flag afternoon, I felt it prudent to cap it at the one Mai Tai; although, I really would have preferred to make this a sampling event. The atmosphere was good… not as in-depth as some other tiki venues such as Frankie’s or Hugman’s. The food was fine, nothing pretentious, very appropriately priced; and I ordered a dessert as well, but only after thirst was slaked. I tipped the server 20% as a minimum social convention only; I would like to believe they were dealing with outside private stresses. I have read other Tonga Hut reviews both pro and con, and perhaps will try this venue one more time if convenient to see if my next experience differs.
… moreFanC
This place is fun!!!
Daniel and his stylish pink lenses are a Vibe and so is this tiki bar!
Especially for anyone staying at the Hyatt,
it’s right across the street!
The restaurant is upstairs so you receive outside views to people watch and sip your vacay cocktails and for me that is everything you want in a tiki bar.
And….happy hour!!!
Enjoy the MaiTais and the Vibes!
… moreJon Gosling
Great first experience…
We went on a Sunday in the late afternoon and things were quiet in between rushes which made for a great time. The hostess, who perhaps was one of the owners gave us a quick tour before seating us out on the front balcony. We had just popped in on outer way home to check it out so only jad one drink each and all were excellent. Service was good all around and we are looking forward to returning for sure.
… moreElisabeth
On the pricey side, view is great if you get outdoor seating. Food is also very good
… morePete Reckard
We always have a great experience at the Tonga Hut! Love sitting on the balcony overlooking Palm Canyon Drive! We try to go on Thursday evenings to watch the happenings during the Village Fest.
… moreCarmen Izquierdo-Oliva
Absolutely amazing! Me and my husband are locals at the Tonga Hut in LA so we were excited to check this location out for my birthday weekend. I can’t emphasize what a great experience we had—from the food (which LA doesn’t have), to the drinks, and the fantastic service—I’d give it a 10/10. The LA location definitely has a lot to learn from their Palm Springs sister location! Daniel was our server and he was super fun and awesome all around. Our food and drinks always came out super quick, which we were very impressed by. We will definitely be coming back!
… moreLeif Satermo
You must scan a QR code to view the menu. The place is pretty cool, props on the atmosphere. The food is good, although the portions are a little small. Pictured is the PuPu platter and Kahlua pork sliders. The cocktails are strong and the food is grilled to perfection. The atmosphere is great, again. Nailed the tropical island vibes.
… moreBill Bauer
This is THE best all and end all of tiki bars! Drinks are A++ and , by Palm Springs standards, a good value. Bar tenders are fantastic and real tiki devotees!
… moreElka
The drinks and personality seemed to be the highlight of the place. Could the Pupu Platter food have been hotter? Yes. Was it fun to have a mini grill to heat things on? Yes! There is one m/f bathroom. It got quite loud in the booth area.
… moreJaqueline Osuna
As a local growing up in Palm Springs I always was curious about this place but left disappointed. After ten minutes or more no one acknowledge us or came to ask what we would like to drink. When leaving they said “sorry” or “busy night” which didn’t seem sincere like a (whatever) body language and tone of voice. The server did acknowledge the table next to us and asked if they need anything but didn’t look at us or say I’ll be right with you.
… more