I usually like my tiki bars dark but in the case of Matt “Captain” Wittstock’s Boom Boom Room, keep the lights on! I’ve always wondered what a home tiki bar might have looked like in the 70’s and I think I found my answer. There are so many cool little details inside the Boom Boom Room that it would be a sin to turn the lights out. Here is Matt’s story …
What is the tiki scene like where you live?
Matt- It’s just starting to get going in Detroit. Two bars opened in the past couple years and they’re both great! Mutiny Bar and Lost River. Other than that, there’s quite a few private collectors and home/basement Tiki rooms.
What brought you into the tiki lifestyle and how long has it been part of your life?
Matt- When I was a kid my parents took us to Florida on vacation. First up was Disney World and the Enchanted Tiki Room that blew me away! And of course, the Pirates of The Caribbean ride was also a big influence. After Disney, we would go to the Florida Keys and visit all the local bars and restaurants that had a ton of Tiki decor. As an adult, I started collecting mid-century modern furniture and I started to mix in all my love for Tiki stuff. Once I had a place to build a full blown Tiki room I did. That’s how the Boom Boom Room came to life!
Any story behind the name of your bar?
Matt- I wish I had a great story to tell you. I honestly probably heard the name in an old movie and it stuck with me. I never knew there were other Boom Boom Rooms until recently!
What is your favorite Tiki drink? Why?
Matt- I know all things Tiki usually revolve around rum. But I’ve got to be honest with you, I’m a gin man. I also love a good margarita! If I had to pick a rum drink it would be a Mai Tai. I love a good classic!
What is your favorite Tiki bar? Not including your own!
Matt- One of my favorite places on earth is Frankie’s Tiki Room in Vegas. That one is hard to beat! I dig The Golden Tiki in Vegas as well. I travel for work and whenever I’m in LA I have to hit Tiki Ti, Tonga Hut and a slew of other local LA Tiki bars. As far as local Detroit Tiki bars Mutiny and Lost River are both great!
Outside of great drinks, what do you think are essential elements in creating the perfect Tiki environment?
Matt- Start with a great bar and some decent bamboo furniture, then layer in lighting, foliage and as much Tiki odds and ends as possible. I also like to add some nautical stuff. Also, the right type of music is essential! A water feature is something that can make the space feel more tropical as well, Layering stuff is essential. The more stuff you have crammed in the space the more fun it is to look at.
What does the future hold for you and your home tiki bar?
Matt- There’s a saying that pertains to Tiki bars: “The bar is never finished, just keep layering things even if you have to start hanging stuff from the ceiling!” Ha-ha! I swear mine will never be done. I love collecting and decorating way too much.
Anything else you would like to add?
Matt- I’m just super stoked that we have forums on social media for this stuff! It’s great to share the love for Tiki with other like-minded kick ass people!
