#2618 - Lee's Tahitian, Richland, WA - 9/12/2014

Lee's Tahitian, Richland, WA

Established as the Vina's Tahitian in 1952, following approximately two years as "The Mixer," Lee's Tahitian is a classic, mid-century dive tiki bar that also appears to be the longest running bar in the Tri-Cities area of Washington state. It retains the striking neon signage outside, a Witco fountain, space age interior lighting, a tiki lounge in back, and another bar in the Chinese restaurant portion in front. For a little more history, I will quote the Critiki entry:

"Lee's Tahitian is an old Chinese/Polynesian restaurant in Richland. It opened in 1952 as Vina's Tahitian, became C & L Tahitian in 1956 (so named for its then-owners, Chin & Lee), and then became Lee's Tahitian when Lee bought out Chin in 1976. The restaurant changed ownership in 1996 and became a karaoke bar. Today it is admittedly downtrodden, but still has tons of beautiful history, starting with the dramatic neon signage that remains. Inside there are still traces of Polynesian decor, including some Witco pieces."

The drinks in the lounge are of classic dive bar quality and strength with lots of candy-style cocktails to coax amateur drinkers to the karaoke microphone.

1342 Jadwin Ave, Richland, WA 99354 - (509) 946-1068
Est. 1952
Previous bars in this location: The Mixer
Web site: facebook
Articles ranked: tikiroom - critiki - yelp - tripadvisor