2 /5 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, Id 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 Frankies or Hugmans. 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.
