The Hula Hut - Tucson
Tucson, Arizona, United States
Started some time in the 1950s.
Known as a place to hear live jazz in the 1950s, legendary performer Anita O'Day sang at the Hula Hut as did "Queen of the Boogie" Hadda Brooks in 1957.
A North Coast Journal article written by Joseph Byrd states:
"The Hula Hut's facade was bamboo, cluttered with flotsam and fishing nets; inside it was lit with torches...Primitive masks and 'tribal' carvings were prominent, and tropical-themed fabrics festooned the booths. Hula girls were languorously draped around the printed menu, which featured exotic rum drinks, sweetened with fruit juices, flavored syrups and liqueurs. Beverages were usually served in equally exotic vessels, each with its garnish of fruit and oversized straw."
The Hula Hut endured a fire in 1957 and was built back better than ever. B&W newspaper photo below shows then-owner Tony Marciane and waitress Shirley Kiltz re-decorating with masks after first re-build.
However, the bar then succumbed to a second fire in 1958 which spelled its demise.
Details
- Type
- Bar
- Address
- Tucson, Arizona, United States
- Closed?
- Yes (Permanently)
- Links
