The Mai Tai Turns 50 at Trader Vic’s

Located at London Hilton on Park Lane, Trader Vic’s is marking its 50th Anniversary with the creation of the Aged Mai Tai, a tribute to being the original creator of the famous Mai Tai cocktail, now one of the most popular rum drinks in the world.

The Aged Mai Tai is based on oak barrel-aged rum, combined with Trader Vic’s 60-year old signature Mai Tai syrup, offering a unique and exotic blend. Garnished with wood-fired ovenroasted pineapple, fresh lemon juice and lime, the Aged Mai Tai is available now, priced at £13.50.

The Mai Tai was originally created in 1944 in Trader Vic’s Oakland, California. Victor J. Bergeron, also known as Trader Vic, concocted a drink using 17-year old rum, fresh lime, orange curacao, a dash of rock candy syrup and a drop of French Orgeat. On serving it to friends from Tahiti, they exclaimed “Mai ta roa ae”, which translates as ‘out of this world, the best’ – and so the Mai Tai was born.

With over 30 establishments across the world, Trader Vic’s is famous for its custom-made wood-fired Chinese ovens, which can be traced back over two thousand years to the Han Dynasty. With its traditional Polynesian décor and traditional Tiki carvings, Trader Vic’s London offers a tropical retreat from city life, serving up French Polynesian island-style cuisine and expertly crafted cocktails.

Trader Vic’s London, is one of three restaurants located in Europe and the only Trader Vic’s in the UK. Since opening its doors in 1963, it has become a London favourite on the Mayfair restaurant and bar scene and its most famous guests include Charlie Chaplin and Elton John.