Earlier this year I had the opportunity to enjoy an incredible night at the Californian tiki bar Strong Water. Just a stones throw from Disneyland in Anaheim – where so much of the modern tiki bar aesthetic was popularised – this James Beard Award semi-finalist is now one of the hottest destinations in the city.
I caught up with the bar’s co-founders, Ying Chang and Robert Adamson, to learn more about how the bar came to be. We talk about how they grew their cocktail and food menus, and how they lent on the history of tiki bars in California (where they originated in the 1930s) to make something truly special: a tiki bar in a shipwreck, as the spectacular theming goes.
We also talk more broadly about how they’ve seen the Anaheim culinary scene and nightlife change over the last decade, and the influence of Disneyland on their own offering. And they know more about this than most – it’s not the first Anaheim bar that the pair have opened.
Back in 2016, their Blind Rabbit Speakeasy opened at the Anaheim Packing House – just minutes from where they’re located now. Though they sold this location to focus on Strong Water, here they brought the first speakeasy to the city. And with Strong Water, they’re perfecting the experience that Disneyland helped establish in the region just down the road. And they’re not done yet – a new bar, Double Luck, is set to open next year.
But before those doors open, let’s go behind-the-scenes with Ying and Robert on one of my favourite bars in America – Strong Water.
Firstly, Ying and Robert, congratulations on being a part of the recent James Beard Awards’ semi-finalist list.
Visiting Strong Water earlier in the year, it was clear there wass so much care and detail placed on everything you do there. Given that passion, and attention to detail, what does recognition like this mean to you personally, and what does it mean to the restaurant more broadly?
Thank you so much! It’s truly an honor to be recognized as a James Beard Awards finalist. For us personally, this acknowledgment is incredibly validating. It feels like a testament to the hard work, creativity, and dedication that I’ve poured into my craft over the years. It’s humbling and exciting to see that effort resonate with others in such a significant way.
For Strong Water, this recognition is a massive milestone. It not only validates the team’s commitment to excellence but also shines a spotlight on the restaurant in a way that can open up new opportunities. It’s a chance for more people to discover what we’re all about, and it really underscores the importance of the teamwork and passion that goes into every detail here. It’s not just a personal win but a collective achievement that we all share and celebrate.
In the decade since your first concept opened, what are the biggest changes you’ve noticed in the food/drink scene in Anaheim? And what part do you feel you have played in that evolution? I, for one, can’t believe how much has popped up in the city since I first visited your first concept in 2016!
It’s amazing how much the food and drink scene in Anaheim has evolved over the past decade. When we opened our first concept in 2014, the culinary landscape was relatively modest, with fewer options for adventurous dining and craft cocktails. Now, Anaheim has become a vibrant hub for foodies and cocktail enthusiasts alike, with an incredible array of innovative restaurants, bars, and food halls.
One of the biggest changes I’ve noticed is the emphasis on unique, high-quality experiences. People are more interested in craft, authenticity, and creativity than ever before. There’s been a significant rise in artisanal and locally sourced offerings, as well as a growing appreciation for craft cocktails and specialized dining experiences. This shift has turned Anaheim into a destination for those seeking more than just a meal, but a memorable culinary adventure.
As for our first concept’s role in this transformation, I’d like to think we’ve been a part of setting a higher standard and inspiring others to push boundaries. We were among the early adopters of the craft cocktail movement in the area, and our focus on creating an intimate, speakeasy atmosphere with a meticulous approach to both food and drink has hopefully encouraged others to bring their own unique visions to life. It’s incredibly rewarding to see the city flourish with so many new and exciting concepts, and to feel like we’ve played a small part in sparking that growth.
How did your experiences with your first concept influence what you ended up doing (or not doing) when you set up Strong Water?
The experiences we had with our first concept were foundational in shaping the approach we took when setting up Strong Water Anaheim. The first concept taught us a lot about the importance of creating a unique, welcoming, and immersive experience, not just serving great food and drinks.
Here’s a few bullet points on how we did that and how that translated into Strong Water Anaheim:
1. Crafting a Unique Identity:
At our first concept, we emphasized creating a speakeasy vibe that transported guests to another era. For Strong Water, we wanted to create a similarly immersive experience, but with a different theme. This led to the idea of a tiki bar with a nautical twist, where guests feel like they’re stepping into a maritime adventure. The goal was to offer something distinct from our first concept, but with the same attention to thematic detail.
2. Focus on Ambiance and Storytelling:
The speakeasy showed us how powerful atmosphere can be in enhancing the dining and drinking experience. At Strong Water Anaheim, we took this to heart by designing a space that tells a story. From the decor to the music and even the way we present our drinks, every element is designed to transport our guests to an exotic, seafaring world. This concept of storytelling through ambiance became a cornerstone of what we do at Strong Water Anaheim.
3. Commitment to Quality and Creativity:
The success of our first concept menu taught us the value of quality ingredients and creative presentation. At Strong Water Anaheim, we applied these lessons
by offering an innovative menu that features fresh, high-quality ingredients and playful, inventive cocktails. We wanted to maintain a high standard while also introducing new and exciting flavors that would surprise and delight our guests.
4. Customer Experience and Community Building:
Running our first concept emphasized the importance of exceptional customer service and building a community around your establishment. At Strong Water, we made it a priority to create a welcoming and inclusive environment where people feel like they’re part of a community. This focus on building strong relationships with our guests has been crucial to our approach.
5. Learning from Challenges:
The challenges faced at our first concept, whether operational or creative, provided valuable lessons in flexibility and resilience. When establishing Strong Water, we were able to anticipate potential hurdles and navigate them more effectively, ensuring smoother operations and a better guest experience. Overall, our first concept was a tremendous learning experience that influenced every aspect of Strong Water’s creation. It was about taking the best elements, learning from the challenges, and creating something new and exciting that stands on its own while still reflecting the core values that made our first concept special.
Strong Water leans into the vast history of the Tiki Bar in California, as well as the very nature of a well themed dining experience. What are some of your earliest memories in terms of themed bars/restaurants and tiki bars that perhaps lent itself to your theming decisions here?
Reflecting on the creation of Strong Water and its deep roots in the history of tiki culture, several early memories and experiences played a significant role in shaping our approach to theming and atmosphere.
Growing up in California, visits to Disneyland were a frequent and formative experience. The park’s attention to detail and immersive storytelling in themed areas like Adventureland and attractions such as the Enchanted Tiki Room left a lasting impression. The whimsical, transportive atmosphere of these spaces fascinated me and instilled an appreciation for the magic of well-crafted environments.
I’ve always been fascinated by nautical adventures and pirate lore. Growing up, the mystique of pirates and seafaring tales captured my imagination. This fascination naturally influenced the maritime theme of Strong Water, aiming to immerse guests in a world that blends tiki culture with the excitement of the high seas.
When creating Strong Water, these early memories and experiences influenced every aspect of the design and concept. We aimed to create a space that honors the rich tradition of tiki bars in California, combining it with a maritime theme that invites guests on a whimsical, immersive journey. By drawing from a diverse range of inspirations, we crafted an environment that blends nostalgia, adventure, and escapism, providing an unforgettable dining experience that stands out in the modern culinary landscape.
What would you say sets you apart from other themed restaurants/bars?
What sets us apart from other themed restaurants and bars is our dedication to creating a fully immersive and unique experience from the moment guests step through our doors. At Strong Water, we don’t just serve food and drinks; we transport our guests to another world entirely—a sunken ship where the adventure begins.
Our cocktails are not just drinks; they’re crafted experiences. Each cocktail is carefully designed with high-quality ingredients and an artistic presentation that aligns with our tiki theme. The attention to detail in our award-winning drinks, from the “Zombie King” to our nods to classic tiki recipes, ensures a memorable and unique tasting journey. On the note we are sure to include the rich history of our classic cocktails by paying homage to those who came before us and mentioning them in our menu.
We serve our cocktails in specially designed tiki mugs that add to the overall thematic experience. This not only enhances the aesthetic appeal but also provides guests with a tangible souvenir of their adventure at Strong Water.
Our menu, curated by Executive Chef Steve Kling, stands out with its Asian Fusion offerings. Dishes like the Loco Moco Burger and Hawaiian Garlic Butter Shrimp combine traditional tiki influences with contemporary culinary techniques, creating a unique dining experience that is both familiar and innovative.
This theming of food is our way of celebrating our roots and what Don the Beachcomber did with his restaurants.
Editors Note: You can learn more about Don, and the history of Tiki Bars in LA, in this documentary:
Our décor is not just visually appealing but also rich in thematic elements and Easter eggs that pay homage to the history and culture of tiki. The portraits of Admiral Nelson and Admiral Vernon, for instance, is a playful yet reverent nod to tiki legends, creating layers of storytelling and discovery that guests can explore.
We are deeply committed to honoring the roots of tiki culture and its pioneers. By incorporating elements that pay tribute to figures like Don the Beachcomber, we connect our guests to the rich history and tradition of tiki, making their experience not just entertaining but also educational. Every aspect of Strong Water is designed to tell a story. From the concept of a sunken ship to the thematic cocktail names and décor, we immerse our guests in a narrative that makes their visit an adventure, not just a meal.
In summary, what sets Strong Water apart is our commitment to creating a holistic, immersive experience that combines meticulously crafted cocktails, unique culinary offerings, and a richly detailed environment. We go beyond the typical themed restaurant or bar to offer an adventure that captivates and transports our guests to a world of nautical mystery and tiki delight.
Someone described this bar to me, in advance, as carrying the spirit of Disneyland’s Adventureland outside the walls of the park (but, for adults). How much has Disneyland influenced what you’ve done here?
Disneyland, especially Adventureland, has been a significant influence on the creation of Strong Water. The park’s ability to craft immersive, thematic experiences that transport visitors to different worlds is something we wanted to replicate, but with an adult twist. Here’s how Disneyland influenced our approach at Strong Water:
Just as Disneyland meticulously crafts every aspect of its themed lands, we aimed to create an environment at Strong Water that immerses our guests in a maritime adventure. From the moment guests step inside, they are greeted by the ambiance of a sunken ship, complete with nautical décor, vintage maritime artifacts, and tropical elements that echo the exotic allure of Adventureland.
Disneyland’s Adventureland is built around the narrative of exploration and discovery, and we wanted to bring a similar sense of adventure to Strong Water. Our bar tells the story of a lost ship filled with treasures and stories from distant lands, mirroring the enchanting escapism found in Adventureland. This storytelling aspect helps make every visit to Strong Water feel like a journey.
At Disneyland, guests are not just visitors; they become part of the world around them. We wanted to create a similar feeling at Strong Water, where guests can leave their everyday lives behind and dive into an exotic, tiki-themed world. The goal was to make every visit an adventure, with the bar acting as a portal to a different time and place, much like the transitions guests experience between lands at Disneyland.
While Disneyland caters to all ages, our focus was on creating an adult-oriented experience that maintains the whimsy and excitement of Adventureland but with a more mature palette in mind. Our tiki drinks, served in custom-designed mugs, and our eclectic, tropical décor provide a sophisticated yet playful atmosphere that appeals to adults looking for a unique night out. Just as Disneyland offers themed dining experiences that complement the attractions, we designed our menu to enhance the overall theme of Strong Water. Our Asian Fusion dishes provide a culinary adventure that pairs perfectly with our tiki cocktails, creating a cohesive and immersive experience.
Disneyland’s attractions are known for their interactive elements and hidden details, which we mirrored in Strong Water. Our hidden “tik-easy” speakeasy, with its eclectic and tropical décor, features Easter eggs that pay homage to tiki culture and famous tiki bars like Don the Beachcomber. These hidden gems and details encourage guests to explore and discover, adding layers of engagement to their visit.
In summary, Disneyland’s influence on Strong Water is profound and multi-faceted. We drew heavily from its ability to create immersive, themed experiences that tell a story and transport guests to another world. By channeling the spirit of Adventureland, we crafted a bar that offers adults a sophisticated and enchanting escape, filled with adventure, excellent drinks, and delightful surprises.
Talk me through the process of creating a new cocktail for Strong Water. Is this all done in house? How often do you make changes/additions to your cocktail menu?
The process of creating a new cocktail at Strong Water is a meticulous and creative journey that
involves a blend of research, experimentation, and storytelling.
Here’s a detailed look at how we go about crafting our signature drinks: Step-by-Step Cocktail Creation Process
1. Conceptualization and Inspiration:
● Theme Alignment: Every cocktail starts with a concept that aligns with the overall theme of Strong Water. We draw inspiration from nautical adventures, tropical locales, and the rich history of tiki culture. For instance, we might want to create a drink that evokes the mystery of a lost island or the thrill of a pirate’s treasure.
● Seasonal Influences: We also consider seasonal ingredients and flavors that can add a fresh twist to our menu. This keeps our offerings dynamic and exciting for returning guests.
2. Ingredient Selection:
● Base Spirits: We select a base spirit that complements the cocktail’s theme. Since we focus on tiki, rum is often a go-to, but we also experiment with other spirits like gin, whiskey, or tequila to add variety.
● Flavors and Additives: We choose complementary flavors such as fresh fruits, herbs, spices, and syrups. The goal is to create a balanced and complex flavor profile that is both unique and delicious.
3. Experimentation and Tasting:
● Recipe Development: Our bartenders start by creating several variations of the cocktail, tweaking the ratios and ingredients to achieve the desired taste. This involves a lot of trial and error, as we fine-tune the flavors and presentation.
● Tasting Sessions: We conduct tasting sessions with our team to gather feedback and ensure the drink meets our high standards. These sessions help us refine the recipe further and decide on the final version.
4. Presentation and Garnishing:
● Glassware and Mugs: The presentation is crucial in creating an immersive experience. We carefully select the glassware or custom tiki mug that best fits the theme of the cocktail.
● Garnishing: We add garnishes that not only enhance the visual appeal but also contribute to the overall flavor and aroma of the drink. This could include exotic fruits, edible flowers, or aromatic herbs.
5. Story and Naming:
● Creating a Narrative: Each cocktail comes with a story that ties into the Strong Water theme. The narrative helps guests connect with the drink on a deeper level and adds to the immersive experience.
● Naming the Drink: We choose a name that reflects the cocktail’s story and theme. The name often includes playful or mysterious elements that pique the interest of our guests.
6. Menu Integration and Training:
● Menu Addition: Once a cocktail is finalized, it’s added to the menu with a detailed description and story. This helps guests understand the inspiration behind the drink and enhances their overall experience.
● Staff Training: We ensure that our staff is thoroughly trained on the new cocktail, including its ingredients, preparation, and the story behind it. This enables them to deliver a consistent and engaging experience to our guests. Yes, the entire cocktail creation process is done in-house. Our team of skilled bartenders and mixologists collaborates closely to develop new drinks, drawing on their collective expertise and creativity. This allows us to maintain a cohesive vision and ensure that every cocktail fits seamlessly into the Strong Water experience.
7. Changes and Additions to the Cocktail Menu
● Seasonal Updates: We typically update our cocktail menu seasonally, about four times a year. This allows us to introduce new flavors and ingredients that are in season, keeping the menu fresh and exciting for our guests.
● Special Events: We also create limited-edition cocktails for special events or holidays. These temporary additions provide our guests with unique experiences and give us the opportunity to experiment with new ideas.
● Guest Favorites: While we regularly update our menu, we make sure to keep our guests’ favorite cocktails available. These staples have become signatures of Strong Water and are integral to our brand.
If you’re allowed to have a favorite cocktail – which is it?
If I had to pick a favorite cocktail from our menu, it would probably be the “Naval Grog.” This drink is a perfect example of our commitment to both tradition and innovation. It’s a classic tiki cocktail with a Strong Water twist, featuring Strong Water Anaheim Lost Voyage Rum, fresh lime juice, Fresh Grapefruit Juice, Allspice Dram, Demerara Sugar and Honey. It’s served in a custom Lost Voyage Glass that adds to the experience and transports you to a faraway island. The balance of flavors and the immersive presentation make it a standout for me.
The design of your specialty mugs and bowls are second-to-none. Who do you work with on the design of these? And how many variations have you designed in the 4+ years since you opened?
At Strong Water Anaheim, the creation of our custom mugs is a true labor of love, spearheaded by our head of creative, Robert. The process begins with a mood board, where ideas for new mugs take shape, accompanied by short stories of their origins to give them depth and character. Once the vision is solidified, it’s passed on to our 3D mug designer, Alex Woody, who brings the ideas to life with detailed sketches.
After reviewing and fine-tuning the sketches, we move forward with a 3D-printed model. This prototype is then passed around our bar team, who evaluate it for key design elements such as usability, volume, accessibility, function, and form. Only after rigorous testing and adjustments do we send the design to our main supplier, Tiki Farm, for production.
This meticulous process, from initial concept to finished product, takes about 18 months. While slow and methodical, it ensures that each mug we introduce not only complements the Strong Water experience but is a work of art in its own right.
Since opening in 2019, we’ve designed around about half a dozen unique mugs and one bowl. Each one has its own story and adds a distinctive element to our guests’ drinking experience. The variety keeps our barware fresh and collectible for our patrons.
It’s easy to get focused on the drinks, but the food menu is fantastic. You’ve really got some incredible takes on Hawaiian classics – often with a twist (how could I not try the Loco Moco Burger!?). How does the menu today compare to what you launched with in 2019? What are the mainstays and what have been some of your favorite additions since?
When we first launched in 2019, our menu focused on asian fusion dishes. Over the years, we’ve expanded and refined the menu to include a wider range of Asian Fusion dishes. Staple dishes like the Loco Moco Burger and Hawaiian Garlic Butter Shrimp have remained popular and continue to be guest favorites.
We’ve added innovative dishes like “Togarashi Seared Tuna” and “Coconut Curry Mussels,” which showcase our commitment to fresh, bold flavors and high-quality ingredients. These new items reflect our ongoing desire to evolve and offer exciting culinary experiences.
What is your favorite hidden feature of the Strong Water design that people should keep their eye out for when in the venue?
One of the most delightful hidden gems is the painting in the Captain’s Quarters that secretly doubles as a pass to the kitchen. When we first opened Strong Water in 2019, the Captain’s Quarters operated as a gin bar, and we kept the door closed to maintain an air of exclusivity. To avoid staff constantly opening and closing the door unnecessarily, we devised a clever system: an old painting and a light switch. When food was ready, the light would signal staff, creating a seamless (and fun) pass-through system. It never fails to get an “ohhh” from guests when they discover it.
Another fan favorite is the quirky bathroom locks. In a humorous oversight, we initially forgot to account for locks on the bathroom doors. With so many moving parts when opening a restaurant, these things happen! To fix the problem, we installed a sliding lock—only to realize one lock wasn’t enough to hold up against guests in a hurry. So, we added over a dozen sliding locks, and now it’s one of the most talked-about features in the restrooms, giving everyone a good laugh.
There’s so much more to discover, but these are just a couple of the hidden details that make Strong Water Anaheim a truly unique experience!
Other than Disneyland, Strong Water or The Blind Rabbit for that matter, what’s one place everyone coming to Anaheim should visit?
Aside from Disneyland and Strong Water, I’d highly recommend visiting The Anaheim Packing District. It’s a vibrant food hall located in a historic building that offers a diverse array of culinary delights and a unique, community-focused atmosphere. It’s a great place to explore a variety of flavors and enjoy live music in a charming setting.
We’re excited to introduce Double Luck Bar, which will open in the early Summer 2025. This new concept aims to be a neighborhood hangout that provides a relaxed escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. With its inviting atmosphere and carefully curated offerings, Double Luck will be the perfect spot to unwind and enjoy good food and great company.
Keep an eye out for more details as we get closer to the opening!
Address: 270 S Clementine St, Anaheim, CA 92805, United States
Hours: Open 7 evenings a week – generally from 5pm to 11pm. Check their website for full opening hours.
Age Restrictions: Indoor reservations are for 21+ only.
To learn more about Strong Water, and to make a reservation for a future visit – which is requisite for indoor dining – head to their official website.
Our visit to Strong Water earlier this year was made possible thanks to support of Visit Anaheim and Strong Water. Unless otherwise credited, all photos in this article were supplied by Strong Water, and taken by Sarah King.
