Holy Monkey ; A Tiki Bar in the Heart of Lausanne

The Holy Monkey, in Lausanne, draws its inspiration from the Tiki movement. More than a simple concept, a true philosophy comes to life here.

Holy Monkey

A Tiki Bar in Lausanne

The Holy Monkey is one of Lausanne’s must-visit bars. Tucked away in the Cité, in the heart of the old town, it offers cocktails inspired by the Tiki philosophy. The menu offers an indulgent, varied selection of refined drinks, with or without alcohol. For smaller appetites, homemade pizzas complete the offer. They go perfectly with the drinks. A unique place to spend a pleasant moment.

Cocktails & Pizzas in Lausanne

Inside the Holy Monkey

The Tiki movement was born in the United States in the 1930s, inspired by Polynesian culture. Tiki cocktails traditionally combine several rums, exotic liqueurs and tropical fruit. That is exactly what Randy had in mind. His name is familiar in the area: he is one of the founders of Le Vestibule (in French), just a few steps away. After the Prohibition era, Randy now sets sail for Polynesia. The journey is always made with finesse and remarkable creativity.

The Tiki Movement, a Polynesian Dream

Tiki culture was born in California in the 1930s. Bars like Don the Beachcomber and then Trader Vic’s imagined a fantasy Pacific. Torches, bamboo and carved masks created an escapist atmosphere. The cocktails, made with rum and fruit juice, were served in decorated glasses. The Mai Tai, often attributed to Trader Vic, became its symbol. The trend has been making a strong comeback for a few years.

The Holy Monkey ; 50 Shades of Rum

Randy’s invitation to discover this flavour-rich place cannot be refused. Le Vestibule had already won hearts, so curiosity runs high. Arriving early in the evening, the atmosphere is captivating. The decor, as careful as its older sibling’s, reveals a place where every detail is thought through. A true world to explore.

The tasting begins with a Mai Tai, an emblematic classic cocktail that never disappoints. Every sip is savoured. Then comes an alcohol-free option: the Holy My Grog. This refreshing drink combines grapefruit, lime and honey. A delicious four-cheese pizza goes with these drinks.

A memorable first experience, and certainly not the last. Only one question remains for the next visit to this street. Between Prohibition and Polynesia, the heart is already torn.

Rue Cité-Devant 11B, 1005 Lausanne
Website

Holy Monkey

Article written following an invitation from the Holy Monkey