Trader Vic
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Victor Jules Bergeron, Jr. (December 10, 1902 - October 11, 1984) was the founder of a chain of Polynesian-themed restaurants that bore his nickname, Trader Vic, and one of two people who claimed have invented the Maitai. The other was his amicable competitor for many years, Don the Beachcomber.
Starting with $700 in 1932, Bergeron opened a small bar/restaurant across from his parent's grocery store in Oakland, California named Hinky Dink's. As its popularity spread, the menu and decor developed an increasingly tropical flair; Hinky Dink's soon became Trader Vic's.
During the Tiki boom of the '50s and '60s, as many as 25 Trader Vic's restaurants were in operation around the world, all featuring the popular mix of south-seas artifacts, unique cocktails, and exotic cuisine. While many have since closed, several still exist: Emeryville, Beverly Hills, Chicago, London, Atlanta and various parts of the Near East.
Trader Vic also published several books of recipes and stories, including "Trader Vic's Book of Food and Drink" and "Trader Vic's Kitchen Kibitzer".
External link
- Trader Vic's company website (http://www.tradervics.com/)