Tropical Paradise: After bringing a touch of tiki to Wellington Street with his first venture, Honi Honi, cocktail man Max Traverse has opened up Mahalo Tiki Lounge. The tropical-themed hideout takes up the rooftop space at Wan Chai’s QRE Plaza, which seemed to have opened up one cool concept after another.

Look & Feel: Holiday vibes, holiday vibes, holiday vibes. There’s palm trees, bamboo, wooden furniture — you name it. While Honi Honi takes a more laidback approach, Mahalo does the Polynesian thing on a much bigger scale — what with the all-encompassing view of Mid-Levels East as its backdrop.

On the Menu: You’ll find island-inspired classics on the cocktail menu and many more concoctions made with lesser-known rums. We like the Mahalo Mule, with Clement Lere Canne Rum, lime and cranberry juices plus ginger beer, garnished with kaffir lime leaves.

Service: During busier times it can be a little touch and go, but generally service is sincere. The staffers usually won’t hesitate to make recommendations.

Jeng: Tired of trying to squeeze into some hipster bolthole on this side of Wan Chai? Come spread out with the fresh air on the terrace. It’s hard to argue with the views and the effort put into these creative cocktails.

Not So Jeng: Some of the cocktails are on the sweeter, fruitier side of things, so if you prefer bitter negronis or Belvedere on the rocks, you can probably give this a miss.

Great For: After-work drinks, big parties.

FYI: Mahalo is open for lunch!

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