I took this photo on October 9, 2012, after eating supper here. I needed to take some photos of the newly refurbished sign at The Palms Motor Hotel, but I knew I couldn't leave for that site before taking some photos here. This one turned out best.
Quick info on The Alibi's Web site: The Alibi Tiki Lounge is located in North Portland at 4024 North Interstate Avenue. We are open daily from 11am - 2am, with Karaoke every night form 9pm - 2am! Happy Hour in the Bar is from 3pm - 7pm with food and drink specials. Call ahead (503) 287-5335 for Reservations!
The History Of The Alibi
A Horse & Buggy Stop Beginning
The orignal home of The Alibi was a nice stop for horeses and buggies as they traveled up and down the dirt trail known as the Inter-state in the late 1800's. "Chat-n-Nibble", as it was known to travelers then, served up some of the finest grub a fellow could find at a breakfast and lunch counter. A small beginning!
The Max Alibi
The next business to call the spot home was a tiny tavern run by Mr. Peterson. "Max Alibi" was a popular spot to stop, and saw much success under his ownership. Peterson gave the business a name that would last far into the 1990's.
Island Inspirations
The third owner, Roy Ell, saw a jewel of a restaurant in this little stop. He leased the building in 1947 and renamed the place "The Alibi". Roy spent some time traveling to Hawaii and felt his friends and neighbhors deserved to experience the beauty and style he found on the islands. Polynesian decor was his goald to enhance his restaurant, even though it was hard to find suppliers.
The '50's found "The Alibi" expanding to a full restaurant and lounge. The building engulfed a home which sat behind the restaurant and The Alibi was proving itself popular. The famed food and delightful exotic surroundings kept bringing folks back for a piece of paradise right in their own community.
Taking Over The Neighbors
In the 70's, Roy added a magnificent 3-dimensional mural and had carved rails installed in The Alibi. By the 80's, The Alibi was a grand replica of the South Pacific, even businesses from overseas came to copy the decor.
Roy took his next step, purchased the property from Mr. Peterson, and engulfed the Texaco Station next door for parking.
Today, Like Yesterday
In the 80's, The Alibi was leased once again, with the agreement that the decor would not be altered. In 1991, the current owner, Larry White, took over and has agreed to keep the style and flourish that has been so magnificent for some 40 years.
Like A Tropical Paradise
As you sit in The Alibi lounge, restaurant, or one of the many nooks and shelters, under shell lamp shades, you can almost feel the cool summer breeze blow across the beach. Sipping tantalized tropical drinks, letting the atmosphere sink in, nibbling on seafood appetizers and entrees, it's easy to relax and enjoy a mini vacation in the midst of your day.
I posted the neon sign at The Palms on October 10, if you'd like to take a look at it. It's worth the bit of time to go find that one at the blog.
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