In Chicago's Logan Square, Lost Lake redefined the modern tiki experience through Paul McGee's masterful tropical mixology and an immersive design that elevated the genre beyond kitsch into sophisticated escapism. Without exterior signage, this hidden oasis invited discovery, embodying the spirit of adventure that defined Chicago's most celebrated tiki destination.

Founded by acclaimed bartender Paul McGee and creative director Shelby Allison under the Land & Sea Dept. hospitality group, Lost Lake emerged as a beacon of innovation in tropical cocktails. McGee, renowned for his expertise at Three Dots and a Dash, partnered with Martin Cate of San Francisco's legendary Smuggler's Cove to create an authentic yet contemporary approach to tiki culture. The bar earned national acclaim for its respectful reinterpretation of Polynesian-inspired hospitality, moving decisively away from stereotypical tiki tropes while honoring the tradition's core spirit of escapism and craftsmanship.

Lost Lake's cocktail program showcased McGee's meticulous attention to balance and fresh ingredients, featuring the signature Lost Lake cocktail alongside inventive tropical creations and carefully curated classics. The bar's extensive rum program, guided by Cate's expertise, offered tiered tastings through an exclusive rum club that educated guests on varietals and production methods. House-made syrups, fresh tropical fruits, and premium spirits defined every drink, with cocktails crafted to transport guests to distant islands through expertly balanced flavors and aromatic complexity.

The immersive tropical environment, designed in collaboration with Shelby Allison, created an authentic escape without resorting to clichéd tiki décor. Thoughtful lighting, carefully selected materials, and sophisticated tropical motifs transformed the space into a modern paradise that felt both intimate and transportive. The bar's innovative service model broke traditional boundaries, with bartenders and servers rotating roles to ensure seamless hospitality whether guests sat at the bar or occupied lounge seating. This approach fostered genuine engagement and knowledge sharing, particularly valuable for navigating the extensive rum selection and seasonal cocktail offerings.

Lost Lake represented the pinnacle of modern tiki sophistication, where Chicago's most discerning cocktail enthusiasts discovered tropical luxury without pretension. While the bar has since closed, its legacy endures as a benchmark for elevated tiki experiences, demonstrating how traditional concepts can evolve into contemporary luxury while maintaining authentic hospitality and craftsmanship.