Mangoritas will keep flowing awhile in Del Ray.
Six months have passed since Tiki Bar Del Ray opened, and co-owner Bill Blackburn says that his pop-up concept at 2312 Mount Vernon Avenue is running longer than expected. After all, he says, who doesn’t like a trip to the beach?
“Our pandemic-strength cocktails, paired with some good bartenders really fit the bill,” Blackburn told ALXnow. “It’s still not the permanent fixture in that space. I’m not calling it permanent. It’s just a pop-up that is running longer than expected.”
Late last year, Blackburn and his Homegrown Restaurant Group partner “Mango” Mike Anderson had a case of pop-up fever, and converted the space — formerly The Sushi Bar — into the Christmas-themed pop-up bar Joy On The Avenue. The pop-up is situated between their other restaurants – Pork Barrel BBQ and Holy Cow Del Ray, and the plan was to quickly turn around a new pop-up concept every few months — with Tiki Bar Del Ray installed in January.
Up went the Easter Island heads, thatched roof and bamboo, and it wasn’t long before Blackburn and Anderson abandoned plans to turn the place into a Mardi Gras-themed bar and other concepts.
This is all familiar territory since Anderson owned Mango Mike’s for 18 years on the West End, and Blackburn tended bar there for eight years. Still, Blackburn says, that doesn’t mean visitors should confuse it as the second coming of Mango Mike’s.
“Mango Mike’s was strictly a Caribbean bar,” Blackburn said. “The Tiki Bar is a fictional Polynesian blend of the Caribbean and the Pacific Islands with mystical and exotic drinks.”
Recent Stories

Our local therapy practice is delighted to welcome Stacey Cali, Resident in Counseling, who has openings now for new clients. Stacey specializes in therapy for women, couples, teens and families. A graduate of George Mason University’s Clinical Mental Health Counseling Masters Program, Stacey is also passionate about working with people with addiction.
Stacey’s approach: “Therapy’s a powerful combination of reflection, support and action. You’ll find sessions are filled with empowerment, compassion, goal setting and a metaphorical shovel to dig deep to find the root of your difficulties and how to move past them.”
Adds Stacey, “As a therapist who works with women, teens, couples and families, I use a personalized style of counseling, tailored to you as an individual. You’re the expert in your life, I’m just here to guide you towards transformation and healing.”
Discover Healing and Renewed Well-Being through Psychotherapy
Life’s challenges can sometimes feel overwhelming, leaving us with feelings of anxiety, depression, and uncertainty. That’s where psychotherapy can make a profound difference. Our dedicated team of experienced therapists is here to guide you on a journey towards emotional and mental well-being.
Why Choose Psychotherapy?
Made in Alexandria Fall Makers’ Market
The Made in ALX Fall Makers’ Market at Port City Brewing Co. in Alexandria is set for Sunday, Sept. 24!
This is the fall’s most fun sip-and-shop, featuring craft beer from the award-winning Port City Brewing Co. along with food,
2023 Alexandria Fall Festival
Food trucks, bounce houses, pony rides, magic shows and more at the 2023 Alexandria Fall Festival, an Alexandria Living event presented by The Patterson Group. Join us at River Farm on Sunday, Nov. 5 from 11 a.m. – 4 p.m.