Columbus is about to get a whole lot more colorful… and possibly a little more haunted (???).
The wildly popular Huli Huli Tiki Lounge in Powell is officially opening a second location in downtown Columbus, and the setting could not be more unexpected.
We’re talking about The Jury Room at 22 E Mound St, Columbus, OH
Yes… that Jury Room.
From Courtrooms to Cocktails (and Maybe Ghosts?)
If you’ve never heard of The Jury Room, here’s the quick rundown…
This place dates all the way back to 1831, which basically makes it ancient by Columbus standards. Over the years, it’s worn a lot of hats, but most recently, it’s been known as:
- An event venue
- A hotspot for ghost tours and paranormal investigations (shoutout to our friend Bucky Cutright and Columbus Ghost Tours)
- A building that very much feels like it has… stories
And now? It’s about to become home to one of the most vibrant, over-the-top cocktail experiences in Central Ohio.
No big deal.
Huli Huli’s Vibe Is… Not That
If you’ve been to the original Huli Huli Tiki Lounge in Powell, you already know the deal:
- Bright, colorful lighting
- Wildly creative tropical cocktails
- Not your typical midwestern bar atmosphere
Now compare that to The Jury Room:
- Old-school metal ceilings
- Dark wood trim everywhere
- Luxurious chandeliers hanging overhead
This is less “island getaway” and more “you’re about to be cross-examined in 1897.” The contrast couldn’t be more obvious, and that’s exactly why this is so intriguing.
Will There Be Ghost Tours… But With Tiki Drinks?
This is the question I cannot stop thinking about.
Like… are we about to sip a glowing rum cocktail while someone talks to spirits in the corner? Because if so, I will be the first to sign up.
Before I get ahead of myself, there’s no official word yet on whether ghost tours or investigations will continue in the space, but honestly… combining the two will make for an electric duo. Just saying.
A Nod to the Past (In a Very Huli Huli Way)
One thing Huli Huli does really well is honoring history… just in their own, slightly chaotic way.
Their current space in Powell pulls inspiration from the legendary Kahiki Supper Club, one of Columbus’ most beloved (and deeply missed) restaurants.
If you want a little nostalgia trip, you can check that out here:
So while this new location might feel like a total curveball, there’s a good chance they’ll find a way to blend The Jury Room’s historic charm with their signature tiki energy.
Which sounds like a weird dream I’d have after eating too many Oreos before bed.
When Is It Opening?
According to Columbus Underground, the new downtown location is expected to open sometime in April or May.
Until then, you can still get your tiki fix at their original spot:
📍 26 W Olentangy St, Powell, OH
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