A year after closing, the lovingly tacky luau-themed nightclub, Tiki Bob’s, soon could be officially uncrowned.
Former owner Erik Brockdorff is selling the 12-foot, neon palm tree sign that topped the Shockoe Bottom hotspot. It’s for sale through Craigslist, and Brockdorff writes that he’s “taking best offers.” Let the bidding war begin.
Most of the kitschy decor — hula girl lamps, bamboo and all — was auctioned off, given away or sold on Craigslist, former general manager Brian Barzoloski says.
In its 16 years, the club at 110 N. 18th St. became known for big partying and memorable sights. Themed parties. “Real World” cast and adult-movie star appearances. And who could forget Jell-O wrestling matches?
When Tiki Bob’s threw down with its final dance beat and drink-filled Friday night a year ago this week, regulars were invited to take home their favorite items.
“They took surf boards off the wall,” Barzoloski says. “Seeing people walk down the street after 2 a.m. on our last night was pretty entertaining.”
But the neon sign would be the biggest prize by far for any Tiki collector.
Last year, Barzoloski and Brockdorff told the Times-Dispatch that there was no more room for just a club amidst the growth of Richmond’s food scene.
Brockdorff owns, and Barzoloski is general manager of, On the ROX. The decidedly more food-driven bar opened in 2012 and is just a walk across 18th Street from their former club landmark.
