There is no shortage of restaurants, bars or lounges in Stockton, which is why the city is a great date night destination for couples looking to cut loose. For those couples in search of fun, Islanders Tiki Sports Bar & Lounge on the south end of the Mircale Mile is the perfect place for a first call.

Formerly known as the Whiskey Barrel Tavern, Islanders held its grand opening in April 2023 and has proven to be far more than a rebrand. Their revamped menus and reimagined aesthetic, crafted to bring a touch of the tropics to Stockton, has reshaped the former dive bar into a midtown hotspot.

“We are a bar & lounge and restaurant all in one. The perfect place to experience it all, and that’s what we wanted to bring to Stockton,” Islanders Bar Manager Marysela Padilla said. “We wanted to bring a different culture and different environment for people to have a safe space to relax and enjoy a bit more of a community feeling.”

Bamboo accents and tiki mask décor set the vibe as soon as you walk in, but instead of a kitschy beach theme you’ll find sleek ambiance and neon lighting. Pull up a seat at the bar, share a booth for two or host a large group around the table while Marysela and her bartenders keep the tropical flavors flowing. Add themed nights, DJs, live music, and dancing into the mix and Islanders has all the fixings for a good time. 

“We like to create a very comfortable environment here and make everyone feel at home. Kind of like a little paradise in Stockton; a place to relax and chill,” Padilla said. “It’s not just good drinks and good food, it’s good vibes also.”

The vibes will be at an all time high during Valentine’s week with Couples Night, Ladies Night, Singles Night, and a Valentine’s Day Brunch on deck. Visit the Islanders website and social media accounts for event details and updates. Reservations are strongly encouraged for special occasions and private parties.

BOTTOMS UP

A Tiki experience is incomplete without tasty Tiki drinks. Islanders boasts a full bar with a wide range of handcrafted cocktails guaranteed to wet your whistle. Be sure to try these favorites during your next visit.  

Bartender’s Choice: Hawaiian Margarita 

Tequila, Lilikoi/passion fruit puree, pineapple juice, lime juice, triple sec.

“It’s very light,” Padilla said of this Happy Hour staple. “If someone wants a drink with tequila that’s not too heavy and not too sweet, it’s the perfect drink. It’s very refreshing.”

Crowd Favorite: Hawaiian Sunset

 Vodka, Orgeat Liqueur, lemon & lime juice, grenadine.

“This if for the vodka lovers,” Padilla said. “Order this if you like sweet.”

For the Couples: Tiki Bowl

Vodka, gin, tequila, rum, triple sec, pineapple juice, orange juice, grenadine. 

“It’s got all the good stuff,” Padilla said. “If you’re coming in for couples’ night, you should definitely order the Tiki Bowl. It’s great to share, it’s fun when we light it on fire and it’s a whole experience like you’re on the islands.”

MORE THAN JUST DRINKS

Take advantage of the late-night kitchen that closes at 10pm with a variety of fusion menu items, including:

Small Bites

Salt and Pepper Wings

Spam Musubi

Lumpia

Entrees

Loco Moco 

Korean Short Ribs

Location: 

151 W. Alder St., Stockton

Hours: 

Mon: 5 p.m. - 10 p.m.

Wed: 5 p.m. - 10 p.m.

Thu: 5 p.m. - 10 p.m.

Fri: 5 p.m. - close

Sat: 5 p.m. - close

Sun: 10 a.m. - 8 p.m.

Information: 

Call 209-992-0232, visit islanderslounge.com or follow on Instagram @stocktonislanders