Cocktail bar
Unclaimed profileStrong Water Anaheim
Anaheim, CA · $$$
Inebrious
Beverage Program Score
The editorial take
Strong Water is a tiki temple where rum reigns and history gets a twist. The cocktail list spans classics like the Mai Tai to originals like the Zombie King, all anchored by the house Lost Voyage rum. With over 40 rums and a dedicated non-alcoholic lineup, it's a destination for both purists and the curious.
- What should I order?
- Start with the Navy Grog for a balanced, spice-forward rum showcase. The Zombie King is a bold, molasses-heavy spectacle worth the price, especially in its mug format. For a creamy, tropical treat, the Taro Colada impresses. Non-alcoholic drinkers should try the Tarobi Colada.
- Who will enjoy this place?
- Tiki enthusiasts and rum aficionados will find deep expertise and rare pours. Cocktail history buffs will appreciate documented classics. Groups seeking a theatrical, immersive night out will love the shipwreck decor and shareable bowls. Those wanting a quiet, wine-focused evening may find the limited wine list underwhelming.
- When should I go?
- Evenings are ideal to soak in the dim, immersive atmosphere. The menu changes seasonally, so checking for the latest summer offerings is worthwhile. Reservations are recommended due to popularity, as waits can be long without them.
- What should I expect to spend?
- Cocktails run $12–$23, with large-format bowls and mugs priced $65–$150. Rum pours are $13–$48. Wine bottles are $16–$26, and beers are $8–$12. Non-alcoholic cocktails are $12.
- What makes the beverage program distinctive?
- The house rum 'Lost Voyage', a collaboration with Hamilton Rum, anchors the program. Historic accuracy meets creative flair in cocktails like the Serpent's Grasp, named Best New Cocktail by Orange Coast Magazine. The immersive shipwreck theme and extensive rum library set it apart from typical cocktail bars.
Beverage categories
We only score what a venue sets out to do. Categories a venue doesn't attempt are left unscored rather than penalized.
Cocktails
A deep, historically informed tiki program with original creations. House rum 'Lost Voyage' features prominently.
Menu strengths
- — Deep tiki expertise with historically accurate recipes and original creations.
Standout selections
- — Navy Grog – rich, boozy, spiced with Lost Voyage rum, overproof white rum, allspice dram, citrus, demerara, honey.
- — Zombie King – bold, molassesy blend of rums, pimento dram, tropical juices, and bitters; served in a mug.
- — Taro Colada – creamy, tropical with coconut rum, spiced rum, pineapple, lime, coconut, taro cream, cane.
- — Mai Tai – citrusy, nutty, rich with demerara and Jamaican rums, dry curaçao, lime, orgeat.
Pricing: Cocktails $12-$23; large-format mugs/bowls $65-$150
Wine
A minimal but curated selection of three wines by the bottle, including a Chardonnay, a Pinot Noir, and a Cava. No by-the-glass options. Quality selections with ratings, but limited variety.
Menu strengths
- — Curated selection of quality wines with recognized ratings.
Standout selections
- — Schug Chardonnay – spiced apple, ripe pear, fresh fennel; 90 pts Wine Enthusiast.
- — King Estate Pinot Noir – ripe wild berries, dark cherry, baking spice; 91 pts James Suckling.
- — Freixenet Cordon Negro Brut – crisp, dry with peach, melon, candied citrus; 89 pts Wine Enthusiast.
Pricing: Wine $16-$26 per bottle (375ml or 187ml)
Beer
Three canned beers, including a yuzu rice lager, a Jamaican lager, and a hazy IPA. Prices are reasonable and selections complement the tropical theme.
Menu strengths
- — Beer selection complements tiki theme with tropical and refreshing options.
Standout selections
- — Hanamachi Yuzu – crisp Japanese rice lager brewed with yuzu.
- — Red Stripe Jamaican Lager – moderate body, low bitterness, subtle butterscotch hint.
- — Offshoot Relax Hazy IPA – juicy tangerine, mango, pineapple, minimal bitterness.
Pricing: Beer $8-$12 per can
Nonalcoholic
A dedicated set of non-alcoholic cocktails that mirror the tropical creativity of the main menu, including a taro colada, a pineapple-cinnamon refresher, and a strawberry punch.
Standout selections
- — Tarobi Colada – tropical, rich, creamy with pineapple, lime, coconut, taro cream, cane.
- — Anana Rising – juicy, bright with pineapple, lemon, cinnamon.
- — Strawberry Punch – fruity, tart punch with orange, pineapple, lime, cane, muddled strawberry.
Pricing: Non-alcoholic cocktails $12 each
Spirits
An extensive rum library with over 40 expressions from the Caribbean, Latin America, and beyond. Includes rare aged rums and the house 'Lost Voyage' collaboration with Hamilton Rum.
Menu strengths
- — Deep rum library with rare and aged expressions.
Standout selections
- — El Dorado 21 Year Rum – Guyana, wooden column still, 40% ABV.
- — Neisson Single Barrel 2014 Rum – Martinique, copper creole column still, 51% ABV.
- — Strong Water – Lost Voyage – Hamilton Rum – West Indies blend, 45% ABV.
- — Appleton Estate 12 Year – Jamaica, pot & column blend, 43% ABV.
Pricing: Rum pours $13-$48
How it sits with the food
While food is not the focus, the tiki drinks pair naturally with tropical, spicy, or grilled fare. The rich, sweet cocktails like the Painkiller complement smoked meats or jerk chicken, while the bitter Mai Tai can cut through rich, fried snacks. No food menu details are available.
Inebrious does not score kitchens, food or the restaurant overall. We review the beverage program only.
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