Restaurant brings island fare, fun atmosphere to Cannon Beach

Published 5:00 pm Saturday, July 31, 2010

When Josh Tuckman made the decision to open a restaurant in Cannon Beach, he said he wanted to offer guests a menu that was different in an atmosphere that was both “romantic and fun.”

Welcome to Castaways Tini Tiki Hut, the new Caribbean-themed eatery Tuckman opened in early June, tucked into a quaint little building on the resort’s north end that formerly housed a Thai restaurant.

“There are some good restaurants in town, but I felt what was missing was a place that was affordable with a relaxed cuisine that wasn’t stuffy or pretentious,” Tuckman said.

For Tuckman, who attended Seaside High School before embarking on a 20-plus year career in the restaurant business, affordability doesn’t mean cutting corners in the kitchen. In fact, that’s where he wants Castaways to shine.

Tuckman said he uses only the highest quality fish, meat products, fresh vegetables and fruit.

While the dinner menu focuses predominantly on seafood dishes – with an emphasis on tropical fish such as Mahi-Mahi – it also offers such favorites as top sirloin, pork chops and macaroni and cheese.

As chef, Tuckman uses his expertise in a variety of cuisines, including Caribbean, Creole, French, Pan-Asian, Thai and Northwest fusion.

Like an artist, Tuckman sees each plate as a canvas. He uses fresh fruits to add color to the dish.

“The presentation should be colorful and fun,” he said. “You should leave (the guest) not knowing whether to eat it or to take a picture of it.”

Tuckman said he takes a lot of pride in his full-service bar, where he prepares all specialty drinks from scratch.

The bar is unique, with a tidal pool bar top, a three-dimensional pool that includes star fish, shells, rocks and other marine life sitting on a layer of black Hawaiian sand.

The restaurant seats 32 with six additional seats at the bar. During pleasant weather, an additional 30 outdoor seats are available.

Castaways is open seven days a week for dinner, with lunch offered Thursday through Monday. Tuckman also plans to offer a light menu from 10 p.m. to midnight Wednesday through Sunday.

Tuckman said he wants Castaways to become a destination for both local residents and visitors who are looking for good food and refreshments in a fun and relaxed setting.

Tuckman said Castaways is a “culmination” of everything he has learned about operating restaurants and bars during his career.

“This is a representation of me and I want people to have a great experience,” he said.

Castaways Tini Tiki Hut

Address: 316 Fir St., Cannon Beach

Hours: Thursday through Monday, 11:30 a.m. to 10 p.m.; Tuesday and Wednesday, 5 p.m. to 10 p.m. After hours (light fare, refreshments) Wednesday through Sunday, 10 p.m. to midnight.

Phone: (503) 436-8777