Out of many come one, is a saying from Jamaica, according to Josh Tuckman, the chef and owner behind one of Cannon Beachs more interesting fusion restaurants, Castaways Restaurant and Tiki Bar. It also serves as a defining theme for the eclectic menu that fuses different international culinary traditions into dishes with names like, East Meets West, and Texas Egg Rolls.

The menu at Castaways was inspired in part by Tuckmans travels in the Caribbean as well as his diverse cooking background, which includes everything from French cuisine to pizza.  In addition, the menu draws from Cajun, Creole, and Polynesian cooking traditions.

Almost everything that is made in the tiny kitchen is made from scratch, by Tuckman himself.  This philosophy of utilizing quality ingredients to make even the most basic components for his food menu carries over to the bar as well.

The cocktails are gorgeous works of art, made primarily by Megan Miller, who is the Tiki catch-all, employee (in her own words) who manages the bar and floor.  Cocktails like the Blueberry Lavender Limeade shimmer in their glassware with gorgeous colors and wonderful, explosive tastes on the palate.  The Blueberry Lavender Syrup (made in house) adds a whole new dimension of flavor to the drink; and this is just one of dozens of drinks that features house infused liquors, fresh fruit and citrus.

The Tiki Bar also features house made grenadine, rosemary syrup, hibiscus flower syrup; just to name a few.

Tuckman has deep roots in Cannon Beach, that go back to childhood summers spent on the glorious beaches.  He is a graduate of Seaside High school, and in his own words, got out as quick as he could, after graduation.  Circumstances brought him back to Cannon Beach and he found that he wanted to bring something different to town, something fun that wasnt another version of the same old northwest cuisine that is ubiquitous on the coast.

Since a favorable review by the Mouth of the Columbia, which are notoriously hard earned according to Tuckman, his business has really been taking off.  Our spring numbers are higher than what we were experiencing in the middle of summer.

 In addition, Tuckman is internet savvy and very aware of his online reviews on sites like the Urban Spoon and Yelp, which are glowing.  Savvy travelers look at these sites when they come to the coast, and really, they can tell a lot about how a place runs.  If 80% of the reviews are negative, that can be a pretty good indicator that something is off, Tuckman explained.

On the Fourth of July, the Tiki Bar will be hosting an all ages, no cover, conscious hip hop show that will start at 10PM and feature Marv Ellis and DJ DV8.

Castaways promises to fill some unique niches on the north end of Cannon Beach this summer and beyond.  They will also feature a late night menu after 10pm every night of the week this summer, with 6-8 items and no attitude from a stressed out bartender (which can be the downside of late night eats in many bars). Also beginning in July, the Tiki Restaurant and Bar will  serve brunch on Saturday and Sunday starting at 9am and featuring a list of specialty Mimosas and Bloody Marys.

I am happy to be in Cannon Beach, bringing something different to town.  It is really important to me that everyone who walks in is welcomed, and that the service is sincere no matter whether someone is recognized as a local or not, Tuckman explained of his Tiki philosophy.  Also, we want it to be a nice place to hang out, bring a date and enjoy the ambience.