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Who says you need a tropical island to live your best beach life? Just ask Dana Fryer, whose backyard oasis, The Cabana, was named the grand champion in Pinter’s International Backyard Bar Awards! From suburban Oregon to a breezy paradise, Dana’s transformed his space over 20 years into an unforgettable retreat that would make Jimmy Buffett proud.
The Cabana isn’t just a bar – it’s a full-on vibe. Think vibrant island decor, playful beachy accents, and end-of-summer parties featuring live music, hula dancers, and Dana’s signature cocktails (Margaritas, Mai Tais, and a mystery flavor that keeps guests guessing). It’s a safe haven where friends and family can kick back, sip on something refreshing, and let the world melt away. Oh, and did we mention Dana is walking away with $10,000, an epic backyard swag bundle, and the opportunity to create his very own beer with Pinter? Yeah, that’s bragging rights for life!
Reflecting on his win, Dana shared: “It’s awesome! I’m excited, and it’s the ultimate bragging rights. The Cabana’s grown into something much bigger than I ever imagined – it’s a space where everyone is welcome to unwind and enjoy themselves. Oregon may not be tropical, but I’ve always loved the island feel, so I made my own version. It’s become more than just a bar; it’s a whole experience.”
Check out what some of Dana’s frequent guests had to say about The Cabana:
"You walk through the gate and you are transported to the tropics.”
“The Cabana is amazing! What Dana has done to create the “aloha” atmosphere is beyond what I’ve ever seen at any of the thousands of houses I’ve visited (I work in real estate). Beyond that, he uses the cabana to spread joy and happiness to everyone around him, asking nothing in return.”
“It’s amazing. Has a tide pool, cave, treasure chest, skeleton, and a great cabana for drinks. This is this guys life. He put his heart and soul into it.”
“This is THE most awesome backyard set up you will ever see. It often includes live music including the cabana owner himself.”
From the moment you enter this magic realm it takes you to the islands, a sandpit with a fire in the middle a cabana where beverages are served at the highest level the friendship and the music put it all together"
But Dana wasn’t the only one who impressed the judges. The Plastered Pelican in Richmond, Virginia, and Bucko’s Bar in Stockport, UK, both took home runner-up trophies. The Plastered Pelican started as a university hangout and has grown into a beloved community hub, complete with handmade touches, beachy décor, and quirky mascots.
Meanwhile, Bucko’s Bar was a heartfelt tribute to family memories, featuring over 300 beer mats and seating straight from an old Irish club – a surprise for the owner’s father that left everyone speechless.
This year’s competition saw entries from all over the US and UK, each backyard bar with its own unique story to tell. While The Cabana took the top prize, all finalists received Pinter bundles, with the runners-up getting Pinter machines, Ooni Pizza Ovens, and trophies to up their backyard game even more.
As our very own co-founder and CEO Ralph Broadbent said: “The creativity and sense of community these backyard bars bring is truly inspiring. Each space is a reflection of the owners’ passion, craftsmanship, and love for bringing people together. We’re thrilled to have Dana on board to brew his very own beer with Pinter – who better to keep the party going!”
These backyard bars prove you don’t need to go far for an unforgettable escape. Cheers to the winners, and here’s to many more great drinks, good times, and backyard adventures!