Vintage Framed Matchbook Cover Villa Lanai San Mateo California Wall Art Decor Tiki

This is a beautifully preserved vintage matchbook cover from two legendary mid-century dining establishments in San Mateo, California: The Lanai and Villa Chartier.

The History Behind the Matchbook

• The Lanai: Opened around 1950 along El Camino Real, The Lanai was a staple of mid-century American tiki culture craze. It was famous among locals and traveling celebrities for its extravagant tropical atmosphere, featuring a massive fish tank, a shifting 3D South Sea island mural that simulated day and night, and iconic rum-based tropical drinks like the "Sidewinder Fang".
• Villa Chartier: Operating right next door to The Lanai, this classic restaurant opened its doors in 1925. It specialized in high-end Continental cuisine and was renowned for its prime rib and live Maine lobsters.
Both restaurants were operated in tandem near the historic Villa Hotel (collectively known as "Villa Square"). They closed their doors in the late 1980s, making original ephemera like this matchbook a highly sought-after piece of California nostalgia for tiki and mid-century collectors.

This framed matchbook cover from Villa Lanai, San Mateo, California, captures a nostalgic piece of mid-century history. Perfect for collectors or vintage decor.

• Solid wood frame with glass, made in the USA
• Matchbook cover features gold and teal accents
• Frame dimensions: approx. 5x7inches
• Ready to hang or display upright
• Unique collectible item