After an extensive four-year, $20 million-plus restoration and renovation, Fort Lauderdale’s iconic Mai-Kai restaurant has reopened bigger and better than ever. Whether you're a first-time visitor or a long-time fan of this Greater Fort Lauderdale institution, you’re in for a real treat next time you’re in town. Read along to discover more about this Polynesian hotspot, once dubbed the “most expensive restaurant construction project ever in the United States.”
The Backstory
Opened in 1956 by brothers Bob and Jack Thornton, this haunt became a beacon of South Pacific escapism, offering an immersive blend of tiki culture, tropical drinks, and live entertainment. It quickly garnered a reputation as a must-visit destination for South Floridians and tiki enthusiasts worldwide. Today, the Mai-Kai is featured on the National Register of Historic Places.
What’s Fresh and New?
First-timers and returning guests can expect the perfect blend of classic Mai-Kai charm and modern updates. The experience begins when you step out of your car, where a textured pathway—designed to resemble a sandy beach leading to lava-rock slabs—immerses you in the spirit of a tropical escape.
While the original design and vibe remain intact, the restaurant now features eight themed rooms, ranging from a nautical-themed bar to dining areas named after South Seas Islands—places like Hawaii and New Guinea. Each room reflects its respective island’s culture and individuality. Reserve a seat inside the Samoa and Tahiti rooms for a leisurely non-show experience. Guests can also dine in the tropical gardens on starry nights. A bar and lounge area, gift shop, and spaces to host special gatherings round out the modern updates.
A Taste of Paradise
Come for the entertainment, but stay for the food. The menu draws inspiration from Polynesia’s bold flavors underscored by tropical fruits and aromatic spices. Beloved dishes are still on the menu, like barbecue ribs, Peking duck, and the ultimate dish: the Pupu Platter, which features Shanghai chicken, crispy pork and snow crab egg rolls, classic cheese tangs, and Mai-Kai crab rangoon. Diners can also dig into new additions ranging from a Kona beer-glazed short rib to a Wagyu strip steak.
Save room for an Asian pear upside-down cake paired with Vietnamese coffee ice cream and rum caramel sauce. Or try the “Angry Tiki Tower,” where mochi, lychees, grapes, and macadamia ice cream sandwiches come together in a tasty tropical treat.
Don’t worry: You can still imbibe on plenty of rum-filled cocktails. Step into the iconic Molokai Bar, where chief mixologist Cory Starr orchestrates a tantalizing experience featuring an impressive lineup of 57 specialty cocktails, from timeless tiki classics to inventive modern twists. The bar boasts an exceptional rum collection, including rare and discontinued bottles that add an exclusive flair. Choose from over 50 cocktails served in custom-designed glasses that you can purchase as a souvenir.
Polynesian Culture & Entertainment
The Mai-Kai’s legendary Polynesian Revue holds the distinction of being the longest-running performance of its kind on the U.S. mainland.
Continuing its tradition of honoring and preserving rich Polynesian culture, the restaurant has partnered with cultural arts and entertainment director Teuruhei Buchin to present twice-nightly performances. These captivating shows celebrate Pacific Island traditions, weaving stories from various islands through vibrant music, dance, and traditional costumes, all culminating in dramatic fire performances.