The Legendary Mai-Kai Restaurant & Polynesian Show is Back!

A South Florida icon has returned: The Mai-Kai Restaurant & Polynesian Show has officially reopened its doors after years of closure and extensive restoration.

A Legendary Past

Since its grand opening on December 28, 1956, the Mai-Kai has captivated guests with a mix of Polynesian culture, exotic cocktails, and world-class entertainment.

At the time, its striking A-frame building was the most expensive restaurant in the nation, costing $350,000 to build.

In 2014, its cultural and architectural significance earned it a place on the National Register of Historic Places.

The restaurant gained fame for its themed dining rooms, each representing a different Polynesian island, and for hosting the longest-running Polynesian show in the United States, even surpassing those in Hawaii.

The Setback

In 2020, disaster struck. A torrential rainstorm, combined with a malfunctioning sprinkler system, caused the roof to collapse.

Coupled with the COVID-19 shutdowns, the Mai-Kai was forced to close its doors indefinitely.

The original Thornton family, who lovingly operated the Mai-Kai for decades, sought investors to save this cultural treasure.

Thankfully, preservation-minded partners stepped in to fund the multi-million-dollar renovation. It needed to respect Mai-Kai’s history while bringing it up to modern standards.

The Rebirth

Now, after years of anticipation, the Mai-Kai has triumphantly reopened.

Guests can once again enjoy:

• Restored historic details include tiki carvings and lush gardens that transport visitors back to the golden age of mid-century Polynesian pop culture.
• The Polynesian Islander Revue is a legendary live show filled with music, fire dancing, and storytelling.
• Exotic tropical cocktails are crafted with authentic flair, including the iconic Black Magic and Barrel O’ Rum.
• Classic Polynesian-inspired cuisine is served in the restaurant’s eight unique dining rooms.

Authentic Florida Insider Tips

Reservations:

• The Mai-Kai is extremely popular since reopening, so book your table well in advance, especially if you plan to attend the Polynesian Islander Revue.
• Prime weekend shows sell out quickly. Reservations can be made online or by phone.

Best Drinks:

• The Mai-Kai’s cocktail menu is legendary. Don’t miss the Black Magic, a dark rum creation with a cult following, or the Barrel O’ Rum, a potent classic served in a mini-barrel. If you want something lighter, the Mai Tai is always a safe and refreshing choice.

Favorite Foods:

• We can not say enough how much we enjoyed the Pu Pu Platter, a sampler of Polynesian favorites.
• The Lobster Bora Bora, and the tender Steak Teriyaki are great choices.
• For dessert, the flaming Banana Daiquiri Pie is both theatrical and delicious.

Don’t Miss:

• Arrive early to stroll through the lush tiki gardens lit with torches.
• Spend some time in the Molokai Bar, a vintage nautical-themed lounge that feels like stepping into a 1960s movie set.
• A big highlight is the fire-knife dance finale in the Polynesian Islander Revue, an unforgettable crowd favorite.

Costs:

• Show & Dinner packages typically range from $60–$80 per person, depending on selections.
• Specialty cocktails are usually $15–$20 each.
• While not inexpensive, the experience is immersive and one-of-a-kind. It’s a true bucket-list night out in South Florida.

Nearby Things to Do

Make the most of your visit by exploring nearby attractions before or after your Mai-Kai evening:

• Lauderdale-by-the-Sea (10 minutes away): A charming beach town with a walkable pier, seaside dining, and boutique shops. Perfect for an afternoon stroll before dinner.
• Las Olas Boulevard (15 minutes away): Fort Lauderdale’s iconic shopping and dining street, lined with galleries, cafes, and nightlife.
• Tiki Bar Hopping: Continue the Polynesian vibe by visiting nearby tiki-inspired bars such as Kapu Tiki Lounge or Tiki Tiki Bar & Grill for after-dinner drinks.
• Water Taxi Cruise: Fort Lauderdale is the “Venice of America.” Hop on the Water Taxi for sightseeing along the Intracoastal Waterway.
• Hugh Taylor Birch State Park (15 minutes away): A hidden oasis of trails, picnic areas, and kayaking along the Intracoastal—great for a daytime outing before your Mai-Kai evening.

Whether you’re a long-time fan or experiencing it for the first time, the Mai-Kai is once again a must-do South Florida destination.

Mai-Kai Restaurant & Polynesian Show Address: 3599 N. Federal Hwy., Ft. Lauderdale, FL 33308

Stay up to date on shows, events, and reservations by following the Mai-Kai Restaurant & Polynesian Show Facebook page.

For a peek at the history and magic of the Mai-Kai, check out this video.

Looking for other things to do in South Florida? Check out:

• A Guide to Florida Tiki Culture – 2025 Edition
• Things to Do in Ft. Lauderdale Most Spring Breakers Miss
• 12+ Best Things to Do in Delray Beach, FL
• Best Things to Do in Hollywood, FL
• 8 Adventures in Awesome, Authentic Miami
• Top Things to Do in Coconut Grove / Miami

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