The evolution of dinner-and-a-show has taken some strange turns in South Florida—these days, the “performance” is often just the table next to you dancing on chairs while bottle service rolls in. But Fort Lauderdale’s legendary Mai-Kai remains a dazzling exception, back in action after a much-needed revamp. The refreshed space stays true to its kitschy Polynesian roots—think torches, tiki cocktails, and tribal masks—with a few necessary upgrades. The new outdoor bar, fittingly named Bora Bora, is already a scene. By 4pm on a Saturday, every table and high-top was taken, and the bar was elbow-to-elbow.
Inside, it’s just as you remember—only better. The thatched roofing, ornate lanterns, and faux bamboo furnishings still transport you straight to the South Pacific (as far as this Miami girl is concerned, Broward already feels like an ocean away). The updates bring fresh finishes and flooring but keep the nostalgic charm intact.
The early-bird crowd was out in full force when I visited—grandmas in birthday crowns, couples toasting over mai tais, and servers in aloha shirts doling out pu pu platters, sizzling stir-fry, and mounds of fried rice. And, of course, Mai-Kai’s legendary Polynesian show, complete with hula and fire dancing, is the high-energy cap to every meal.
The vibe: Festive! Almost everyone is celebrating something—birthdays, anniversaries, or just making it through the week. But honestly, you don’t need an excuse to go.
The food: The chef takes some creative liberties with the Chinese/Asian menu, and it pays off—think spicy honey guava chicken and short rib over plantain mash.
The drinks: A deep dive into tiki cocktail territory—from classic rum punches to modern tequila-based twists that are (thankfully) less sweet.
Time Out tip: Timing is everything and your meal should revolve around the live show. Arrive early (like 3:45pm for the 5pm performance) to avoid rushed courses and actually admire the plating before the lights dim.
