As November approaches, fans can look forward to returning to the Mai-Kai's sprawling 26,000-square-foot space that's been completely restored and renovated while much of the original charm remains intact. The team has ensured it remains a cultural treasure in South Florida and a rare glimpse into the grandeur of mid-century Polynesian supper clubs.
The $20 million improvement of the property designed by Kravitz Design protects the original old charm of Mai-Kai while modernizing the experience. Those concerned about the changes need not fret. "Each guest that walks through the door will feel the energy that Bob and Jack Thornton originally created," says Bill Fuller, managing partner of Mai-Kai.
Although reservations are currently unavailable, the Mai-Kai team is currently encouraging longtime fans and patrons to sign up for updates on its website (where reservation slots will be opening soon).
In the meantime, as fans patiently wait to burst through the newly renovated doors, New Times has your exclusive sneak peek into exactly what you can expect at the updated attraction. New cocktails? Molokai outfits? Dishes? Performances?
Below, keep on reading to find out what's new and what's coming to Mai-Kai 2.0. Mahalo!
Every hanging light in the venue (more than 250 of them) has been restored and rewired with LED bulbs as part of the remodeling.
Mai-Kai photo
1. A Nautical-Themed Bar in a Nautical-Themed Room
One of the eight themed rooms will be nautical-themed and have a nautical-themed bar. This bar and lounge will have a 150-person capacity. The restaurant's interior design was brought to life with the expertise of Tom "Typhoon Tommy" Allsmiller and a talented team of artisans, all of whom have extensive backgrounds in thematic park design at Disney and Universal properties.2. New Themed Dining Areas Named After South Seas Islands
A few of the eight themed rooms will be dining areas named after South Seas islands. Each dining area is named after a different part of Polynesia — Samoa, Lanai, Tahiti, Tonga, Hawaii, New Guinea, and Moorea. Each room is designed to reflect the culture of each island group and features individual artifacts from each location. The Samoa and Tahiti rooms overlook the waterfalls for a leisurely non-show experience, and on starry nights, guests are invited to dine in the tropical gardens. The new 26,000-square-foot space will have seating for 489 patrons both inside and in the tropical gardens.3. New Floor Show Directed and Choreographed by Mai-Kai Partner and Matriarch Tahitian
A new floor show, directed and choreographed by Mai-Kai partner and matriarch Tahitian Mireille Thornton, will debut every January. The revue reflects the music and culture of each island by interpreting ancient stories through song and dance. "This restaurant has been my life's passion and a reflection of the vibrant Polynesian culture that was brought to life here over 50 years ago," says Thornton. "To see the restaurant reopen and look exactly how it did when I was a dancer myself is such a beautiful feeling. The new shows blend artistry and heritage in the most entertaining fashion, and I'm now able to see my grandson take the same stage I once did. This truly is a full-circle moment. I'm grateful to see this legacy continue."4. New Chief Mixologist at the Molokai Bar
Chief mixologist Cory Starr (formerly of Three Dots and a Dash in Chicago) will lead the bar program centered around the experience at the legendary Molokai Bar. Designed as a turn-of-the-century seaport saloon, the Molokai bar features 57 specialty drinks, a full-service bar, and a wine list. The menu, which mixes classic tiki drinks from the original menu with modern interpretations, will feature more than 50 cocktails in custom-designed vessels, which will be for sale. The bar's rum collection boasts rare selections, including a number of bottles no longer in production.5. New Technology During the Two Nightly Polynesian Shows
The twice-nightly, 45-minute performances will incorporate state-of-the-art technology with DMX-controlled lighting, allowing customized spotlights for each table. The show will use authentic music, dance, original costumes, and artifacts so guests can get a glimpse into traditional Polynesian heritage.6. New Dancers During the Twice Nightly Performances
The Mai-Kai team traveled worldwide to draw in exceptional talent, according to the team, some of whom hold deep familial ties to the restaurant. Members of the troupe represent many islands in the South Pacific, including Hawaii, Tahiti, Samoa, New Zealand, and the Philippines.7. Newly Renovated Meeting/Banquet Facilities
So many longtime patrons have fond memories of getting married at the Mai-Kai. Now, get ready to host your next big event once again! The attraction is ready to host big events once more.8. Renovated and Updated Tropical Garden
The waterfalls in the garden have been restored to their glorious wonder, perfect for dining in the "chilly" South Florida months.9. New Sandy Beach and Rock Slab at the Entrance
In the updated Mai-Kai, as guests exit their cars, "they will feel as if they are stepping onto an island shore, a sandy beach, and then a lava-rock slab," thanks to the stamped and etched concrete design elements used by Perry-Becker Design.The Mai-Kai Restaurant and Polynesian Show. 3599 N. Federal Hwy., Fort Lauderdale; 954-563-3272; maikai.com.
