Living 2 Eat |

About 25 years ago, my family and I were in Fort Lauderdale and we dined at the Mai Kai.  I can remember the tiki torches, outriggers, tropical gardens, waterfalls and Polynesian dancers.  As young kid from Immokalee, this place was really cool!

Fast forward 25 years and I am back there again… and not one thing had changed!   The restaurant still exuded a pseudo Polynesian experience replete with dancers, pupu platters, and flaming batons.  My family and I loved every minute as it brought back a flood of memories.   

Although I do not remember everything we ate, I do remember the visit was more about the experience rather than the food.   Every visit of mine since has equated about the same.   The food is standard and American-ized to please our stereotypical thoughts of French Polynesia… sweet & sour, pineapple, coconut, and little umbrellas for garnish!

For a fun time and memorable experience, go and have a great time.  The attire is dressy casual (slacks and a Tommy Bahama was my attire) and will include a rather expensive meal that is not gourmet, but the surroundings (albeit a bit tacky at times) are exciting, nostalgic and represents a once grand Fort Lauderdale experience.