Updated Dec. 3
It’s hard to imagine more interest in a restaurant reopening than the hoopla surrounding the return of the historic Mai-Kai after its $20 million rejuvenation in November 2024. More than three years in the making, the restoration and reimagination not only returned the 67-year-old Polynesian palace to its vintage 1970s-era look, it also created an entirely new experience outside and around the grounds. Just as important, it created a solid infrastructure that will ensure its survival for generations to come.
More Atomic Grog coverage
• Latest news and exclusive coverage of the Mai-Kai reopening
• Mai-Kai Restoration & Reopening: Full story and photo archive
The following FAQ was created for the Friends of the Mai-Kai group on Facebook, which includes more than 21,000 members and continues to grow. Due to the overwhelming response, we wanted to provide the most official information we can find, along with our own tips and advice.
If you’re looking for more extensive coverage, including photos and video, just check the AtomicGrog.com homepage and our page dedicated to the Mai-Kai restoration and reopening. There you’ll find news and info going all the way back to the temporary closing in late 2020, along with lots of features in the works.
This page will be updated in tandem with Facebook, containing the latest helpful info for anyone planning a visit to the Mai-Kai. Feel free to follow either, or both. As always, go to MaiKai.com for the most official info and sign up for the email list to receive the latest news. If you have any other questions, join us in the Facebook group or post a question in the comments below.
Official sites and social media
• MaiKai.com | Facebook page | Instagram
Facebook group: Friends of the Mai-Kai
WHAT IS THE MAI-KAI? WHERE IS IT?
A highly immersive Polynesian-themed restaurant, dinner show and tropical bar that reopened in November 2024 following a four-year closing, refurbishment and reimagination estimated to cost more than $20 million. Located in Oakland Park, adjacent to Fort Lauderdale, in Broward County on Florida’s southeast coast. Established in 1956, the Mai-Kai is both a local and national historic landmark. The address is 3599 N. Federal Highway on the west side between Commercial and Oakland Park boulevards. [Google map]
• For more on the history, check out this page at MaiKai.com.
• Go to MaiKaiHistory.com for deep dives and order the book Mai-Kai: History and Mystery of the Iconic Tiki Restaurant by Tim “Swanky” Glazner.
• The Atomic Grog features detailed information on the historic cocktails.
IS THE MAI-KAI FULLY OPEN?
Yes! Following a 10-day special preview opening, the restaurant is open seven days a week from 4 p.m. Monday-Friday and 3 p.m. weekends as of Tuesday, Nov. 26.
HOW DO I GET OFFICIAL UPDATES?
Sign up for the email list at MaiKai.com and follow the official social media pages on Facebook and Instagram.
DO I NEED RESERVATIONS?
You can reserve seats for the nightly dinner show (up to 45 days in advance) via the SevenRooms booking engine at MaiKai.com. The new reservation system allows you to choose your exact seats in five themed dining areas (New Guinea, Tonga, Hawaii, Moorea and the Garden). Each room is designed to reflect the culture of each island group and features artifacts from each location. Reservations open up occasionally so please make sure to check back! If your party is larger than can be seated at one table, we suggest you book adjoining or adjacent tables. Large groups and special event parties can contact the Mai-Kai to make arrangements via the form on the website.
Walk-ups may be accommodated, space permitting. Inquire at the front desk upon arrival.
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