The Mai-Kai, Fort Lauderdale’s fabulous midcentury tiki-themed dinner theater, was the victim of a massive roof collapse in late 2020, putting it in danger of total demolition. However, being saved by a new restaurateur bringing the old girl’s glamour back with an elaborate $15 million renovation, the restaurant is on track for a summer re-opening, with a phase II following afterward.
According to the Atomic Grog, a slightly obsessive tiki-lovers blog that goes into lots of detail with its many updates on the property, they are even resurrecting a vintage kind of rum originally used in old-school tiki cocktails back in the glory days. The restoration is very visible at the site itself, including lots of outdoor work, a brand-new sign, and what looks like a complete reconstruction around the back of the property. Check out photos, and an interesting interior video from Instagram, below.
Let us know when you will be opening and we will get together DHT members to come celebrate.
Dolly MacIntyre