Mai Kai is a Florida institution. http://maikai.com/ Located in Ft Lauderdale, Mai Kai has been welcoming locals and tourist alike since 1956. Their South Pacific cuisine and their nightly Polynesian dinner show takes their guests on a journey through many pacific islands. Their tiki hut inspired decor and lanscaping is sight to behold. Outside you will find waterfalls and a trail lined with totem poles and tiki idols. Their expansive lanai just adds to the authenticity.

I was there with the hubby and our 3 yr old so I was delighted to see they had a kid’s menu. Our princess opted for the mac and cheese {of course}. It came with a beverage and dessert. Her Pineapple punch was so good, I decided on one for myself ! I comes in a real pineapple with a straw. She LOVED it ! We had a delicious classic polynesian dish called the PuPu Platter. It’s a sampler platter of Shanghai Chicken, Egg Roll, Crab Rangoon and Tahitian Cheese Tangs. I had the baby back ribs which were mouth watering. Hubby ordered the wood-grilled salmon which was served with red pepper chervil butter. Yum.

As we finished up dinner,the 7pm show started. Lots of drums and dancers dressed in authentic garb. The hostess took us on a journey to different areas in the Pacific and introduced each new set of dancers. WE LOVED IT ! Good customer service and the live entertainment is what has kept this place going for almost 60 years. It’s was a great night out for the entire family. My 3 yr old simply loved this place and the show also featured children. Next time you want to take the family to the South Pacific, save yourself a few thousand dollars and just make your way to Ft Lauderdale. You can tell me “Mahalo” after you visit !

‘Lovely’ Leslie Heigh ~ Freelance Photojournalist ~ Bon Vivant Blogger ~ Follow @IJust_LoveThis