Summer can be traditionally slow for the tourism and hospitality industries in South Florida, but not at the Mai-Kai. The historic Polynesian restaurant kicked off the season in early June with The Hukilau, the annual Tiki weekender that attracts hundreds of guests from around the world. This was followed by a constant stream of special events that continues in July with some unique offerings.
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Breaking news: Mai-Kai owner takes over historic Jungle Queen riverboat
Event previews: July spotlights Tahitian culture, vendor marketplace
News also recently broke regarding new ownership of another Fort Lauderdale landmark. Fans of classic attractions and dining experiences will be thrilled to know that the venerable Jungle Queen is now under the control of Bill Fuller, the Miami historic preservationist who is also the managing partner of the Mai-Kai. Look for full coverage below.
Also below, you’ll find a rundown on the special Tahiti Fête cultural activities coming to the Polynesian palace this month, including craft and dance classes, special shows, and more. We’ll then share photos, video and first-person accounts of some of the unique events in June, starting with The Hukilau.
More below: Special event photos, video
• Heritage: A Polynesian Legacy, the Mai-Kai’s updated dinner show
• Tiki weekender honors a legend, welcomes Charles Phoenix | More events and news
The East Coast’s longest running gathering of Polynesian Pop enthusiasts, which ran from five days starting June 3, included Mai-Kai parties and special presentations on three of those. This included the debut of a revamped dinner show on June 5 and the exclusive Florida appearance of retro culture humorist and historian Charles Phoenix on June 7.
Look for full coverage of all The Hukilau festivities at the Mai-Kai below, including reviews of the exclusive food and beverages that were served all weekend. We’ll take this opportunity to share a new tribute recipe for one of the classic drinks in advance of the upcoming relaunch of our Mai-Kai Cocktail Guide.
Food and drink reviews and recipe below
• Our take on reimagined classics | Tribute to Demerara Float
Check out our related story for lots of photos and video from the Beachcomber Resort and Mai-Kai shared from social media. We also plan another recap that covers the happenings at the hotel.
More Mai-Kai news is brewing, so stay tuned for some exciting updates.
Breaking news: Mai-Kai owner takes over historic Jungle Queen riverboat
In a major win for historic preservation, Fort Lauderdale’s longest running tourist attraction is now controlled by the same owner who brought the Mai-Kai back to life in 2024 after injecting more than $20 million into the restaurant’s restoration. Miami’s Community News broke the story June 26 that the Jungle Queen had changed hands for only the second time since it’s 1935 debut in an announcement written the riverboat’s longtime owner, Mike Faber.
Founded by Captain Al Starts, the attraction – which later expanded to include a barbecue dinner cruise and show – offers a unique view of the “Venice of America” via its scenic inland waterways. In 1958, it was purchased by Earl Faber, whose son Jerome and grandson Mike expanded and enhanced the operations to include an excursion to an exotic island that includes an authentic Polynesian show in addition to a longstanding tradition of celebrating the local Seminole community.
This nostalgic piece of local and state history now has its third owner, a man known for reviving and re-energizing venerable venues. Before spearheading the Mai-Kai sale and reimagination, Fuller was part of the ownership team that in 2014 resurrected Ball & Chain in Little Havana, an iconic nightclub originally established in the 1930s and recently recognized as one of the best bars in America by Esquire magazine.
Fuller and partner Martin Pinilla established Barlington Group in 2004 as a real estate investment and development company dedicated, in part, to the preservation and restoration of historic properties. Fuller and Pinilla are tenacious and steadfast in their ideals, making headlines for their hard-fought legal battle with former Miami City Commissioner Joe Carollo. The pair won a $63.5 million verdict from a federal jury, which found Carollo liable for violating their First Amendment rights.
Happily, no such drama exists in Fort Lauderdale, where the iconic Jungle Queen has become part of the fabric of the city. The current Jungle Queen IV, commissioned in 1971, is a massive 385-passenger vessel that has long been a highlight of the city’s Winterfest Boat Parade as “Santa’s Showboat,” carrying Saint Nick along the New River. It’s reportedly designed to look like a cross between a classic riverboat and Humphrey Bogart’s African Queen. A second boat, the 120-seat River Queen, offers special charters and private experiences.
The focus of Fuller and his properties was highlighted by Faber in his story: “Jungle Queen, Ball & Chain, and the Mai-Kai are each rooted in history, storytelling, atmosphere, and immersive hospitality. They are not simply places people visit. They are places where generations gather, celebrate, and create memories.”
In an interview with The Real Deal for a story posted June 29, Fuller said he plans to upgrade and enhance the Jungle Queen and Tropical Isle while continuing to honor the attraction’s history. He said businesses like the Jungle Queen are “absolutely irreplaceable” and play a distinct role in South Florida’s growing modern high-rise and mid-rise environment.
“I’m really, really excited about its future,” Fuller said of the Jungle Queen. “The more it ages, the finer the wine. The older it gets, the more beauty it has.” Fuller didn’t disclose the purchase price, but he told the real estate magazine and website that the deal exceeded $5 million for both boats and the island.
The attraction’s embarkation point and box office is at the Bahia Mar Yachting Center, adjacent to the Bahia Mar hotel and Marina Village waterfront food hall. The complex is on the west side of Seabreeze Boulevard, just across from Fort Lauderdale’s famous beach and near the oceanfront B Ocean Resort (formerly the historic Yankee Clipper). Both hotels served as hosts for The Hukilau event over the years, and a cruise on the Jungle Queen was included in the 2014 event.
The current schedule includes daily sightseeing tours and a cruise along the New River to Tropical Isle five days a week. On the island, guests enjoy a barbecue dinner and signature cocktails, a live show and access to wildlife. “Ignite the Night!” features Polynesian hula and fire dancers, fire-eaters, drummers, and more. The shows are organized by the longtime entertainment troupe Drums of Polynesia.
“There needs to be more of an effort to protect wholesale historic areas and the communities that still have these historic assets because I believe that even now and in the future, they will become gems in their own right and will become economic stimulants to even the new modern development that will build around them,” Fuller told The Real Deal.
While Fuller has ambitious plans for the Jungle Queen, we’re told that none of them involves merging any of the operations with the nearby Mai-Kai, which is overseen by another of Fuller’s companies, Mad Room Hospitality. They will remain separate entities with completely different staff, according to an inside source.
• Follow the Jungle Queen: Official website | Instagram
Event previews: July features Tahitian culture events, vendor marketplace
The Mai-Kai has always had a strong bond with Tahiti and its culture, going all the way back to its early days. The restaurant’s first Polynesian show featured five Tahitian dancers known as Tamari Tahiti, or “The Kids From Tahiti.” It premiered on Jan. 5, 1962, on the restaurant’s new dedicated showroom stage.
According to a story that appeared in the Fort Lauderdale News that day, it was “the first time a totally Tahitian show has been presented stateside.” The group included dancer Mireille and musician Toti, who went on to be iconic figures in Mai-Kai history.
Toti Terorotua (1935-2020) was already an established recording artist in the islands with his Lure of Tahiti album (1958). He became the band leader and longtime member of the Polynesian Islander Revue for more than four decades.
Mireille went on to direct and choreograph what became the oldest continually-running authentic South Seas stage show in the United States (including Hawaii). She married co-founder Bob Thornton in 1974, leading the family ownership when he passed away in 1989 through the 2021 sale to Bill Fuller and his group. “Mrs. T” and her extended family remain involved, including performers and longtime manager Kern Mattei. “Heritage,” the updated dinner show, is a tribute to her influence. [See below] “The Kids From Tahiti” tradition continues with many young second and third-generation performers.
For the first time, the Mai-Kai is dedicating an entire month to celebrating the spirit of French Polynesia in honor of Tahiti Fête, the nation’s largest Tahitian dance competition held every July. The Mai-Kai calendar includes free classes, special guest performances, and a new Tahiti Fête show every Friday and Saturday starting July 10.
You’ll want to come back multiple times to enjoy the various activities. Reservations are required to see the nightly dinner shows, but many other activities are free and accessible to walk-ups in the outdoor Bora Bora Bar.
• Wednesdays: Free Tahitian dance classes – Wednesdays (7-8 p.m.) and Fridays (8:15-9 p.m.) in the Bora Bora Bar. Those who attend classes throughout the month will be invited to perform on stage during a special pre-show presentation on Sunday, July 26, at 7:30 p.m. (reservations needed). A video was shared on Instagram highlighting the first dance class on July 1:
• Fridays and Saturdays: Tahiti Fête Show – Starting July 10, a new dinner show featuring expanded Tahitian dance performances every Friday and Saturday. Reserve a seat now before shows sell out. Seatings: Fridays at 5 and 8 p.m., Saturdays at 2, 5 and 8 p.m.
• Weekends: Crafts and demonstrations – Cowrie shell jewelry classes on Saturdays at 1 p.m. and cultural activities (coconut husking, sarong tying, lei making) on Sundays at 12:30 p.m. in the Bora Bora Bar.
• July 11, 18, 19: Special guest performances by local Polynesian dance groups – Lanisina Polynesian Dance Academy on July 11 (1:45 p.m.) and July 19 (6:45 p.m.), and Na’i Tahiti on July 18 (7:45 p.m.). Presentations in the Bora Bora Bar, followed by performances on the main stage prior to the regular dinner show. Guests with dinner reservations can see both.
• Sunday, July 26: Vendor market – Polynesian-inspired merchandise, artwork, jewelry, apparel, and specialty items available from six booths in the Bora Bora Bar from noon to 6 p.m.
In addition to the special Tahitian culture activities, the Mai-Kai will host its usual eclectic assortment of live music in the Molokai Bar and other select evenings in Bora Bora. The Molokai is ramping up its entertainment with a three-day weekend July 10-12. Veteran South Florida rockabilly artist Slip Mahoney (of Slip and the Spinouts) performs solo on July 10, followed by a special jazz jam featuring Ginetta’s Vendetta on July 11, and the jazzy Latin sounds of Jackie Colada on July 12.
Guests coming in July can also enjoy all the regular weekly specials that launched in 2026, including In the Biz Mondays, Tiki Tuesdays, Wahine Wednesdays, and karaoke on select Thursdays in the Molokai. For updates on all events, follow the Mai-Kai on the official Instagram and Facebook pages, plus the Friends of the Mai-Kai group.
Heritage: A Polynesian Legacy, the Mai-Kai’s updated dinner show
The stage was set for the Tahiti Fête events on June 5, when the nightly Polynesian Islander Revue was updated for the first time since the November 2024 reopening. Heritage: A Polynesian Legacy pays tribute to the Mai-Kai’s long history and deep ties to the islands.
The 45-minute performance follows the same traditional story arc with numbers saluting the culture, dance and music of the South Pacific islands – most notably Tahiti, Hawaii, Samoa and New Zealand. Many fan favorites remain, including the audience participation segment and the flamboyant Samoan fire-knife dance.
Some new numbers were added and other updated to honor performances from the past, most notably those curated by longtime show producer and choreographer Mireille Thornton. The show’s closing dance is a specific tribute to one of her favorites. The matriarch of the founding family is now retired, but one of her underlings, Lono Hanohano, now serving as the restaurant’s Polynesian cultural director.
In addition to Hanohano, the troupe – which features dancers (Mai-Kai Islanders) and musicians (Mai-Kai Serenaders) – includes several with ties to the past. Some young members are following in the footsteps of their parents and grandparents. This tight bond was on display in December, when many Polynesian Islander Revue alumni returned for a special reunion during the 69th anniversary events that included special on-stage performances. [See photos, video]
Hanohano joined his team onstage in the first July 5 show, playing the male lead in the Hawaiian Wedding Dance. [See video] You can check out a clip of that performance below, along with more video we shot from our seat on the showroom floor. Scroll down for more photos and coverage of the Hukilau main event.
Heritage: A Polynesian Legacy
The show is performed up to three times nightly. Reservations are required for seats in one of five themed dining areas. Check our FAQ for more details on the showroom and the Mai-Kai. The current schedule:
• Monday through Friday: 5 p.m. seating with the show at 6:30, and 8 p.m. seating with the show at 9:30.
• Saturday: 2 p.m. seating with the show at 3:30, 5 p.m. seating with the show at 6:30, and 8 p.m. seating with the show at 9:30.
• Sunday: 1 p.m. seating with the show at 2:30, 4 p.m. seating with the show at 5:30, 7 p.m. seating with the show at 8:30.
Event recap: The Hukilau honors a legend, welcomes Charles Phoenix
Since the Mai-Kai’s reopening in November 2024, the restaurant has returned to being an integral part of The Hukilau, the Tiki weekender that has called South Florida home since 2003. This year was the 19th time hundreds of villagers, as attendees are known, made the pilgrimage to enjoy all the scheduled events throughout the long weekend June 3-7.
Last year’s event featured the unveiling of two new Tiki carvings as well live music and as special events featuring guest bartenders. This year promised many of the same activities, plus a special treat. The Hukilau lined up a special speaker, retro pop culture evangelist Charles Phoenix, to wrap up the event with a Sunday presentation on the main stage.
Following are recaps of the three days of organized events at the Mai-Kai. Many villagers visited on other days throughout the week, and you can find a compilation of social media photos and video on our previous story. For more info and details reviews of the food and drinks, check out the next section below.
WEDNESDAY: Mutiny at the Molokai Party, Poop Deck Takeover, and Calm Before the Storm Bartender’s Dinner
Early arrivals for happy hour filled both bars and were treated to live music and exclusive cocktails in the Molokai. Guitarist Skinny Jimmy Stingray from nearby Deerfield Beach led his three-piece band through several rousing sets of classic instrumental surf tunes and choice originals.
If you cross the small bridge over a water feature into the back area of the bar, you’ll find the “poop deck,” where two guest bar teams were serving up a special menu of cocktails. Jacksonville’s Luau Lads and central Florida’s Permanent Vacation took turns behind the rarely used bartop presenting two signature drinks each using sponsor spirits.
Meanwhile, dozens of bartenders and special guests gathered in the secluded Tahiti Room for the traditional dinner party thrown by The Hukilau and one of its sponsors to reward the 20 guest bars for their participation in the event. It’s dubbed the “Calm Before the Storm” party in deference to the task that awaits the bar professions over the next four days at the Beachcomber Resort serving the hundreds of thirsty villagers.
• See the full list of visiting bar and bartenders
Of those 20 bar teams, 11 were first-timers at The Hukilau and many of those in attendance June 3 were also newbies at the Mai-Kai. It was cool to see the wide eyes and excitement of the newcomers as we enjoyed the five-course tasting menu of small bites and full-sized cocktails curated by chef Justin Sherrer and beverage director Cory Starr.
In addition to the bartenders, it was great to see The Hukilau’s special guest presenter, Charles Phoenix, arrive early to fully enjoy the wonders of the Mai-Kai. It had been 16 years since his last visit to the Tiki temple during The Hukilau in 2008. During the two-hour service, which was flawlessly executed by the Mai-Kai staff, we were serenaded by performers from the Polynesian Islander Revue, who sang an impromptu song. (see video).
The dinner was sponsored by Tanduay Rum, and the world’s top-selling brand rewarded all attendees with a goodie bag, photo ops and spirits that we tasted throughout the evening. Tanduay’s state manger, Nelson Vindell, greeted guests and became a fixture at The Hukilau all weekend with tastings of expressions both new and classic.
FRIDAY: New dinner shows featuring Tiki Diablo tribute and Taiko drummers, live bands, plus more
The centerpiece of The Hukilau is always the evening set aside for the dinner shows and live music at the Mai-Kai, held for the past two years on Friday. This year was even more special since it promised the debut of an updated version of the Polynesian Islander Revue. Scroll up to see photos and video of Heritage: A Polynesian Legacy, which took place before the first seating.
Prior to the show, villagers seated in the five dining areas surrounding the stage saw a photo slideshow tribute to the late Danny Gallardo, aka Tiki Diablo. Guests seated for the second show of the evening also got a unique experience with the Samkoma drum troupe performing before the Polynesian dancers took the stage.
Throughout the evening, live music was featured in the Molokai Bar and a special menu of food and cocktails was offered in all of the dining rooms and bars. Our preview story included a full preview of the special dishes and vintage drinks on the unique menu, which was designed as a coloring book and also included word games, puzzles and more. Each interactive menu came with its own pencil and set of crayons.
When we arrived, South Florida rockabilly veterans Slip and the Spinouts were playing an early set in the Molokai Bar as bartenders greeted arrivals in the Bora Bora Bar. A crew from Exotic Tiki Island and ETI Radio set up outside for a live online broadcast that streamed for the next four hours. Go to ExoticTikiIlsand.com hear the show, which included interviews with Mai-Kai’s managers Starr and Kern Mattei, plus The Hukilau’s head honcho, Richard Oneslager.
Back in the restaurant’s room dedicated to showcasing its 69-year history, a special treat awaited. Manager Kern Mattei showed off some of the new photos that adorn the walls, large frames that hold vintage images of the Mai-Kai and its performers through the years. Be sure to check it out the next time you visit. It’s located in the room that formerly housed the restaurant’s Chinese ovens, now featuring a similar but elegant theme, courtesy of creative director “Typhoon Tommy” Allsmiller. This “flex space,” which is sometimes used for special events and parties, will eventually become the entry area for a new event center being build in the back of house. [See previous coverage]
Guests visiting during The Hukilau received an additional artifact to admire. Mattei and Starr, who also serves as general manager, were showing off a piece of Mai-Kai history recently rescued and restored from the restaurant’s warehouse by staff artist Tom Fowner. He recently completed work restoring one of the Mai-Kai’s vintage Tiki carvings, which many villagers were also enjoyed during their walks around the grounds.
• Previous story: Mai-Kai’s classic Tiki carving restored as reimagination continues
Set up in the center of the room like some contraption from a steampunk fantasy, this large piece of equipment was actually a vintage ice shaving machine used by the Mai-Kai’s bar staff in its early days to make the restaurant’s signature frozen shells that adorn may of the drinks. Mattei, whose father was general manager before him, said he remembers using it early in his career in the 1980s.
“That’s the same ice machine I used when I first started in the bar,” Mattei said during the ETI Radio interview. It dates back to at least 1959, and a framed photo showing the ice shaver in use during that year hung on the wall alongside the antique. Starr said they were having trouble getting it to work consistently, but they hoped to have it working for demonstrations in the future.. It’s a rare piece of not only Mai-Kai history, but American cocktail lore. The Mai-Kai inherited its specialized ice techniques from Tiki cocktail pioneer Don the Beachcomber, and many of the drinks still on the menu today date back to his 1930s-era classics.
The Tiki Diablo tribute was a 20-minute video shown to villagers via a large-screen TV on the showroom stage, rotated during each of three loops so hopefully everyone in all the dining areas had a decent view. The California artist and his wife, Stephanie Mehr, were fixtures at The Hukilau for decades.
• Previous coverage: The Hukilau 2026 honors a legend, welcomes new faces to 24th annual Tiki weekender
• Obituary: Gone too soon: Danny ‘Tiki Diablo’ Gallardo left indelible mark on Polynesian Pop revival
Below are select photos and slides from the presentation that show Gallardo during some of his past visits to the Mai-Kai and The Hukilau. Gallardo was inspired by the Mai-Kai, creating many mugs and artwork that will remain collector’s items for years to come. He was also a personal friend of many in attendance, which made the tribute especially poignant.
Oneslager spoke of Gallardo and his influence earlier in his ETI Radio interview. “He was an OG in the Tiki world, and so I really looked to him for guidance and advice,” The Hukilau organizer said. “He did a lot of art for us over the years, and I’m wearing a pendant that he did last year for our top passholders. He was finishing them just before he passed. So his wife Stephanie did five special ones for us with a special glaze that we’re going to auction off tonight.” Gallardo was an animal lover, so Mehr will direct proceeds to their favorite animal charity.
Following the slideshow, Oneslager took the stage to welcome everyone and announce the auction. Half of the proceeds, which totaled more than $1,000, were earmarked for pancreatic cancer research in honor of Stephanie Romer, wife of The Hukilau co-founder Tim “Swanky” Glazner, who recently lost her battle with the deadly disease.
Like Gallardo and Mehr, Glazner and Romer considered the Mai-Kai to be their “happy place.” She was a collaborator on his 2016 book, Mai-Kai: History and Mystery of the Iconic Tiki Restaurant, which is available in the restaurant’s gift shop. The author recently announced that he and the publisher plan to release an updated edition.
In the meantime, he’s busy with his new book, Searching for Don the Beachcomber, which Romer also played key role. After attending the Friday dinner at the Mai-Kai, Glazner did a presentation Saturday on Tiki’s founding father at the Beachcomber, then sold signed copies of the book in the Tiki Treasures Bazaar. You can order your own signed copy now via his online store.
As detailed above, the first performance of Heritage: A Polynesian Legacy was captivating. The dancers and musicians had been preparing for months and were definitely well-rehearsed. You would never have known it was a new show.
Many classic numbers remained, while some key additions were throwbacks to favorites from the past. The female dancers get a chance to shine with the return of the rhythmic Tahitian fa’arapu (from ‘Ori Tahiti). The exciting dance perfectly sets the stage for the men and their signature Samoan fire-knife dance, known as Siva Afi or ‘ailao afi. [See video]
The show’s final dance brings the women and men together for a throwback to favorite of founding dancer and longtime show producer (and former Mai-Kai owner) Mireille Thornton. Employing tight choreography, the team of six performs with wooden paddles to represent sailing and historical voyaging, representing the Tahitian culture’s connection with the sea. [See video]
Here are a few more photos that capture the energy of that first performance. With the addition of special Tahitian dance activities this month, it’s a great time to check out the new show.
Before Friday’s second dinner seating, The Intoxicators packed the Molokai in their first Mai-Kai performance since last summer. The Tallahassee instrumental surf band is a perennial favorite, making their 20th appearance at the event with their always tight and energetic sets.
Meanwhile in the showroom, another thunderous group took the stage to entertain villagers before the Mai-Kai dancers. The Taiko drum group Samkoma, which first performed during the 69th anniversary events in December, includes Mai-Kai lead musician Conrad Teheiura Itchener (aka Kabuki) and is led by the dynamic duo of Roy and Marina Anderson. The latter is better known as Marina the Fire Eating Mermaid, who just returned to the Mai-Kai (where she once danced on stage) as Malia, den mother to the Molokai Bar “maidens.”
Here are some photos from the Samkoma performance taken by Eric Anthony, aka @TheThirstyWalrus on Instagram.
SUNDAY: Last Chance Party with the King of Retro
Eager to soak up one last day Mai-Kai experience, hundreds of villagers descended upon the Mai-Kai bright and early Sunday. When doors opened at noon, local classic car enthusiasts had already arrived with a small but impressive array of mid-century beauties. The reason for all this excitement? The Ambassador of Americana, Charles Phoenix, of course.
If retro slideshows are the humorist’s bread and butter, then classic cars are his steak and potatoes. His “joyride” videos on YouTube are extensive, and the visiting Californian didn’t hesitate to take locals up on their offer to go for a spin or two.
Inside the Molokai Bar, the retro vibe was set perfectly with live music by Jackie Colada and her jazzy ensemble. The group performed eclectic sets of bossa nova and Latin standards all afternoon.
When Phoenix took the stage at 1 p.m., the only reason the showrooms weren’t filled to capacity was a limitation on seating so everyone could see the large screen and vintage eye candy during his “Floridaland” slideshow. The several hundred with prime seats had a rollicking good time as our fun-loving host took us on a virtual road trip to some of the state’s unique roadside attractions, tourist traps, souvenir shops, motels, and more.
In his return to The Hukilau (and Mai-Kai) following a 16-year absence, the bombastic host extolled the virtues of the Polynesian palace. To paraphrase his excited speech: “This place is absolutely world class. There’s no better Polynesian showplace on the planet.” [See video]
Phoenix promised not to take so much time before his next visit as he joined villagers in soaking up every last morsel of enjoyment. Here are a few more photos from Sunday’s grand finale …
The Hukilau 2026: Live coverage, photos and video from the Beachcomber Resort and Mai-Kai
See all the action from five days of nonstop entertainment, education, cocktails and camaraderie at the 24th annual Tiki weekender in South Florida.
Direct links to highlights: Photo & video recaps | Pool parties & bands | Mai-Kai events | Friday’s luau | Tiki Treasures Bazaar | Daily highlights
More events and news: Celebrating pirates, mermaids, fathers, and Broward’s best bar
The Hukilau was not the only event in June that attracted a ragtag bunch of rum-swilling ne’er-do-wells. Following the successful pillaging at the Pirate Takeover on April 19, the Mai-Kai expanded its welcome mat to two days of plundering on June 13-14 for the Scallywags and Sirens Takeover of the Bora Bora and Molokai bars.
Guests dressed in proper (or improper) attire were rewarded with with happy hour prices from opening until 7 p.m. as well as an exclusive menu of grub and libations. We’re sorry we missed the unique offerings, which included four new dishes from chef Justin Sherrer: Scally-Wagu Burger, Siren’s Ceviche, Pirate’s Poke Tacos, and Smuggler’s Sausage.
The cocktail menu was just as interesting, offering up four cocktails from beverage director Cory Starr and his staff: Blackbeard’s Ghost (Mai-Kai Rum No. 1, apricot, jet fuel, citrus), Triton’s Garden (tequila blend, mint, lime yuzu), Trixie Bomb (green tea, pineapple, tropical L.I.T. liquor blend), and Shipwreck’d (an island mashup of rums, orange and coconut).
Blackbeard’s Ghost is no doubt a riff on a classic from Jeff “Beachbum” Berry featuring Mai-Kai Rum No. 1 that we hope to taste in the future. A similar version was also served at The Hukilau 2025 by Orland’s Aku Aku (see tribute recipe) and again during one of this year’s bungalow parties.
Shipwreck’d could be a riff on another tropical standard (Shipwrecked), which typically pairs rum with coconut, orange, pineapple and lime. Triton’s Garden looks like a refreshing, tall tequila drink, though we’re unsure of its origins. We’ll keep an eye out for both at future events.
Trixie Bomb is a unique conconction that resembles a Long Island Iced Tea (aka L.I.T.) and is designed to be sucked down entirely through a straw in one continuous sip like a Mind Eraser. We tasted it at the Land of Mermaids event (see below) and found it to be light, exotic and refreshing. The standard shot of spirits (probably vodka, rum and gin) isn’t nearly enough to do any serious damage like a classic L.I.T. It should be noted that the cocktail is named in honor of Tricia Lee Cline (aka Trixie), the Mai-Kai’s kids activities coordinator and “resident mermaid” who entertains young guests on the rear Lanai. She’s also one of the organizers of the pirate takeover events.
For the second year in a row, the reimagined Mai-Kai was honored in the annual Best of Miami issue of the weekly Miami New Times newspaper. Last year, editors called the Mai-Kai the “Best Restaurant to Come Back From the Dead” while readers voted it “Best Restaurant Broward” (see coverage). This year, the bar program (and a newly designed space) earned kudos from the editors.
The Bora Bora Bar was named “Best Bar in Broward” in the annual awards announced June 17 and posted online here. Creative director “Typhoon Tommy” Allsmiller should share credit with owners, management and the bar team for executing a spectacular new design. [See video] The editors wrote:
“There are bars, and then there are places where sipping a cocktail comes with waterfalls, torches, palm fronds and the faint suspicion that a rum-soaked portal just opened off Federal Highway. After a $20 million-plus restoration to the property, Mai-Kai’s outdoor bar experience, Bora Bora, has returned with all the theatrical pull of the Fort Lauderdale landmark itself. The Bora Bora Bar gives guests a lush, open-air hideaway within the 2.7-acre Polynesian palace that first opened in 1956 and now sits on the National Register of Historic Places. The cocktail list is appropriately mighty, with more than 50 tiki drinks, custom collectible vessels and a bar program anchored by Mai-Kai Rum No. 1. Happy hour runs daily from 4 to 7 p.m. with half-off drinks at Bora Bora Bar (and inside at Molokai). Come for one drink and leave after three and a photo beside something on fire.”
The accolades continued when a local writer raved about her family’s Father’s Day experience in a story posted online by Boca Magazine. There’s truly something magical about Mai-Kai. I have only been around for a small part of its 70-year history, but you can easily see why it’s a go-to spot for family occasions and celebrations,” wrote Michelle Olson-Rogers, founder of the ModernBocaMom.com blog.
The Bora Bora Bar also gives the Mai-Kai a great space to host a vareity of unique events. One of those took place June 24, when the filmmakers behind the Land of the Mermaids documentary hosted a live watch party when the film made its PBS debut on Miami’s WPBT. We joined the festivites to support producers Sergio Figuera and Cindy Hing of
Jetsetter Films as well as several others who contributed to the documentary, both on screen and behind the scenes.
The film explores the cultural and financial impact that mermaids have had on the state of Florida with reports from Weeki Watchee Springs, Key West, Orlando, Fort Lauderdale, and more. It was selected for the Fort Lauderdale, Fort Myers, and Central Florida film festivals after its rerlease in 2023. It also aired June 29 on Palm Beach County’s WXEL. Look for showings on other PBS stations. [View the trailer]
It was a festive evening that featured performances by singer/songwriter Kahra Keyes, who is featured in the film, along with two large screens that that showed the movie live at 9 p.m. Also in attendance were Marina the Fire Eating Mermaid and some of her aquatic brothers and sisters, cheering on from their front-row seats. As noted in our Hukilau coverage above, Marina has deep ties to the Mai-Kai as well as being a pioneering underwater performer. It was also just announced that she’ll be returning to the family, serving as official ambassador and metua vahine for the Molokai Lounge (that’s Tahitian for mother).
There were also special cocktails available that night, though there was no printed menu. We had the Trixie Bomb (as discussed above) and Merman Mojito, a take on the Mango Southside (gin, mango, lime, simple syrup, mint.) Structured more like a Mojito, Starr’s version features the same mango-infused Still Gin used in The Cannibal cocktail, the mixologist revealed. Served in a Pina Colada glass, it was refreshing but also had some nice depth of flavor.
The month wrapped up with another Bourbon, Burger and Beast event on June 27 in conjunction with the long-running Burger Beast website. The ticketed dinner included an signature event burger, Mai-Kai appetizers and a special cocktail.
Previous Mai-Kai updates
• The Hukilau 2026 at the Mai-Kai: Updated stage show, special menus, cocktail ratings
• Mai-Kai updates: The Hukilau welcomes Charles Phoenix, past event recaps, appetizer ratings
• Classic Tiki carving restored, reimagination continues
• Mai-Kai Restoration & Reopening Guide
Food and cocktail reviews: Our take on reimagined classics, special menu items
If you’ve followed The Atomic Grog for any length of time, you’ll know that we go our of our way to sample all the cocktails served at the Mai-Kai, even those that don’t appear on the regular menus. If we’re lucky, we’ll find an old recipe or figure out a cool tribute version.
Since the 2024 reopening, beverage director Cory Starr has kept us on our toes with an endless array of new drinks for special occasions, most notably Halloween and Christmas. We missed one recently (see above), but we never miss the opportunity to sample the unique offerings at The Hukilau, which we’ve attended since 2008.
In the past, these included retired cocktails from old menus and full-blown food-cocktail pairings for guest bartenders. This year, we were in for a treat, which we covered in our (pun intended) table-setter in early June:
Previous coverage: Special cocktail menu includes four retired classics
Below you’ll find reviews and ratings of all the special menu items we tasted during The Hukilau events June 3-7. Scroll up to see photos, video and full coverage of all the official Mai-Kai events during the weekend.
THE FOOD
As detailed above, we were privileged to enjoy the bartender’s dinner in the Tahiti Room on Wednesday, June 3, a five-course feast featuring small bites paired with new and classic cocktails. [See menu] Two of chef Justin Sherrer’s offerings (Smuggler’s Spring Rolls and Typhoon Shelter Shrimp) were also on the special menu that was available to all guests Thursday through Sunday.
The exclusive dishes included the spicy and herbaceous South Seas Ceviche, which was very fresh and loaded seafood flavor, to the Koji Grilled Chicken Khao Soi, which was essentially a chicken pineapple curry with a very interesting composition like many of the chef’s dishes. It was spicy and had great flavor with just the right amount of heat, the sauce very similar to the curry dish on the dinner menu.
Our favorite dish of the entire evening, however, was the Kona Coffee Grog Custard, an homage to the classic dessert drink with tons of sweet and rich flavor. The coffee flavor was light, and the dessert course was pretty much a flan in texture and taste with unique pancake-like flavor notes. Note to the chef: Please add this to the permanent dessert menu.
Of the four specials that guests enjoyed throughout the weekend, we were most impressed with the Paniolo Burger, which is really not new. As noted in our previous story, this charred beef extravaganza was launched in the Molokai Bar on select nights. We’re told it’s now available every night on both bars, a welcome addition with its distinctive mashup of textures (crispy cheese, crunchy onion) and flavors (guava smoked bacon, spicy pineapple kimchi) that somehow all work in harmony to create a savory treat that rivals any craft burger joint.
We also enjoyed the Smuggler’s Spring Rolls, which were constructed like the classic app but loaded with rich beef short rib, peppers and onion. The cabbage kept it crunchy and the sweet chili brought a little extra kick. The Typhoon Shelter Shrimp was also a solid dish featuring beyond jumbo crustaceans with a distinctive crust flavored with black bean and wine, topped with garlic and chili oil. Less adventurous was the Hukilau Hand Roll, a rather bland salmon poke dish featuring avocado, veggies and rice but nothing too exciting.
A month after The Hukilau, the Mai-Kai released a new happy hour menu that’s available in both bars from 4 to 7 p.m. That’s when those in the know gather for half-priced cocktails, including all signature excpept the group drinks. This is the first regular happy hour menu since the November 2024 reopening.
There are nine small plates on the menu, ranging from $5 for the Skinny Fries to $12 for the aforementioned Paniolo Burger and the new Salmon Wonton Tacos. Other previously unavailable items are the Beef Spring Rolls, which appear to be similar to the dish served during The Hukilau, and Coconut Shrimp. The latter was a standout item on the appetizer menu until it was removed in February.
Food ratings: Reviews of all the Mai-Kai’s apps (May 2026)
The discounts are significant, with most dishes priced at $10 or less, an average savings of around $6 (30 percent). The rest of the full regular appetizer menu is still available during happy hour, just not at discount prices.
THE DRINKS
Similar to the food, the cocktails served at the Wednesday bartender’s dinner also included two (White Cloud, Dr. Fong) that were later served to all guests throughout the weekend. You can find reviews and ratings below. The other three were special drinks created for the occasion using sponsor ingredients, most notably Tanduay Rum.
The Mai Tai, featuring Tanduay Gold and Mai-Kai Rum No. 1, was not a whole lot different than the version you can oder off the main menu. It’s worth noting that the standard Mai Tai features a blend of multiple rums around 80 proof, but you can also order the off-menu “Rum No. 1 Mai Tai” that exclusively uses the signature 100-proof blend. It’s worth the upgrade.
Bartenders also tasted what was billed as a 1956 Beachcomber Zombie, but it included some unique ingredients (sherry, amarao) in addition to Tanduay gold rum and other elements you’ll normally find in Don he Beachcomber’s
mid-century version of his classic (maraschino liqueur, lime, grapefruit, pineapple, pomegranate). It might have been too ambitious for its own good, but we still found it solid and refreshing as the first course.
Our clear favorite, however, came last. Paired with the delicious Kona Coffee Grog Custard was the Mutiny, but this was not the standard version you’ll find on the strong menu, served in a large snifter and loaded with fresh juices. Rather, it was an Old Fashioned riff featuring the traditional flavors of the classic drink, strained over a large rock with a grapefruit peel. It was very coffee-forward and rich, making it a very enjoyable sip with dessert. The color of the drink was dark, so we knew of wasn’t technically clarified, but Starr later revealed that he used this modern technique on some of the ingredients. We’re guessing it was the juices, which could be detected in the background.
Moving on to the four drinks that everyone was able to enjoy all weekend on the inventive menu that also served as a coloring and puzzle book. As detailed on our previous story, all were unearthed by Starr and his team from the Mai-Kai archives.
Three are classics from the 1956 menu that were retired over the years. The fourth was a cocktail from founding mixologist Mariano Licudine’s archives. Following are reviews and ratings, in order, based on multiple tastings during The Hukilau.
White Cloud (Rating: 4 stars) – An outstanding revival of a Mariano Licudine pre-Mai-Kai classic, thought to be an ancestor to Moonkist Coconut. We found it to be creamy and rummy with some nice orange liqueur notes, but also very balanced and refreshing. Starr’s version using silver rum, falernum, creole shrubb, lime, and a unique coconut blend brings a lot of potent flavors to the fore. An unexpected favorite of the weekend, this blended drink would be perfect on the after-dinner menu. We hope to come up with a tribute recipe soon, but in the meantime you can make the version published in the 10th anniversary edition of Beachbum Berry’s Sippin’ Safari.
Last Rites (3 1/2 stars) – The latest version of this simple classic was tart and rummy with a very dry flavor profile. Starr has toyed with multiple versions since taking over the bar program and served them at special events. This one downplays the agricole rhum, leaning into the sour and bitter notes. It was potent, yes, but also well balanced and featured just the right amount of the grassy French-style rhum. [See previous versions] At some point, we’ll circle back and add a new tribute recipe to our story that traces this cocktail back to Don the Beachcomber’s Puka-Puka Punch.
Demerara Float (3 1/2 stars) – Strong and potent like the classic, but also more juicy and diluted than the original since it was served over crushed ice instead of the traditional ice feature. Two other major changes: The “side of danger” served during The Hukilau was Mai-Rum No. 1, replacing the previous 86-proof Demerara rum. And Starr added a touch of maraschino liqueur, which made the cocktail more like the OG, Don the Beachcomber’s Demerara Dry Float. You can find more details and an updated tribute recipe below.
Dr. Fong (3 stars) – A distinctive flavor bomb thanks to what the bartender’s dinner menu called a “funky white rum blend,” plus the signature anise notes punching through the tart lime and pomegranate grenadine. There’s also some Angostura in the mix, further differentiating it from the much more clean version served in the past. We’re certain the rum blend featured some Wray & Nephew Overproof from Jamaica, edging this version closer to the 1930s version of Don the Beachcomber’s Doctor Funk. An updated tribute recipe is in the works.
Follow the links below for updated our ratings and ancestry of all the main menu drinks we’ve tasted. White Cloud is not included since it never appeared on an official menu. Hopefully that will change.
MAI-KAI COCKTAIL RATINGS & HISTORY
• Ratings of Mai-Kai cocktails, current and historic (Updated June 2026)
• Mai-Kai cocktail ancestry: History of the classics (Updated June 2026)
Bonus cocktail recipe
Tribute to the Mai-Kai’s Demerara Float, v.4
(As served during The Hukilau 2026)
By The Atomic Grog, June 2026
• 1 ounce fresh lime juice
• 1/2 ounce rich simple syrup
• 1/2 ounce passion fruit syrup
• 1 ounce Demerara rum
• 1/8 ounce maraschino liqueur
• 1 ounce Mai-Kai Rum No. 1 (for float) / Sub Demerara rum (86 or 151 proof)
Flash blend everything – except the rum for float – with 1 heaping cup of crushed ice for 5-8 seconds. Pour unstrained into a stemmed glass around 8-10 ounces. Garnish with a swizzle stick. Float the Mai-Kai or Demerara rum. Stir with swizzle.
More on the Demerara Float: Detailed story, including mixing and ingredient notes, previous tribute recipes
Okole maluna!
PLEASE DRINK RESPONSIBLY!
Okole Maluna Society: The Mai-Kai Cocktail Guide
Hurricane Hayward reviews and rates the historic restaurant’s current and past tropical drinks, plus reveals a treasure trove of ancestor and exclusive tribute recipes.
PREVIOUS COVERAGE: THE MAI-KAI AND THE HUKILAU
The Mai-Kai is rolling out the red carpet for The Hukilau this week as hundreds of revelers roll into South Florida for the 24th annual weekender that celebrates vintage and modern Tiki culture.
The Hukilau 2026 at the Mai-Kai: Updated stage show, special menus, cocktail ratings
Direct links: Special cocktail menu includes four retired classics
• Updated Atomic Grog cocktail rankings, history
Mai-Kai updates: The Hukilau welcomes Charles Phoenix, past event recaps, appetizer ratings
The East Coast’s longest-running Polynesian Pop event returns June 3-7 with an expansive schedule that includes three days and nights at the Mai-Kai, including a special presentation by “the King of Retro.”
Food ratings: Reviews of all the Mai-Kai’s apps
RECENT MAI-KAI NEWS
Mai-Kai’s classic Tiki carving restored as reimagination continues
Take an inside look at the restoration of the vintage carving by artist Tom Fowner, including exclusive photos and step-by-step guide to his work. GET THE FULL STORY
Direct links: Barney West tiki revived | Photos, in-depth recap
MORE: Gift shop revamped, new guest space in the works
Mai-Kai kicks off 2026 with new food and drink menus, special events
The historic South Florida restaurant remains laser-focused on improving the cocktails, food and guest experience.
SPECIAL FEATURES
Mai-Kai Rum No. 1: Everything you need to know about historic restaurant’s signature spirit
Answers to common questions about the new 100-proof blend from Barbados and Jamaica, bottled exclusively for the Mai-Kai.
Answers to frequently asked questions about the Mai-Kai
Check out our handy guide featuring all the basics you need to know to plan your next trip to the Polynesian palace.
Photo and video tour: The 16 most iconic photo spots at the Mai-Kai
Learn how to get those classic shots on your next trip to the historic South Florida restaurant. We take you on an adventure via new and vintage photos, plus video from Spike’s Breezeway to document the top locations inside and outside.
EXCLUSIVE: Mai-Kai Restoration & Reopening Guide
Check out all past news, photos, video and deep details on the refurbishment and resurrection of the Polynesian palace.
HUKILAU PAST COVERAGE
2025
The Hukilau 2025: Live coverage, photos and video from the Beachcomber Resort and Mai-Kai
Take a look back and all the fun and festivities at the 23rd Tiki weekender in South Florida.
Photos, video: Mai-Kai unveils two large tiki carvings during The Hukilau 2025
Guests are now greeted by two towering tikis in the restaurant’s reimagined entry area, one created locally by a familiar artist, the other in Arizona by a veteran carver.
• The Hukilau returns to the Mai-Kai for five days of Tiki festivities
• Mai-Kai welcomes The Hukilau guest bartenders with exclusive dinner
• Beverage director reunites with old friends at The Hukilau finale
2024
The Hukilau highlights: Photos and memories from 2024 Tiki weekender
Check out The Atomic Grog’s deep dive into all the fun at the Beachcomber Resort and sneak peek at the Mai-Kai, including our favorite moments from throughout the four-day Tiki weekender.
• Live coverage, photos and video from social media
• Inside the Molokai Bar and tour of the Mai-Kai restoration
2023
The Hukilau highlights: Photos and memories from Tiki weekender
The 21st annual event featured four days of nonstop music, cocktails and education on modern and historic Polynesian Pop at the oceanfront Beachcomber Resort in South Florida.
• The Hukilau 2023 live coverage, photos and video from social media
2022
The Hukilau 2022: Daily recap, photos and video
The 20th Tiki weekender featured four days of live music, educational seminars, cocktails and rum tastings, plus lots more.
• The Mai-Kai’s new owner reveals renovation plans during The Hukilau
PREVIOUS YEARS
• 2021: Daily recap, photos and video | Zombie party is final challenge | Full coverage
• 2020: Virtual events honor The Hukilau, help those in need
• 2019: 10 highlights and photos | Social media recap | Full coverage
• 2018 social media recap | More highlights
• 2017 daily recaps, news, photos and video | More highlights
• More recaps: 2016 | 2015 | 2014 | 2013 | 2012 | 2011 | 2010 | 2009 | 2002-2008
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