Mai-Kai — Photo courtesy of Mai-Kai

The Mai-Kai is a Fort Lauderdale legend. Ask anyone who is familiar with this city and they know about the Mai-Kai. This recreated Polynesian village on Federal Highway, just north of Oakland Park Boulevard is, without question, one of the most unique dining and entertaining venues in all of South Florida.

Built in 1956, the Mai-Kai has entertained guests with an authentic Polynesian experience, complete with Polynesian dances and dancers decked out in grass skirts, hand-painted cloth sarongs, leis and traditional feathered headpieces. Its thatched roof, tiki torches and giant tiki sculptures standing guard over the amazing gardens instantly make you forget the city just outside. Each room shows a different region of Polynesia and overlooks an enchanting waterfall or tantalizing lagoon.

The Mai-Kai's amazing menu will have you coming back again and again. Peruse the list of appetizers with such items as the Pupu Platter, which serves two. This is a delightful combination of Shanghai Chicken, egg roll, Crab Rangoon and Tahitian Cheese Tangs. Of the list of entrees, perhaps you can try the Penang Curry Chicken. This delicious selection is tender slices of chicken simmered in a slightly sweet Thai coconut curry sauce.

Desserts are tempting, so why not choose the fitting and delightful Pineapple Sherbet or the Mai-Kai's own creation, the Macadamia Nut Swirl, which is simply vanilla with chocolate swirl ice cream? Oh, so delicious! A children's menu is also available, so bring them along. They will enjoy the show as well as such items as Kan Tiki Chicken, Bora Bora Beef and Captain Cook's Ribs.

And for the adults, don't forget the Molokai Bar. This South Seas saloon offers a tantalizing 51 tropical drinks. The Mai-Kai is available for weddings, banquets and even catering.