Post #717313 by Doc Aikane on Sat, May 17, 2014 7:07 PM

On 2014-05-13 06:59, EPCOTExplorer wrote:
Despite being a lifelong Miamian, I've never made it to the Mai Kai... and I'm a little distressed that it's been cited by the health dept.

Can one just go to the Mai Kai and order drinks and still enjoy the show and grounds? Or are the ammeneties strictly for diners only? I would love to eat there, but I'm a bit leery...

E E

I was just at the Mai Kai 3 nights ago - my first trip back in months. Yes, you can go in and just head to the bar (immediately to your left when you walk in). You can also feel free to get up and take a self guided tour of the restaurant, gift shop, and gardens. Wednesday night is very popular thanks to free sushi, and happy hour runs till 7 if I remember correctly. The Mai Kai cocktails are not cheap so if it's your first time go during happy hour so you can try a few (and bring a designated driver).

Remember, the Mai Kai is a swanky joint from the 50s, and it still has the type of service you would expect back from those days. Your car will be parked by a valet (free). A doorman will greet you when you walk in, and 5 feet in front of him will be the host who will find a table for you if you want to eat. Just heading to the bar? Three feet away from the doorman is the bar entrance, where you'll also find a host to welcome you to the bar. Going to the restroom? The attendant will hand you a clean towel after you wash your hands. Not to worry though, the attire is fairly casual (hawaiian shirt is perfect) and the staff is always very friendly and will guide you to where you want to be.

Don't let the health department thing scare you off. If you read the actual report you'll see most of what they were cited for was minor (Soda guns not sparkling clean? A worker not washing his hands before he put on gloves? Really? I won't mention the other findings here.)

I'm happy to say they have done a nice job of renovating the gardens. Some of the more damaged tikis have been replaced, and the waterfall is no longer painted green (whose idea was that anyway???). There is still plenty of work to be done (fix the damn ceiling in the gift shop already!!!) but it looks like they are finally starting to put some money back into the place.

Your first trip will NOT be your last, so take my advice. Go to the Mai Kai website and download a copy of the application for the Mai Kai Club, fill it out, and bring it with you on your first visit. For $20 you'll get your membership card in the mail along with $18 drink coupons and two 2-4-1 admissions to the show. The card is good for 25% off all your bills on weekdays. It will pay for itself your first return trip. Good through the Summer until December comes.

http://maikai.com/experience/mai-kai-club