Mai-Kai is one of Fort Lauderdale's treasures.
Though a rare gem now, in the 1950's and 60's the United States was filled with restaurant showplaces like Latin Quarter, Trader Vic's, The Hawaiian Cottage, and Mai-Kai.
These themed restaurants had elaborate decor, fruity and potent drinks, and, most likely, live entertainment.
Many of these places have since closed, but Mai-Kai, built in 1956 for about $3,000, has continued serving Tiki drinks and holding Polynesian revues for over 50 years.
Nightlife historian, Peter Moruzzi, has authored a book chronicling these classic restaurants. Classic Dining: Discovering America's Finest Mid-Century Restaurants ($30), highlights the restaurants our parents and grandparents frequented. South Florida restaurants Moruzzi has featured include Joe's Stone Crab, Fox's Sherron Inn, and Mai-Kai.
Moruzzi is giving an illustrated talk on the book at the Mai-Kai on Thursday, December 13 from 7 p.m. - 9 p.m. in the Tahiti Room. Afterward, Moruzzi will be signing copies of Classic Dining, which will be available for sale on-site.
To celebrate the event, the restaurant is extending their happy hour to 9 p.m., so you'll be able to enjoy half-priced drinks and appetizers. No purchase is required to attend the free talk, but an RSVP is strongly suggested, as space is limited.
Follow Laine Doss on Twitter @LaineDoss and Facebook.
Follow @ CleanPlateBPB