Founded in 1956, Mai Kai Restaurant was opened by Bob and Jack Thornton in an age when roadside attractions were springing up all over Florida. The restaurant features a bar, tiki bar, gift shop, eight dining rooms and tropical gardens with walking paths and waterfalls. Each of its rooms reflects a different region of Polynesia and overlooks a waterfall and lagoon. Its cuisine includes Cantonese and American-style dishes. The restaurant serves a variety of appetizers, including onion rings, chicken tenders, cheese sticks, nachos and cheese fries. Its side dishes include steamed vegetables, seasoned rice, butter croissants and mashed potatoes. The restaurant also offers a variety of desserts, soups, salads and combination platters. Mai Kai Restaurant is located in Fort Lauderdale, Fla.