Bayfront Icon Gets Major Makeover

Bali Hai Restaurant to reopen after four month renovation

It's "aloha" to the old and -- OK - "aloha" to the new as the "Goof on the Roof" and Mr. Bali Hai prepare for their big grand opening celebration.  

The Bali Hai Restaurant, perched on the northeast end of Shelter Island, is set to reopen this week (the Bali Hai documented the renovation as it progressed) following a four-month, $4 million renovation; about the only thing that hasn't changed is its "best view possible" of the beautiful downtown skyline.

The Bali Hai, built in the early 1950s, has long been one of the county's favorite dining and banquet destinations. Sporting a great view and authentic ties to Hawaii through decor and menu, this is the place generations of San Diegans have chosen for their senior prom dinner, returning later to get engaged and later still to celebrate any number of special occasions.

For some 30 years it featured what was arguably the best Hawaiian review this side of the Pacific. The hour-long show featured quick-tempoed South Seas music, beautiful Tahitian and Hawaiian hula dancers and, of course, Kimo, the Polynesian showman with the big opu (stomach). 

Mayor Jerry Sanders is among the dignitaries scheduled to be on hand April 21 when the veil comes off and the new Bali Hai Restaurant,  facelift complete, reopens with a new look and menu but -- and you'll all agree -- thank-goodness, the same spectacular view -- make that finest view of America's Finest City.

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