Dining
Sharing some of the best views in the world, Malibu’s choice dining options abound. Geoffrey’s (27400 Pacific Coast Highway; 310.457.1519) is on every social circle’s lips as the all-around favorite and by far the best brunch in Malibu. Everyone worth knowing sits down to seafood-laden tables set atop dramatic Cliffside bluffs. Zooma Sushi (29350 Pacific Coast Highway; 310.457.4131) wins for its low-key appeal and unique sushi combos sent out by the chef. It also serves as the place to go for sake and irresistible green tea tempura ice cream. Chart House (18412 Pacific Coast Highway; 310.454.9321) takes in the most magnificent sunset views of Topanga Point.
Malibu’s eclectic nature accounts for a variety of distinct fine-dining frontrunners. Sage Room (28915 Pacific Coast Highway.; 310.457.0711) imports authentic Italian from Sanremo to Malibu, incorporating healthy, natural ingredients into the art of cooking with passion. The Old Place (29983 Mulholland Highway; 818.706.9001) in Agoura Hills is steeped in history. Its quaint country feel complements the smoky flavors of exotic game roasted over oak fires. Terra (21337 Pacific Coast Highway; 310.456.1221) transports the garden onto your dinner plate. French doors open from a converted cottage to a patio strewn with thousands of fragments of broken Malibu Potteries tile where diners can enjoy gourmet homegrown delights.
You can count on Malibu for rustic beach huts serving casual seashore fare along the California coastline. Neptune’s Net Seafood Restaurant (42505 Pacific Coast Highway; 310.457.3095) caters to surfers, celebs, and locals who frequent the hidden treasure for its seafood staples. Malibu Seafood (25653 Pacific Coast Highway; 310.456.3430) is owned and operated by commercial fishermen, ensuring top seafood and known for its signature tartar sauce. Reel Inn (18661 Pacific Coast Highway; 310.456.8221) has been a landmark for fish and brew since Malibu became the epicenter of surfing, hailing beach-goers and commuters with its cheeky signage.
If you’re heading to or retreating from a full day of shopping or surfing, you can stop for a laid-back meal at one of local’s lunch favorites at Malibu Country Mart. Malibu Mutt’s Grill (3835 Cross Creek Road; 310.456.1211) next to John’s Garden has plenty of picnic tables and the best burger and fry combo around making it popular with families, while Howdy’s Taqueria (3835 Cross Creek Road; 310.456.6299) is a fun spot to grab tacos.
Nightlife
Once you’ve had your fill of freshly caught seafood, infiltrate Malibu’s vibrant after-hours scene. The lounge at The Sunset Restaurant (6800 Westward Beach Road; 310.589.1007) is an elegant beach-chic hideaway on Zuma Beach where couples and intimate circles can sip sophisticated cocktails. Barrel Malibu Wine Bar (23715 Malibu Road; 310.456.8777) tantalizes taste buds with a rare wine collection reflecting Malibu’s eclectic spirit. Linger through the evening with pours from older vintages as well as the world’s hottest new boutique wineries. Gladstone’s Malibu (17300 Pacific Coast Highway; 310.454.3474) attracts trendsetting singles to its casual cool ambiance recently created by SBE nightlife king Sam Nazarian.
Cover Story
July 14, 2010The Winning Legacy of World Champions
