The Top 5 Restaurants in Malibu

Home to sprawling beaches and luxurious oceanfront properties, Malibu has long been a premier dining destination. From upscale American cuisine to local farm-to-table fare, the city offers an array of unique cuisines and experiences. Many of the most popular restaurants in the city are set alongside the coast, which allows you to take in your surroundings while you enjoy your meal.

With scenic beauty and a more relaxed atmosphere, your dining experience can be enhanced in ways that aren’t possible in other locations. Dining plays a major role in Malibu’s culture. While this coastal city is best known for its beaches, the residents who live there know that Malibu is host to some of the best restaurants in Southern California. Begin your culinary journey by the sea with this in-depth look at five of the top restaurants in Malibu that you should visit in the near future.

5. Nobu Malibu

Nobu Malibu is a famous restaurant that has garnered international acclaim and offers a luxurious and elegant setting. At the head of the restaurant is renowned chef Nobu Matsuhisa. When you dine at Nobu Malibu, you’ll notice beautiful oceanfront views and modern decor that set the stage for a lovely evening.

While their menu offers considerable variety, Nobu Malibu focuses on a Japanese-Peruvian fusion with most of their items. Their signature dishes include black cod with miso and yellowtail sashimi jalapeño, both of which were brought over from Nobu Matsuhisa. However, you’ll also discover some Malibu favorites on their menu. Consider trying dishes like Kobe beef with crispy shiitake mushrooms or ribeye with yuzu butter sauce.

Their dessert menu is also expansive. For a more memorable experience, try their dessert bento box, which includes dark chocolate fondant and matcha. Some other unique desserts you may wish to sample include chocolate harumaki, affogato, and kurozato. A vast selection of red and white wines is also available by bottle.

Nobu Malibu often provides guests with a memorable experience. You may spot celebrities during your meal. You’ll notice that the patio seating is designed with comfort in mind. The tables are surrounded by plush lounge chairs and couches that offer a more relaxing experience.

If you’re considering stopping by Nobu Malibu, you’ll need to set a reservation well beforehand. You can find this restaurant at 22706 Pacific Coast Hwy. in Malibu. To make a reservation, either call (310) 317-9140 or do so from their website.

4. Malibu Farm Restaurant & Pier Café

Malibu Farm Restaurant & Pier Café is a cozy and comfortable eatery in the heart of Malibu that uses fresh and locally sourced ingredients in all its dishes. They offer a full bar with specialty cocktails as well.

When you arrive at the restaurant, you can expect a more rustic, farm-to-table atmosphere. The restaurant is situated on the pier, which means that you should have gorgeous views of the ocean no matter where you’re seated. The outdoor seating area is partially covered, which will protect you from the elements as you appreciate the breathtaking scenery.

Since all of their ingredients are fresh and locally sourced, they focus on healthy, organic dishes. For example, they offer a zucchini crust pizza with heirloom tomatoes, marinara, and mozzarella. For a heartier meal, try the soy ginger hanger steak or lobster mac and cheese, the latter of which is made with a combination of Gruyere, cheddar, and Parmesan. Their dinner specials include the catch of the day, which varies.

Some of the brunch favorites that you should try when visiting the Malibu Farm Restaurant include steak and eggs, an acai bowl, ABC tacos, and poblano lobster burritos. Their kids menu includes a handful of dishes, such as plain pasta, quesadilla, and chicken pasta. Keep in mind that they offer seasonal menus to ensure that the produce and seafood they use are ripe and fresh.

By offering vegan dishes and only using the best ingredients, Malibu Farm strives to implement sustainable practices that keep visitors healthy and protect the environment. While the restaurant is equipped with a full bar, it’s a family-friendly setting.

The Malibu Farm Restaurant is located at 23000 CA-1 Building A. If you want to make a reservation or have questions about the menu, you can reach the restaurant at (310) 456-8850. While Malibu Farm is open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, reservations can only be made for dinner.

3. Geoffrey’s Malibu

Geoffrey’s Malibu is a staple of the city that has a rich history and enduring legacy. It began in 1948 as Holiday House, a sprawling hotel that sat at the water’s edge and played host to stars like Lana Turner, John F. Kennedy, Frank Sinatra, and Marilyn Monroe. When you receive your food at Geoffrey’s Malibu, you’ll instantly notice how much care and attention they put into the presentation of each dish.

Dining at Geoffrey’s Malibu gives you access to cliffside seating and panoramic ocean views. It’s a romantic and intimate setting that’s perfect for an anniversary or date. The restaurant advertises itself as being a go-to destination for major events and special occasions. They offer special prix fixe menus for weddings, bridal showers, birthday celebrations, and holiday parties.

Regardless of where you sit in the restaurant, you’ll have a view of the ocean. The tables are surrounded by fire pits to keep you cozy even when the temperatures are cool. The Californian cuisine at Geoffrey’s Malibu has an emphasis on seafood and fresh produce. If you visit for brunch, try the sauteed lump crab cakes, watermelon salad, or jumbo coconut shrimp. Their dinner menu includes entrees like grilled Pacific swordfish, prime New York steak, and herb-crusted salmon. Their menus can change based on the availability of seasonal items.

If you’re considering making a reservation, this restaurant is ideal for special occasions and sunset dining. Before eating at this restaurant, keep in mind that reservations are required. Geoffrey’s Malibu is located at 27400 Pacific Coast Hwy. You can make reservations by calling (310) 457-1519 or by visiting Opentable.com. When making reservations, keep in mind that they have a strict and formal dress code.

2. Mastro’s Ocean Club

Mastro’s Ocean Club offers an upscale dining experience that you can’t get anywhere else. Along with stunning ocean views along the Pacific Coast Highway, you’ll also benefit from being just minutes away from the Surfrider Beach and Malibu Pier. When you enter the restaurant, you’ll see elegant, sophisticated decor with oceanfront seating that offers the perfect fine-dining experience.

The cuisine at Mastro’s focuses on seafood, premium steaks, and an extensive wine list. When you first arrive at your table and are getting ready to order, consider starting your meal with some caviar or sauteed shrimp. They also offer a selection of sushi, including dishes like clear lobster roll and crispy garlic tuna sashimi.

Mastro’s is one of the small number of restaurants in and around Malibu that offers premium American and Japanese Wagyu. Their Japanese A5 Wagyu comes from the Miyazaki Prefecture. The primary steaks available as part of their menu include New York strip, porterhouse, and bone-in filet.

As you dine at Mastro’s, you’ll be entertained by live music. During your meal, you’ll receive high-end service that will account for all your needs. Mastro’s can be found at 18412 Pacific Coast Hwy. To learn more about their menu or set a reservation, call (310) 454-4357.

1. Moonshadows Malibu

Moonshadows Malibu is a popular eatery with a more laid-back yet refined vibe. They are open for lunch, dinner, and brunch on the weekends. All the drinks available at Moonshadows Malibu are handcrafted to ensure visitors receive the very best.

The restaurant offers a casual elegance that makes it suitable for any occasion. Like most of the restaurants in this guide, Moonshadows Malibu provides access to beachfront seating for spectacular views of the ocean. Their tiki-themed patio is the perfect setting for ocean view dining.

The menu at Moonshadows focuses on seafood. It’s based on American cuisine with a modern twist. Some of the favorites include seabass, octopus and lobster pasta, and calamari. Don’t forget to pair your meal with one of their wines. They offer a selection of red and white varietals.

While indoor seating is available at Moonshadows, visitors often choose to dine on the spacious outdoor patio. The restaurant also offers a wide selection of famous cocktails to consider. You can find Moonshadows Malibu at 20356 Pacific Coast Hwy. Whether you’d like to make a reservation or learn more about their menu, you can call the restaurant at (310) 456-3010.

Conclusion

From luxurious restaurants like Nobu to more relaxed and laid-back spots like Moonshadows, Malibu has a diverse and vibrant dining scene that offers considerable variety. When visiting the city, explore these top restaurants to get a taste of all the city has to offer.