Restaurants

Ah, Malibu! It’s one of the most upscale, yet completely mellow and casual beach towns in Southern California. One restaurant that perfectly encapsulates the dual nature of Malibu is Geoffrey’s, right off Pacific Coast Highway. A meal here is accompanied by some of the best views a restaurant can have.

Pull into the driveway and parking lot of Geoffrey’s Malibu, and you know you’re getting a special meal. A valet will quickly take care of you, parking your car carefully amid a sea of shining BMWs, Mercedes, Audis and even a Bentley or two. These mega-deluxe autos belie what awaits inside: Jeans, t-shirts, and California casual attire along with a relaxed, happy atmosphere. Geoffrey’s reflects Malibu in other ways, as well. Subtle mirrors panel the rear wall, bringing the ocean views from the front to everyone (reflects Malibu, get it? Well, I like it anyway). There isn’t a “bad table” in the restaurant.

The ocean views are a knock out, no doubt. But the entrees hold up as well – this is no beachside fish fry. My favorite meal here is brunch, but sunset dinners here are incredible too.

If you make a weekend brunch reservation, I recommend the lobster and scallop ceviche. It’s cool and refreshing, really hits the spot after a hot walk on the beach. My family also raves about the oysters (only available seasonally) and coconut shrimp. Eggs Benedict, challah French toast and other typical brunchy items are available, as well as options that are geared more to the lunch-oriented, like seafood paella and ahi tuna. Everything is prepared with the freshest ingredients, and presented beautifully. I’ve never been disappointed in a Geoffrey’s brunch. For dinner, call ahead to request sunset views. The seafood paella and some other brunch items are also offered for dinner; I love the special Geoffrey’s Surf and Turf. The steak (filet) is braised on a Cabernet sauce, and the lobster sauce that accompanies the lobster tastes faintly of vanilla. It works, believe me.

Now, Geoffrey’s Malibu is NOT cheap. In fact, it’s very expensive. It’s not an every Sunday kind of brunch place, but it makes a special occasion absolutely great. When you’re on vacation in Southern California and want to experience the fun blend of luxury and California casual that exemplifies Malibu, Geoffrey’s is the restaurant for you.