Lobster rolls, uni-topped everything, and picnic tables. Fun, indulgent, and actually good.
Order: Lobster roll — add the uni if you're feeling it
Seafood · Civic Center · $$
Crew: Jamie Patricof
Arguably the best coffee in Malibu.
Order: A latte
Coffee · Cross Creek · $
Crew: Jamie Patricof
Great all-around breakfast spot — just don't expect seating beyond a few small tables outside.
Order: The burritos are the move
American · PCH · $
Crew: Jamie Patricof
A local favorite for a reason — and check out Howdy's Sushi next door for surprisingly great Japanese.
Order: The burrito — don't overthink it
Mexican · Malibu Colony Plaza · $
Crew: Jamie Patricof
Lean into the Americana at this classic burger stand.
Order: A burger and a hot dog
Burgers · PCH · $
Crew: Jamie Patricof
A go-to for a quick bite or lunch in the park — even mid-summer, you can usually find a table.
Order: Sandwiches and fresh juices
Deli · Cross Creek · $
Crew: Jamie Patricof
The Point Dume breakfast-burrito institution. Go early — they sell out.
Order: The breakfast burrito
Latin American · Point Dume · $
Crew: Jamie Patricof
The new-ish steakhouse with old-school charm — think martinis and wedge salads.
Order: A martini, the wedge salad, and a steak
Steakhouse · PCH · $$$
Crew: Jamie Patricof
Great brunch, gorgeous pier views, and surfers bobbing in the distance.
Order: Brunch classics — whole-grain pancakes and eggs
American · Malibu Pier · $$
Crew: Jamie Patricof, LA Times, Infatuation, Goop, Conde Nast Traveler
Lines, chaos, and questionable parking, but still the best meal you'll have in Malibu. BYO rosé.
Order: Clam strips (a must), chowder, fish taquitos, crab salad, fried shrimp, fish tacos
Seafood · PCH · $$
Crew: Jamie Patricof, Rachel Halilej, Infatuation, Eater
An essential end-of-the-night stop — it's been around forever and everyone loves it. Just go.
Order: Froyo with the works
Frozen Yogurt · PCH · $
Crew: Jamie Patricof
Yes, it's obvious. Yes, it's expensive. Yes, it's worth it — for the view, the vibe, and the yellowtail jalapeño. Go for lunch and sit outside.
Order: Yellowtail jalapeño
Japanese · Carbon Beach · $$$$
Crew: Jamie Patricof
Casual, fast, and wildly good — a low-key Mediterranean spot perfect for a beach-day lunch.
Order: Pita wraps and hummus
Mediterranean · PCH · $
Crew: Jamie Patricof
"I'm not usually the guy who needs an açai bowl or nitro coffee to feel whole, but SunLife just gets it right." The kids would live off the bowls.
Order: Açai bowls and smoothies
Juice Shop · Cross Creek · $$
Crew: Jamie Patricof
Big portions, group-friendly, and still one of the best spots in town.
Order: All the dips — and order half as much as you think you need
Greek · Civic Center · $$$
Crew: Jamie Patricof, Eater
Good produce, strong coffee, and a surprisingly good tuna melt. Go early Saturday and you'll catch the Varsity Bakers pop-up too.
Order: The tuna melt and a coffee
Farm Stand · Point Dume · $$
Crew: Jamie Patricof
The rare Malibu dinner spot that's actually kid-friendly — there's a playground right next door.
Order: The off-menu penne vodka the kids will love
Italian · Cross Creek · $$$
Crew: Jamie Patricof
Saturday-only bakery pop-up at Thorne Family Farm — the pastries go fast, so get there before noon.
Order: Muffins and pies
Bakery · Point Dume · $$
Crew: Jamie Patricof
