Leigh's Tip

Discover a haven for foodies and shoppers alike: this gem boasts ample parking and an array of boutiques to peruse before or after your meal. Indulge in the finest Greek cuisine, perfect for both lunch and dinner. On weekends, immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere with live music and mesmerizing belly dancers. Tucked away from the bustling main square, its lively patio is a hotspot not to be missed.

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This quintessential local haunt, right across from the ocean, is Malibu Seafood. Owned and operated by commercial fishermen, they bring you the finest seafood from around the globe. This well-loved shack features simple patio dining where you can enjoy some of the best seafood in Malibu. Don't miss the hand-battered Alaskan cod, clam chowder, and coleslaw, all prepared daily. They also offer food to-go if you prefer to eat elsewhere. Additionally, their fish market allows you to purchase fresh seafood to cook at home.

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At the start of the pier, there's a full-service restaurant, while at the end, you'll find counter service. Malibu Farm also caters and hosts private events, boasting some of the best water views around! And ask for a northside view so you can watch the longboarders surf at the famous 1st point.

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Their creative menu features sandwiches, salads, soups, and homemade juices, with exciting weekly specials. Order at the counter and savor your healthy meal on the outdoor patio. Parking is available at the country mart.

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Leigh's Tip

Experience the pinnacle of California dining at this renowned restaurant, where top-tier sushi meets unparalleled coastal ambiance. Reservations are essential and should be made well in advance, as this hotspot fills up quickly. For the ultimate dining experience, aim for a sunset reservation to savor both exquisite cuisine and breathtaking views.

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Upon entering the hotel, you'll step into a welcoming foyer leading to a back patio overlooking the ocean—a serene spot for sunset viewing. Whether families or couples, everyone enjoys the patio's ambiance. Reservations are essential and can be made online, and valet parking is offered at $10 for the first 3 hours with validation.

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This iconic Malibu restaurant specializes in California cuisine, offering stunning sunset views right by the water. With an unenclosed dining room, guests can enjoy panoramic views of the sea from every angle. Popular for weekday lunches and brunches, the menu features seafood, steaks, brie-in-puff pastry, and miso-braised tofu. Ideal for date nights, the restaurant also accommodates large parties with customizable prix fixe menus.

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You don't have to venture far from the market to savor exquisite Italian cuisine. Tra Di Noi is a culinary gem known for its delectable dishes like crudo tonno and pan-fried zucchini blossoms, but it truly shines with its homemade pasta. Crafted fresh daily with locally sourced ingredients, each bite is a testament to quality and flavor. With over 500 wines to complement your meal, including selections from California, Italy, and France, the dining experience is elevated to perfection. Plus, it's a pet-friendly spot where you can dine on the patio and keep an eye on your kids playing in the adjacent playground, nestled right in the heart of the country mart.

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Offering a delightful array of breakfast and brunch options, including pastries, gelato, olives, deli items, cheeses, and hot dishes, it's a haven for food enthusiasts. With a bustling atmosphere and a menu boasting over 1,200 dishes, patrons can indulge in favorites like lattes, chocolate chip cookies, short rib sandwiches, and chicken Milanese. Convenient street parking is available, and the café shares the block with popular spots like Alfred Coffee, McConnell's Fine Ice Cream, and the stylish boutique Jill Roberts. No reservations are needed or accepted, inviting guests to simply drop in and enjoy the vibrant culinary experience.

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Their breakfast menu features a standout signature omelet, perfectly crafted croissants, and a stellar Mec Muffin. Don't miss out on the French butter for an extra touch of flavor. Solo diners can comfortably enjoy the bar area, and while reservations are recommended, walk-ins are also accommodated, especially at the bar. Parking options include valet at the back or street parking nearby.

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In the Valley, Kiwami is renowned for its exceptional sushi, making it a go-to spot, particularly for lunch. Offering both patio and interior dining, it's a favorite among Radford/Universal studio executives and parents from nearby private schools. The bento box is a popular choice, providing a variety of sushi, rolls, and sashimi for the best value and assortment. For those in the know, the "honey hand roll," not listed on the menu, is a must-try, featuring a soy paper-wrapped roll with baked crab and other tasty ingredients. While valet parking is available, street parking is rare. Nearby, an outdoor shopping center boasts a range of shops and eateries like Trader Joe’s, Mendocino Farms, Sephora, Blue Bottle Coffee, and Pinkberry. It's wise to make reservations ahead of time to secure your spot at this consistently satisfying sushi destination.

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When detoxing is on the agenda, SunCafe is the ultimate destination, offering a blend of optimal health and nutrition. Their plant-based, dairy-free menu features house-made cheeses, chorizo, butter, and mayo. The restaurant, nestled away from the street, boasts an inviting outdoor patio that surpasses the interior in ambiance. Don't miss their incredible smoothies, especially the must-try Shamrock smoothie. Surprisingly, they also serve alcohol. Conveniently located near Universal City Walk, SunCafe usually welcomes walk-ins.

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The kale Caesar salad and deviled eggs are must-tries, plus the flatbreads and cocktails are fantastic. The food is excellent overall. There's convenient self-parking nearby; just remember to get validated if you stay too long. Reservations are highly recommended. Located right off the freeway, the Front Yard gives off an Ojai, CA vibe with its indoor/outdoor dining spaces, fountain, and trees, making it a perfect spot for lunch or dinner before heading to Universal Studios or Warner Brothers.

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Firefly is a beloved dinner spot in the valley, perfect for a romantic evening out. Its expansive back patio exudes European charm, making diners feel like they've stumbled upon a hidden gem in Studio City. The ambiance is top-notch, with romantic lighting and roaring fires adding to the allure. Not to mention, the wine list is impressive, and the food is superb. With different vibes in each space, from the outdoor patio to the cozy interior and the casual library setting, Firefly offers something for everyone. Reservations are a must, and don't forget to specify your preferred seating area. Plus, valet parking adds to the convenience of the experience.

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Lala, nestled in a strip mall, offers convenient valet service and easy access. It beautifully blends Californian and Argentinian cuisines, making it perfect for a casual meal. Their extensive menu features favorites like steak, French fries, and must-try empanadas—opt for the combo plate to sample them all. The restaurant's ample size typically ensures you can snag a table even at the last minute.

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If you want to celebrity watch and shop where much of young Hollywood does, head to Mauro’s Cafe at Fred Segal on Melrose Ave. for lunch. And be prepared to enjoy a small but simple, light, well-curated menu overseen by Evelyn, a lovely French woman who has run the restaurant for years.

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If you want to experience a little of France while in LA, Republique offers a gastronomic environment imbued with history and grandeur. The historic space features a casual bakery, café, and bar in the front with a more formal dining area located in the rear, serving a French-inspired menu created daily. You wait in line to order and then are given a number for your table. You must get the French bread and French butter.

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At Cecconi’s, Soho House Members and Soho Friends enjoy priority booking and a generous 20% discount on all food and beverages Sunday through Wednesday evenings. The ambiance seamlessly transitions from a cozy outdoor patio with a bistro vibe to a more sophisticated interior, though it can get a bit noisy, especially at night. For a more intimate gathering, there's a private room available. Breakfast and brunch shine here, accompanied by excellent drinks. While service may vary, landing an attentive waiter or waitress ensures a golden experience. Don't forget to valet park and grab your validation!

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Grandmaster Recorders on Cahuenga, once a legendary recording studio from the 70s and 80s, now offers a modern dining experience that's both a treat for the senses and a trip through musical history. By day, indulge in delectable cuisine in this iconic space; come nightfall, witness its transformation into a vibrant dance club. And don't miss out on the rooftop views! A must-try? The unforgettable caviar cannoli that'll leave your taste buds dancing.

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The ambiance exudes coziness, boasting rustic furniture, fireplaces, and a brick patio adorned with olive trees. Inside, you'll find a spacious bar, a charming wood-covered dining area, and an impressive wine room upstairs, curated by Caroline Styne, a James Beard Award-winning expert. Indulge in their exceptional cocktail selection and acclaimed wine list featuring sustainable, organic, and biodynamic wines. The kitchen's commitment to fresh produce shines through in dishes like the brunch-time beef cheesesteak sandwich with mushrooms and Comté along with the tart marinated olives. Opt for small plates such as endive with smoked whitefish and apple dressed in kumquat-Meyer lemon cream or hanger steak with red wine butter.

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Discover the captivating history of Malibu and its iconic Spanish tile at The Adamson House. Immerse yourself in the original architecture and delve into the legacy of the Adamson family, pioneers of Southern California's tile manufacturing. Admire their craftsmanship displayed in the intricate tile work and furnishings, integral to Malibu's cultural fabric. While parking may pose a slight challenge, a short walk from a nearby shopping center grants access to this cultural gem. Consider bringing a picnic to savor amidst the picturesque grounds, making The Adamson House a must-visit for art and design enthusiasts alike.

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This Malibu beach is a personal favorite, offering both relaxation and adventure. Enjoy a picnic atop the hill or catch some waves while surfing. Accessible via a steep staircase, the beach boasts hidden caves in its cliffs to explore. Keep an eye out for playful dolphins in the water. Though there's a parking fee, it grants access to essential amenities like public restrooms, making it a worthwhile investment.

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Paradise Cove Beach offers a secluded experience compared to El Matador, with the convenience of Paradise Cove Beach Café nearby, serving standard beach fare. Seagulls frequent the area due to the food, so expect their presence. Aloha Beach Camp for kids operates from here, boasting qualified staff and safety measures. Parking at the beach lot requires dining at the restaurant; otherwise, it's $45 or $65, depending on the day. Alternatively, park along PCH and walk down to the beach, allowing for a scenic stroll to nearby beaches like Little Dume and Dume Beach in about thirty minutes.

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Nestled along the famed Carbon Beach, Malibu Country Mart is a must-visit spot for lunch or a leisurely half-day excursion. Spanning six scenic acres, this destination boasts ample free parking spread across expansive lots on Cross Creek Road and Civic Center Way. Its allure lies in a harmonious fusion of upscale boutiques, alfresco dining, and a serene ambiance, making it a favorite haunt for locals and tourists alike. Indulge in a diverse culinary journey ranging from casual bites like smoothies, salads, and sandwiches to sumptuous steak dinners. Beyond shopping and dining, the mart offers a range of services including pet grooming, spa treatments, and specialized therapies. And for those seeking a caffeine fix, familiar names like Alfred’s and Starbucks stand ready to serve. Whether you're in the mood for retail therapy, a gourmet meal, or simply unwinding amidst Malibu's coastal charm, Malibu Country Mart promises an experience where casual and fine living converge seamlessly.

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A bustling Sunday morning hotspot awaits, perfect for those eager to whip up a delightful Sunday dinner. What sets this market apart is its noble cause—part of its proceeds support animal rescue, wildlife preservation, environmental initiatives, and children’s eco-education. Here, you'll discover the finest seasonal produce, sourced directly from local organic farms, alongside delectable pastries and snacks from small, family-owned enterprises. And don't miss the charming selection of freshly picked flowers. Keep your eyes peeled, as you might even catch sight of some beloved celebrities indulging in their favorite finds. Plus, ample parking ensures a hassle-free experience.

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Embark on a scenic adventure starting just off the Pacific Coast Highway, where a 0.75-mile uphill trek along Winding Way leads to Escondido Canyon Park. En route, marvel at the picturesque Malibu homes dotting the landscape. The nearly 4-mile round-trip trail offers two destinations: Lower Escondido Falls, ideal for casual hikers, and Upper Escondido Falls, favored by the more adventurous for its stunning vistas. Cap off your journey with a captivating Instagram-worthy moment beneath the cascading waters—a truly breathtaking finale to an unforgettable hike.

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One of my favorite hidden gems in the valley, Pampered Foot offers both pain relief and relaxation. Despite its unassuming location in a strip mall, it underwent a transformation during the pandemic, becoming clean, comfortable, and budget-friendly. Each bed provides privacy in the open-air space. Nearby, Spice Season offers delicious Thai food and refreshing Thai iced tea.

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A must-visit wellness spot in LA for both locals and globe-trotting influencers. The therapists are highly skilled and well-trained. The chic environment draws inspiration from nature, featuring natural wood surfaces, exposed beams, sheepskins, rawhides, cactus galleries, and crystal grids. Street parking is available for convenience.

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For convenient one-stop shopping and iPhone repairs, head to Westfield Mall, situated on the Studio City edge, technically in Sherman Oaks. Discover a range of stores including Bloomingdales, Macy’s, Apple, Lush, clothing boutiques, a beauty supply, Starbucks, and a hair and nail salon. Enjoy ample free parking without needing a ticket, along with a Bank of America ATM at the entrance. Don't miss the excellent Brow Bar on the first floor for quick threading services.

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Discover an abundance of fresh veggies, fruits, flowers, and delicious street food at this vibrant farmers market. While parking can be a challenge, keep an eye out for signs indicating designated parking areas usually reserved for office and studio employees. The market offers a taste of France with its outdoor market atmosphere, reminiscent of strolling through local markets. Arrive early to beat the summer heat and enjoy a cool morning experience. Keep your eyes peeled for celebrities enjoying pony rides, inflatables, and the fantastic food and produce, making it a delightful experience for all. Don't miss out on this fabulous 3-4 block long Sunday market.

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Wrap up your day beautifully with a leisurely stroll around this iconic landmark, offering stunning city views and picnic spots. Remember to bring your car and be mindful of parking signs. Optimal parking is along the side of the road near the Greek Theater for access to hiking trails leading up to the observatory.

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Experience one of the most delightful shopping and dining destinations, offering a fantastic array of options. Indulge in a gourmet cup of coffee at Go Get ‘Em Tiger or savor the insane baguette sandwiches and gourmet goods at Larchmont Wine and Cheese. Discover great men's classic pieces at Buck Mason. Don't forget to visit Larchmont Beauty Center for all your toiletry needs and more.

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Indulge in something luxurious with a head spa at Blow Me Away, a fantastic full-service Japanese hair salon. And for the little ones, don't forget to experience the joy of a trolley ride!

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