ICONIC MALIBU INN REOPENS

For years, the famed Malibu Inn looked like a seedy watering hole along Pacific Coast Highway, but it has now been revamped and re-launched and has become a great Malibu destination for drinks, a satisfying and hearty meal, and a plain old good time.

Established in 1920, the original Malibu Inn quickly became known as Malibu’s chosen watering hole and host to Hollywood royalty, including Harold Lloyd and Gloria Swanson. In 1951, the Malibu Inn was moved eastward to its present location across from the Malibu Pier on PCH. Rocker Neil Young owned the beachside restaurant and bar for a while, then known as the Crazy Horse Saloon. Young’s legendary rock stature transformed the Malibu Inn, and included live performances from the likes of Eric Clapton, Tom Petty, and Kid Rock.

Now under the ownership of brothers Alex and Steven Hakim, with Top Chef All-Stars alum and restaurateur, Angelo Sosa, to collaborate in crafting a simple and delicious American menu. the legendary beachfront property offers great food, fun cocktails and live entertainment.

"We are extremely excited to reopen the Malibu Inn and are aware of the sentimental place that it holds in many people’s lives," co-owner Alex Hakim said.

“We believe the new Malibu Inn will exceed people's expectations and reclaim its position as one of Malibu’s most coveted destinations,” co-owner Steven Hakim added.

The new menu is both serious and fun and includes everything from Popcorn Shrimp to Smoked Pork Ribs served with Smack & Cheese. Local specialties include California Coast Mussels, Malibu Sliders, Lobster Roll and Grilled Swordfish with Green Olives and Tomato Tapenade.

During our recent visit we sat under the stars at the Inn’s wonderful outdoor patio. You can’t ask for a better setting to enjoy a beautiful California summer night. Several of the menu’s refreshing specialty cocktails, priced at $11 a piece, were enjoyed. They included The Surf Rider, made with Hendrick’s Gin, St. Germain, Meyer Lemon, Fresh Sour; Pain Killer, made with Pusser’s Rum, Pineapple Juice, Orange Juice, Cream of Coconut, Fresh Grated Nutmeg; White Sangria made with Absolut Vodka, Cruzan Rum, Conitreau, White Cranberry Juice, “Lulu B” Pinot Grigio, Green Apple, Fresh Peach and Orange Slice; Rock Candy Lemonade made with Absolut Citron, Fresh Lemon Juice, Rock Candy Syrup, Lemon Candy Cane; Mango Mojito made with Cruzan Mango Rum, Muddled Mint, Fresh Mango, Rock Candy Syrup; and The Crazy Horse, made with Patron Silver, Citronage, Fresh Lime Juice, Muddled Cucumber and Spicy Sambal. We opted against the popular Beer in a Bag, which is a 24-ounce Pabst Blue Ribbon in a brown paper bag with a shot of Jack Daniels. Do be warned about drinking and driving. Malibu cops are notorious for busting toasted drivers along PCH.

Serving tasty American fare we started with the spicy Chilled Gazpacho made with watermelon and cilantro. Not being the world’s biggest fan of gazpacho I did find this dish to be very refreshing. As a fun item we tried the Cheesy Tots, made with Yokun Gold potatoes and cheese. Not a very healthy choice but fun nonetheless.

Keeping the fried appetizer motif going we went with the Popcorn Shrimp served with house-made cocktail sauce, a definite table favorite. Another great starter item are the tasty and tangy Buffalo Soldiers made with organic chicken wings, spicy red-hot glaze, and served with Roquefort cream dipping sauce. These are mouthwatering and will have you licking your fingers clean.

A favorite were the Fish Tacos, prepared with Tilapia, served with house-made tortillas, creamy guacamole and cilantro. Perfect with a beer as you relax next to the wonderful Malibu Beach. Looking for heartier fare, definitely give the Malibu Sliders a try. They come served with proprietary vintage beef blend and your choice of cheese. Another satisfying and filling item are the Signature Smoked Short Ribs, prepared with a cocoa rub and mole bbq. The meat falls right off the bone and you’ll be sure to lick your plate clean.

Destined to be a beach local’s favorite hangout spot once again, it’s also a great choice for anyone looking to get out of the rat race and head outside the crazy city limits.

The Malibu Inn is located at 22969 Pacific Coast Hwy in Malibu and is open daily serving lunch, dinner and late food from 11 a.m. to 2 a.m. Call 310-456-1160.

 

 

Photography courtesy of The Malibu Inn