If there is one passion all of our guests share, it is a love for exceptional food. Naturally, the question we hear more than any other is where to book a table along the coast. Our answer always comes down to the same five names: Nobu, Zinqué, Geoffrey’s, Mastro’s Ocean Club, and Clark’s Oyster Bar.
While each caters to a different palate, they all deliver what makes Malibu dining legendary: stellar service, incredible ambiance, stunning coastal views, and more than a fair chance of spotting a celebrity or two. Read on for our complete insider guide to landing a table at these top-rated spots, even on Malibu’s busiest days.
1. Nobu Malibu (Japanese-Peruvian Fine Dining)
Nobu Malibu pairs Chef Nobu Matsuhisa’s signature Japanese-Peruvian cuisine with one of Southern California’s oceanfront dining rooms. It’s as much a destination as it is a restaurant, drawing everyone from locals celebrating special occasions to travelers hoping to catch a sunset and their favorite Hollywood actor. With an overall 4.3-star rating on Google from more than 1,300 reviews, guests consistently praise the top-tier fresh seafood and attentive service staff. Nobu remains one of Malibu’s must-visit restaurants, even with its prices at $150–$250+ per person.
Must-Order Dishes: Yellowtail Jalapeño, Black Cod with Miso, Crispy Rice with Spicy Tuna, Rock Shrimp Tempura, Lobster & Wagyu Tacos.
Booking Tips:
- Reservations: Book 30 days in advance via SevenRooms or OpenTable. A strict 15-minute grace period applies, and lounge walk-ins take 1 to 2 hours.
- Seating: Patio requests depend on weather and daily availability and are not guaranteed.
- Parking: Valet only. Arrive 15 to 20 minutes early for PCH queues between 5:30 PM and 7:30 PM.
3. Geoffrey’s (California Coastal Cuisine)
Setting international cuisine aside, Geoffrey’s puts Malibu itself on the menu with fresh seafood, prime steaks, and Pacific views from every table since 1983. Geoffrey’s averages around 4.3/5 across major review platforms, with diners giving high marks to its unparalleled views, quality seafood, and attentive staff, particularly during special occasions. While some reviews mention food inconsistencies, crowded tables, and unmet seating requests, the praise far outweighs the criticism – especially when the experience can end with a romantic stroll along nearby Escondido Beach, where dolphins and the occasional whale may steal the spotlight from Malibu’s usual celebrity sightings.
Must-Order Dishes: Ahi Tuna Tartare, Baked Brie in Puff Pastry, Jumbo Coconut Shrimp, Sautéed Day Boat Sea Scallops, Herb Crusted Salmon, Geoffrey’s Surf ‘n’ Turf, Pan-Seared Chilean Sea Bass, Geoffrey’s Paella, Maine Lobster Cobb Salad, Warm Brioche Bread Pudding, Chocolate Hazelnut Crunch Bars
Booking Tips:
- Reservations: Book ahead especially Fri–Sun, weekend brunch, sunset, and special occasions. Walk-ins are possible but risky during peak hours. Request ocean-view seating when booking; weekday lunch is typically easier. Groups under 13 should call (310) 457-1519; parties of 12+ can submit an event request.
- Seating: Full table service with ocean views; outdoor seating available. Dining is generally limited to 2 hours.
- Parking: $15 valet; limited street parking along PCH. The valet lot is small, so allow extra time.
Restaurant information:
- Phone: (310) 457-1519
- Hours: Mon–Fri 11:30 AM–3 PM; Sat–Sun brunch 10 AM–3 PM; dinner Sun–Thu 4–8:30 PM, Fri–Sat 4–9 PM
- Reservations: Official Site | OpenTable
4. Mastro’s Ocean Club (Steakhouse and Seafood)
For a more sophisticated take on steak and seafood, Mastro’s Ocean Club makes dinner an occasion. Tables along the oversized windows sit remarkably close to the shoreline, putting the crashing waves almost beside your plate. The menu leans into indulgence with premium steaks, Japanese A5 Wagyu, Maine lobster, king crab, Chilean sea bass, and caviar, with their famous Warm Butter Cake worth saving room for. With a 4.4/5 Google rating from 2,400+ reviews, Mastro’s earns consistent praise for its food and attentive service. Save this one for anniversaries, milestone dinners, a proper night out, or simply a taste of what one reviewer called a “seaside heaven.”
Must-Order Dishes: Seafood Tower, Crispy Garlic Bigeye Tuna Sashimi, 22 oz Bone-In Ribeye, Roasted Garlic Jumbo Black Tiger Prawns, Lobster Mashed Potatoes, White Cheddar Lobster Mac & Cheese, Brussels Sprouts with Nueske’s Bacon, Signature Warm Butter Cake
Booking Tips:
- Reservations: Reservations are highly recommended, especially Fri–Sun, sunset, and special occasions. Walk-ins are welcome when available but risky at peak hours. Request a window table for the best ocean views. Private dining offers several room and terrace options for groups.
- Seating: Full table service in the main dining room with ocean-facing windows. Private dining ranges from intimate 12–28 guest rooms with special features; the main dining room can accommodate up to 120 guests.
- Parking: Valet available (around $17; subject to change). Limited free street parking may be available along PCH.
Restaurant information:
- Phone: (310) 454-4357
- Hours: Mon–Thu 5–9 PM; Fri 5–10 PM; Sat 11 AM–2:30 PM & 4–10 PM; Sun 11 AM–2:30 PM & 4–9 PM. Weekend brunch is 11 AM–2:30 PM.
- Reservations: Official Site | OpenTable
5. Clark’s Oyster Bar (American Seafood and Raw Bar)
Clark’s Oyster Bar is the new kid on Malibu’s dining block, bringing its Austin-born seafood concept to town in 2025. There’s no oceanfront view, but what it lacks in waves, it makes up for in style: a modern, yacht-club-inspired interior, mountain-facing patio, lively raw bar, and glowing saltwater aquarium make it decidedly Instagrammable.
Clark’s is off to a strong start, averaging around 4.6/5 across major review platforms, and with diners raving about freshly shucked oysters, lobster rolls, crudo, martinis, and attentive service. The burger has even earned a following of its own, which is unexpected for an oyster bar. Barely a year in, Clark’s is already giving Malibu’s longtime favorites some fresh competition.
Must-Order Dishes: Freshly Shucked Oysters (11+ varieties), Lobster Roll, Signature Clark’s Burger & Fries, Daily Crudo, Wood-Grilled Oysters, New England Clam Chowder, Caviar Service, Cold Martinis
Booking Tips:
- Reservations: Highly recommended for weekends and dinner. Walk-ins are welcomed at the raw bar. Same-day table openings often pop up online around 10 AM. Groups of 6+ must book directly via phone or email.
- Seating: Book the patio for mountain views or an indoor booth near the aquarium. Start with martinis and fresh sourdough before moving to oysters, crudo, and lobster rolls, or walk in for full menu service directly at the interactive raw bar counter.
- Parking: Valet and self-parking available at Cross Creek Ranch; Street parking on Cross Creek Road and Tesla chargers behind the plaza.
Restaurant information:
- Phone: (310) 879-8508
- Hours: Daily Lunch 11:30 AM–3:00 PM; Mon–Fri Mid-Day 3:00–5:00 PM; Sun–Thu Dinner 4:00–9:00 PM; Fri–Sat Dinner 4:00–10:00 PM.
- Reservations: Official Site | OpenTable
FAQs: Best Restaurants in Malibu
1. What are the best restaurants in Malibu in 2026?
Top Malibu restaurants include Nobu Malibu, Zinqué, Geoffrey’s, Mastro’s Ocean Club, and Clark’s Oyster Bar, covering fine dining, seafood, steak, French-inspired fare, and raw bars.
2. Which Malibu restaurants have the best ocean views?
Geoffrey’s, Mastro’s, and Nobu stand out. Geoffrey’s offers panoramic Pacific views, Mastro’s sits remarkably close to the waves, and Nobu pairs oceanfront dining with Japanese-Peruvian cuisine.
3. What are the best Malibu restaurants for a romantic dinner?
Choose Geoffrey’s for romantic date nights, Mastro’s for a formal occasion, or Nobu for a luxury dinner by the Pacific.
4. Do you need reservations at Malibu restaurants?
Yes, especially Friday–Sunday, sunset, and holidays. Nobu often requires advance planning, while Geoffrey’s and Mastro’s are also best booked early. Zinqué and Clark’s offer more walk-in flexibility.
5. What is the best time to dine in Malibu?
Sunset is the most popular for oceanfront dining. For easier reservations and fewer crowds, try weekday lunch or an early dinner.
