The Outdoor Cafe In Southern California That Is The Prettiest Place To Enjoy A Warm Afternoon
By Natasha Kayes|Published June 26, 2024
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Natasha Kayes
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I was born and raised in sunny Southern California and will never tire of the West Coast, although I spent several years living in Southeast Asia, about as far from California as you can get. Wherever I am in the world, I love straying from the beaten path, experiencing local life, and discovering hidden gems - camera in hand. The beach is my happy place and when I am not there (or writing), you will usually find me baking, watching movies, and cuddling my pugs. I have traveled around the country and around the world, and it never, ever gets old. Being able to combine my passion for travel and my love of writing is nothing short of a dream.
When the weather is warm, I am a huge fan of al fresco dining. A beautiful outdoor setting just makes me happy, and I’m pretty sure it makes the food taste better (is it just me?). If you have ever driven down Pacific Coast Highway through Malibu, you have probably passed the Malibu Sport Fishing Pier without giving it much thought. That was me for a long time – in fact, I drove by dozens of times without realizing this lovely waterfront cafe in Malibu, CA, even existed!
Malibu Farm is actually two restaurants on the pier - Malibu Farm Restaurant is a full-service eatery located at the beginning of the pier while Malibu Farm Cafe is a counter-service and self-seating spot all the way at the end of the pier.
Both restaurants offer farm-to-table dining with some of the most amazing views in town.
The Cafe is a bit more casual, ideal for a lazy summer afternoon. It is open until 4 p.m. Monday through Thursday, 5 p.m. on Friday, and 8 p.m. on the weekends. If you prefer taking in the view from inside, you can choose to sit in the airy dining room. On warm days, the open windows bring sea breezes in without worrying about getting too much sun.
But the pier itself is, in my opinion, the best dining area when the weather is nice. Enjoy your meal outdoors in one of the seating areas around the cafe buildings.
At the Cafe, breakfast is served all day until 4 p.m. and the menu is divine. Try the Swedish mini-pancakes, the Surfers Rancheros, or the Breakfast Burrito! They also have delicious Vegan Banana Pancakes.
The lunch offerings are as good as they look and feature fresh, local ingredients. The lunch menu offers a variety of sandwiches, burgers, and rolls including a Grilled Shrimp Burger, Skirt Steak Sandwich, Bacon Corn Panini, and lots of other options. I say keep coming back and try it all.
Outside the Cafe, you will find this gorgeous fresh cocktail bar that's sure to inspire a fun and relaxing afternoon. Don't feel limited by these offerings, though; there is a full bar as well as a nice little selection of beer and wine.
You can also order fresh juices and quite a long list of coffee and tea drinks. The full espresso bar menu includes a Honey Latte, Vietnamese Coffee, Cold Brew, Ube Latte, and all of the standard espresso offerings. If coffee is not your thing, there are just as many tea options, including lemon ginger, chai, coconut camomile, strawberry matcha, and more.
If you choose to dine at the full-service restaurant, the outdoor space is gorgeous and perfect if you plan to come later in the afternoon or for dinner. The glass wall offers a little protection from evening breezes and the entire patio has heaters and pretty lights.
The restaurant serves breakfast until 11:30 a.m., lunch after noon, and dinner until 8 p.m.
If you love the coast like I do, this is one of the prettiest places to spend an afternoon (or several) this summer. Have you enjoyed dining on the Malibu pier? Find out more about this waterfront cafe in Malibu, CA, on the Malibu Farm website or Facebook page. For another summer day of wonderful Malibu food, wine, and scenery, check out this Malibu Wineries Private Tour.
