The Malibu Times is proud to present “The Face of Malibu,” a unique ongoing monthly series featuring a portrait sketch painted by portrait artist Johanna Spinks, highlighting the modern day face of Malibu. Spinks’ aim is to paint people from all walks of life in a single live sitting at her Malibu studio, their unique life story told through her award-winning portrait eye, accompanied by a written profile. Spinks also teaches classes in portrait painting. Tune in to see who is painted next in Malibu. The Malibu Times also invites readers to nominate people they feel are of special interest.
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Even with its many celebrities, Lily Castro might be Malibu’s most famous resident. Lily’s Café on Point Dume has been a favorite Malibu landmark for over 23 years. Lily arrived in town when she was 18 years old along with her husband, Abel, and her daughter, Lindsi. Taking ownership of what was originally Sten’s Pastries, they turned the establishment into one of the most popular cafes in town. Regular customers have been showing up each morning for decades.
“When they don’t come, I worry! I start to call and ask, ‘Where are you?’” she says. “It’s not just my work, it’s my social life, it’s my everything.” Crowds line up all day long for Lily’s delicious, homemade food—especially her signature breakfast burritos.
What do you like most about working in Malibu?
The people. I have known the people for years. And the weather. At seven every morning when I come to work I have people waiting for me—ready for breakfast burritos!
What would you like to see changed in Malibu?
I love the way it is. I don’t like changes too much. I like the old Malibu but everything has to change.
What about Malibu upsets you?
The traffic in summer time.
What is your favorite thing to do in Malibu?
Walk along the ocean. Sometimes I bring my dogs on Sundays and I’ll stop on my way home to see the sunset and listen to the waves.
What made you want to open a business in Malibu?
This was a donut shop that I got from my sister. Abel and I decided to make a restaurant: burritos and tacos. We started little by little, step by step, and now we’re famous!
What’s your favorite thing on the menu?
The breakfast burritos!
How was getting your portrait painted by Johanna?
Fun! I love it! She made me so pretty! It was a nice experience—I’ve never gotten painted before.
How do you see Malibu’s future?
Big change. It’s not old fashioned anymore. It’s new and modern. I’m happy. I will be here forever because people support me and I know everybody, and they love Lily’s.
To learn more about Johanna Spinks’ Fine art, featuring classical heirloom family and corporate portraiture, visit www.johannaspinks.com. Email: johanna@johannaspinks.com.
