The moment you enter through the glass front doors of the “World Famous Malibu Inn,” greeted by a cheerful hostess who welcomes you with a smile, you are immediately drawn into the legendary landmark that was established in the 1920s.
The Malibu Inn may look pretty much the same on the outside, but owners and brothers Steven and Alex Hakim have completely revamped the historic restaurant, which boasts a menu designed by “Top Chef” contestant Angelo Sosa and a retro rock ‘n’ roll vibe derived from its roots.
Redesigned by the acclaimed Andrew Alford, the inside offers an old-school interior complete with hand-painted surfboards on the finished wood walls and modern light fixtures, setting the mood for a kickback California atmosphere that caters to both the local surfer and the Harley Davison Motorcycle rider alike.
The renovations were done in a way that the character of the building stayed intact, General Manager Marcus Sumner said.
“Every room you go in to has a memory and a story to go along with it,” he said. “The hardest part of the renovation process was making sure we didn’t destroy any of the classic artwork or beautiful woodwork.”
A 1966 Volkswagen Beetle that has been restored and turned into a photo booth accompanies a full bar on the outside patio, which offers a creative list of signature spirits including the Pain Killer, Rock Candy Lemonade and Beer in a Bag, which comes in a brown paper bag accompanied by a shot of Jack Daniels Whiskey, making it a local’s favorite for an after work-drink.
“The Malibu Inn has given locals a place to call their own,” Sumner said. “We made it a point to hire locals and we continue to support local musicians.”
Hanging flat screen televisions combined with a full list of draft beers make it an ideal spot for watching the NBA playoffs or meeting friends to view a fall football game.
Even the women’s restroom is enticing, with walls lined in wallpaper that shows images of tan, shirtless, muscular men, and pink sidewalk chalk for leaving your mark on stalls.
What was once exclusively a live entertainment scene with a limited number of bites is now a new and improved local hang with a vintage vibe and an extensive menu.
“Sosa has really come up with a menu that complements what the Malibu Inn has been known for over the years, which is still great burgers, crisp salads, tasty soups and smoked meats,” Sumner said.
Comprised of myriad dishes, the most popular being the Deep Fried Peanut Butter and Jelly Sandwich made with crunchy peanut butter and strawberry jam that is hand-dipped in waffle batter and fried, the new menu sets the stage for a taste-oriented hotspot.
Smaller plates such as the divinely moist signature smoked beef short ribs that are rubbed in cocoa with a palatable mole barbecue sauce and California Coast Mussels that come floating in a light garlic broth, topped with fennel, are rich in flavor and perfect for snacking.
The menu also features fresh salads including the Tomato and Burrata Salad, which boasts a generous portion of the delightfully creamy cheese and tomatoes that taste like they were just pulled off the vine, drizzled with olive oil and a rich vinaigrette.
With main courses that include gourmet Fish Tacos made with homemade tortillas and served with creamy guacamole, and a collection of burgers including the Highway to Hell, which comes topped with pickles, smoked tomatoes, jalapenos and a chipotle mayo that gives it a fiery kick, there is something here for everyone. But be sure to save room for dessert.
The diverse dessert menu includes a rich brownie à la mode drizzled with sweet caramel sauce and sprinkled with chocolate malt ball pieces for an added crunch that comes with a sweet bonus-a milkshake shot-making it perfect for any chocolate aficionado.
If you like brunch, Executive Chef Raymond Alavarez makes Huevos Rancheros, but instead of tortillas, he places fried eggs on a manchego pupusa, and serves it with black beans, salsa roja and verde.
While the food is definitely worth a visit, if you want to really go back in time, the Malibu Inn still offers up musical fare with locals such Schwayze and Cisco Adler, among others. Also, don’t forget Happy Hour, Mondays through Fridays, 4 p.m. to 7 p.m., with half priced appetizers, draft beer, house wine and well cocktails.
More information can be obtained at www.themalibuinn.com