Lino’s makes locals feel like one of their own
By Kim Devore / Staff Writer
Located next to the historic old Malibu courthouse on the 2100 block of Pacific Coast Highway, was once one of the prettiest restaurants in Malibu. With its classic Malibu tiles, the stunning peacock fountain, colorful ceramic floors and 1920s style touches, the place is reminiscent of that other local architectural gem -the Adamson House. It was once a favorite celebrity stop called Georgio Malibu. But when Georgio shut its doors, the place went dark collecting dust for years.
Today, the beautiful little eatery is bopping once again thanks to husband and wife team Lino and Sam Savoia.
Growing up outside of Rome, Italy Lino began his kitchen career cooking for his brother and sister, and went on to work in restaurants around the world.
In 1987, he landed in Los Angeles together with his two best friends. For years, the trio operated the popular eatery Café Delfini on West Channel Road in Santa Monica. Delfini was a great start, but Lino and wife Sam always hoped to have a place of their own.
“We had lived in Malibu for seven years,” the proprietress said. “Our kids went to school here. Having a restaurant together was always our dream.’
The dream came true one day last year when they saw a for lease sign on the building.
“We always loved the place. We loved the originality of it. We loved the fountain. We loved the uniqueness of it sam said.”
Luckily, the landlord was no stranger to the Café Delfini chef.
“He knew of Lino’s reputation. We came in to meet him and had the kids with us. I think he liked that. He really wanted a family in there she said.”
All summer long the couple labored to bring the place back to life. And getting the place into shape was no easy task.
“The outside was totally overgrown. I physically cut back the trees. I worked with the painters,” Sam recalled. “Lino designed the kitchen and we cooked for months trying to come up with the menu.”
They also gave the place a bit of a facelift. They moved the outdoor bathroom inside, brought in a full bar and created a sleek comfy space on the outdoor patio.
“We wanted to have an informal area where it would be comfortable to lounge and not necessarily feel like you have to have a full meal sam said.”
In addition to nightly specials, traditional pastas and a juicy Kobe beef burger, Lino’s has a selection of smaller bites including smoked mozzarella with sliced tomatoes and balsamic reduction, chicken endive wraps spiked with Asian flavors and a delicious cheese and olive platter.
When they opened in September, Lino’s became an immediate hit with locals hungry for a good dining option on this side of town.
Lino and Sam have created a loyal following as a top neighborhood spot that counts A-listers like the Arquettes, Ewan McGregor and The Edge among its regulars.
“We have a nice steady clientele. I think people are drawn to the space and the friendly environment.”
In addition to Lino in the kitchen and Sam up front, customers frequently find little Giacomo and Lila Savoia pitching in with a helping hand.
For many Malibuites, Lino’s is the perfect family-run hands-on neighborhood eatery.
“We wouldn’t dream of bringing in someone to manage,” Lino Savoia said. “We’re here every night.”
And their hard work seems to be paying off.
“We like to make people feel at home. That’s what we do best.”