Celebrities and other Malibu residents alike enjoy hanging out at the historical Malibu Inn.
By Kim Devore / Staff Writer
It’s one of the oldest buildings in Malibu, one you’ll see in faded black and white photos that date back to the beachside city’s earliest days. Located just across from the pier, the Malibu Inn opened in 1923 as a coffee house and general store. “It was one of the first businesses in Malibu,” says General Manager Holly Padias. “It served people who were in the community back then, like workers at the Adamson House.”
Today The Malibu Inn still draws a crowd and not just for the joe. “It’s a great place to come in an grab a bite or pull up a stool and enjoy a drink,” says Padias. “We have a real “Cheers” type of bar where everyone knows your name.” Padias practically grew up at the Inn. She started off as a waitress while attending Pepperdine University and worked her way up to GM. “It’s a great place to work. I’ve met so many interesting people with interesting stories.” And whether its Adam Sandler, Cindy Crawford, Ben Stiller or the Hudson clan, you never know who you’ll bump into.
More than the restaurant and bar, the Inn is one of the few places in Malibu where you can just kick and enjoy live music. It’s been the site of surprise performances and special guest appearances and not just from famous local folk like Gary Busey. Rock icon Tom Petty has been known to get up on the stage as well as Black Crowes frontman Chris Robinson. As Padias puts it, “There’ve been some crazy nights here.”
As for scheduled appearances, the Inn has come a long way. Not long ago you had to trek into town to see acts like Leon Russell or Taj Mahal. Now you just need to drive down the street.
The Inn is also a showcase for local bands like Whitestar, 2-Cents and Face Humper as well as up and coming acts. “We had a battle of the bands for Malibu High,” Padias explains. “The winner could open for a show. It’s great experience and great exposure.”
The summer season at the Inn promises to be a memorable one with Ramsey Lewis, Steel Pulse, Led Zeppegain and a Sinatra tribute all on tap. So if you want to get your groove on, check out the Inn. It’s a hip, local hang that will put the music in you.