Friday, June 1, 2012

Paradise Cove Café: The Taste of Malibu

Aiming to preserve a slice of Southern
California beach lifestyle, Bob Morris --
who grew up in Malibu -- opened this
ocean breeze infused caf
é, restaurant
and scenic getaway in 1970's. Tucked
away in idyllic Paradise Cove, near the
romantic Paradise Cove Pier (north of
Malibu, just off Highway 1), this one-of-
a-kind sea-front-dining-and-drinking-
establishment is framed by stunning
bluffs, sea waves
crushing on the shore,
fine sand beaches as far as the eye can
see, and swanky boats moored nearby.

Sounds familiar? This multi-room beach
shack served as a backdrop to some
legendary shows and blockbusters like
The OC, Baywatch, The Rockford Files,
American Pie 2 and Beach Blanket

Bingo to name but a few.

Dishing up tasty grub to a laid-back
thong-and-sarong-clad crowd lounging
in spacious booths that line the main
dining area; pouring out booze to crispy
brown surfers and Hawaiian-shirt-

sporting sunny boys hanging out at
a
hut-alike Mojito bar that offers (aside
from Caribbean-leaning cocktails) breath-
taking views over the beach and the latest
scores on flat-screen TVs
; and serving
coastal specialties to a sun-worshipping
crowd at the waterfront patio right on
the sand -- this legendary oasis is not
only Malibu's landmark but probably the
one and only eatery in La La Land where
you can kick off your sandals, dip your
feet into warm sand while digging in and
getting your Mojito fix in the thick of the
beauty of oceanic scenery ... only a few
steps away from the Pacific.
Out-of-towners, locals, families and
suntanned Malibeauties haunt this ultra-
popular
joint, and celeb drop-ins are quite
frequent. A mellow vibe pervades this no-
frills scene while vigorous chit-chat seems
to be ubiquitous.
Vintage black-and-white
photos reflecting Malibu's historic
microcosm line the back walls.


As soon as the night rolls in first-daters
and couples gather around the coveted
patio tables to soak up the romantic vibe
while sipping and listening to the lapping
waves. On chilly days heat lamps and a
crackling fireplace indoors heat up
atmosphere. Live music action rocks the
hut every Tuesday and Thursday night, 

and an annual 4th of July celebration
firework show casts sparkling lights over
Malibu's coastal splendor. 


A traditional American breakfast menu
includes 3-egg-omelets that arrive oozing
with Jack and Cheddar cheese. Additional
goodies and topping options (such as rice,
black beans, tomato studded guac, sausage
and shrimp) give this high-protein dish a
special twist. Carrot Cake Waffles are taste-
buds-blowing and Macadamia Coconut
Pancakes are heavenly fluffy -- to live for!
"Serving Fresh Catch of the Day" -- this is 

the lunch and dinner menu's credo.Try the
flavorful Macadamia Coconut Shrimp or dig
into a whole Maine Lobster Pasta tossed in
a rich tomato and garlic sauce. Steamed
Mussels bathed in a savory wine and butter
vinaigrette are finger-licking tender and lush.
Parmesan-crusted Halibut is another specialty
a la maison. "Mile High" is this eatery's sweet
incentive featuring 8 Inch of chocolatey
layers thickly covered with chocolate icing.
Patrons wash it down with a Pineapple Mojito
while watching the setting sun over sparkling
ocean waters.
Avoid weekend waits! Instead come on
weekdays, arrive early or make a reservation.
If there is a wait you will get lobster-shaped
pager that will buzz as soon as your table is
ready. Bon App
étit!




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