Reel Inn Malibu

"What do you get when you combine the fresh fish from Malibu Seafood and the retro vibes from over at Neptune’s? Reel Inn. The festive seafood shack right at the mouth of Topanga Canyon often gets overlooked by its two competitors, but that’s a mistake because Reel Inn has quality seafood at good prices - including the massive and massively excellent fish tacos topped with special Thousand Island-ish dressing - without all the manic tourists. The ocean-facing patio is where you want to be." - brant cox

"The stretch of PCH as it runs through Malibu is gorgeous, but also chaotic, congested, and filled with restaurants that only offer $20 valet. Not Reel Inn, though. This classic seafood shack has a massive, dusty parking lot that, even during peak weekend crush, will always have available spaces. And yes, it’s free. " - sylvio martins, brant cox, nikko duren, garrett snyder

"A classic seaside fish grill, Reel Inn has been drawing in locals and visitors for generations. With a wide outdoor area, huge menu of fresh fish, and approachable prices, it’s a solid beach day lunch or dinner." - Farley Elliott

"Another PCH classic, Reel Inn is only a few minutes drive from the Santa Monica downtown hellscape. Though Reel Inn has only been around since 1986, it’s become a go-to. The food is fresh and well-priced and their “cajun style” is something you need in your body." - brant cox

"Another PCH standby, the beauty of The Reel Inn lies not only in its massive seafood offering—everything from fresh lobster, mahi mahi, ahi tuna, and shrimp tacos, grilled or fried at your request and arranged into refreshingly generous portions—but also in its brilliant layout: The restaurant is split into two sprawling seating areas, one indoor, one outdoor, with rows upon rows of booths and picnic tables, meaning that finding a spot for the whole crew is doable even during peak season. There’s no waiter service, just a walk-up window with an easy-to-navigate chalkboard menu."