The Malibu Cafe

"Unlike most of the places on this guide, Malibu Cafe doesn’t have a view of the water. But it does have something just as spectacular: a view of the Santa Monica mountains. Getting here is a trek—about 20 minutes off PCH—but once you arrive, you can gaze onto a 5,000-acre property filled with waterfalls and tree groves. It’s located on the historic Calamigos Ranch, an event space that’s been around since the 1930s. Although it costs a ton of money to host an event here, anyone can drive up and eat at the restaurant. The food is good rather than great, but it’s a nice pick-me-up while daydreaming about moving here and living off the land." - Brant Cox, Sylvio Martins, Nikko Duren

"The Malibu Cafe is a bit of a drive and nestled in the Santa Monica mountains at Calamigos Ranch. However, it’s totally worth it because the cafe is a blast and incredibly Instagram-worthy. With live music, games and a huge outdoor space, it’s an ideal place for a birthday or gathering. Only open from Thursday to Sunday." - Farley Elliott

"You are an angel, a social butterfly, and August is a fantastic month for you to spread your wings. Venus enters your 11th house on the 11th (how very fitting), which means your realm of connection, social image, and friendship will shine even brighter. Take the crew on a journey into the Santa Monica mountains for a meal at Malibu Cafe, a unique dining experience where you’ll find a sprawling 5,000 acre property filled with waterfalls, tree groves, and a surprisingly nice crab salad. " - kat hong

"COVID-19 Update: Open for pickup. Wedged between the Santa Monica Mountains and Malibu wine country, Malibu Cafe and its sprawling grounds (one hundred and thirty acres, to be exact) and outdoor games (corn hole, pool, and shuffleboard) make it a great place to bring littles. Much of the action centers around the courtyard, which is set up with a bar, lawn games, and picnic tables. Cafe reservations are recommended, especially on weekends, when without one, the wait can be several hours for a table. A BBQ-heavy menu includes pulled pork, brisket, and Southern fried chicken, but there are a handful of veggie options, like, say, a Brussels sprout salad with Cara Cara oranges and avocado, for those looking for something lighter. There’s a small kids menu with grilled cheese, a burger, and pasta. On the way out, stroll through the little boutique, Shop Calagmigos, which is stocked with beach-y separates like YSTR dresses, tassel bracelets, and Apolis reusable totes. COVID-19 Disclaimer: We are working hard to keep our listings as up to date as possible (deliveries, outdoor dining, etc.), but given the evolving nature of local COVID-19 restrictions, we recommend double-checking the information in this guide with any business you plan on visiting. Also, please note that we have not vetted any businesses listed within our guides for their compliance with applicable safety regulations. "

"Located on the grounds of Calamigos Ranch—which is less a functional ranch, and more a wedding destination with private bungalows and giant pools—Malibu Cafe serves pretty standard Malibu fare (hello, $28 breakfast sandwich), but the bottomless deal is great, and you’re eating on a lawn where people promise to be with each other for the rest of their lives, so it almost doesn’t matter." - Kat Hong