Malibu Farm Cafe
$$ ‧ American restaurant
Address: 23000 Pacific Coast Hwy Building C, Malibu, CA 90265, United States
The Malibu Pier, adorned with iconic white towers, stands as a timeless landmark, offering stunning coastal views. Dating back to 1905, this pier has evolved into a beloved destination, renowned not only for its history but also for exceptional restaurants and lovely shop.
Historical Journey
Built to support operations of Frederick Hastings Rindge's Malibu Rancho, the pier played a vital role in shipping agricultural products and receiving ranch necessities. Over the years, it transformed, serving as a public pier, U.S. Coast Guard lookout, and a hub for sports fishing.
After facing damages and reconstruction, the pier changed hands multiple times. In 1980, a real estate auction featuring the Malibu Pier took place, eventually leading to the State of California's ownership. The pier underwent extensive restoration and reopened in 2008, welcoming visitors from around the world.
The Ranch at the Malibu Pier: Continuing the Farming Tradition
The pier's surroundings were once part of the expansive Rancho Malibu. Today, ONE GUN RANCH, located in the canyons above the pier, continues the farming tradition using eco-friendly "biodynamic" techniques. The Ranch's Shop brings a touch of imagination to the pier. From unusual surf and skate apparel to unique gifts, spa products, beach essentials, and fishing gear – there's something for every visitor. You can even rent a rod and get fishing permits to try your luck on the pier. I myself bought my self a wonderfully thick canvas tote bag with an internal pocket and wide square base with Malibu Pier written on it.
Malibu Farm Restaurant & Cafe
At the pier you have the option of dining at Malibu Cafe, which offers a fresh, organic, and local culinary experience by Helene Henderson. The white-washed dining room and oceanfront patio bar provide picturesque views of the pier and the ocean. Perfect for a relaxing getaway from the city.
Or you can visit the Malibu Farm Cafe at the ocean end of the pier. Where you can indulge in farm-fresh and organic meals, including Swedish pancakes, salads, and grass-fed burgers. The views from the end of the pier of the surfers and if you're lucky dolphins while sipping on fresh-squeezed juices or artisanal coffee is definitely a highlight of anyones visit.
My Time in Malibu
Our adventure began on an unexpectedly cloudy day, a welcome respite from the week's scorching sun that had left my limbs sun-kissed. Malibu beach greeted us, surprisingly uncrowded, possibly due to the overcast weather. Descending steep stairs, we stood on the sandy shore, facing a sea debating its temperament. To our rear, a majestic cliff rose, a stark contrast to the bustling streets of LA, immersing us in the beach's natural allure.
As we strolled along the shoreline, marvelling at oceanfront mansions, hunger beckoned. We decided to head towards our next stop: Malibu Pier. Adorned with a white façade and a pale blue sign, the pier welcomed us with a cinematic yet authentically serene ambiance. Settling at Malibu Farm Cafe's patio at the far end of the pier, we enjoyed a captivating view of the grey clouds swirling above the crashing waves. The cafe's nautical theme transported us to a seaside escape within the city.
Seated on pale blue-grey chairs under a wooden table, the patio exuded warmth. The sheer tarp above, adorned with rattan lanterns, created a cozy atmosphere. A word of advice for future visitors: bring a sweater, as the pier can get a bit windy during meals that not even the cafe can stop. Perusing the diverse menu, we opted for sandwiches – grilled salmon or mahi in a brioche bun, a classic BLT, and a breaded mustard chicken, each accompanied by arugula and a quinoa salad. Two cappuccinos and a matcha latte completed our delightful, albeit slightly pricey, lunch.
Refreshed and energized, we continued to explore the pier. A visit to the Ranch, the pier's shop, yielded an array of items, from soap to tote bags and fish bait. Descending another steep stairwell along the cliff's edge, we captured beautiful photos beneath the pier.
Our day at Malibu Pier was a tranquil escape, offering a blend of natural beauty, delicious cuisine, and unique finds. Despite the cloudy backdrop, the pier's allure and the serenity it provided made it a day to remember.
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