2024 Bucket List
Updated on Apr 26 2024 8:37am
Indulge in a culinary journey like no other as you immerse yourself in the serenity of beachside restaurants with a truly spectacular ocean view. Nothing quite tops off a great meal better than the soothing sound of waves lapping at the shore and the vast expanse of the Pacific Ocean stretching out before you. Whether you're savoring a light lunch or embarking on a romantic evening out, the organic ambiance of these breathtaking vistas elevates your dining experience to new heights, infusing every bite with a touch of seaside sophistication. With the picturesque backdrop of the Pacific, these beachfront Los Angeles eateries are destinations in themselves, beckoning you to not only savor delectable cuisine but also to savor the beauty of the world beyond your plate.
At Malibu Farm, you have the choice of two exquisite dining experiences on the iconic Malibu Pier. Nestled at the beginning of the pier, the upscale restaurant serves farm-fresh dishes and handcrafted cocktails, immersing you in an ambiance where you can almost taste the ocean spray. Alternatively, the casual café, positioned at the pier's far end, extends over the vast expanse of the Pacific Ocean, allowing you to savor the ocean breeze and the mesmerizing sound of waves crashing as you indulge in delectable bites. Regardless of your selection, you'll be treated to awe-inspiring vistas of one of the world's most renowned beaches and surfers' haven.
Malibu Farm Restaurant, 23000 Pacific Coast Hwy Building C, Malibu, CA 90265
Nestled atop the scenic shores of Los Angeles, Elephante is more than just a restaurant; it's an Instagrammer's paradise and a culinary haven. With sweeping ocean vistas and an inviting, semi-open ambiance, Elephante provides the ideal backdrop for capturing social media gold or rubbing shoulders with the city's influencers. Chef Thomas Lim's Italian-American fare shines with delectable pasta dishes and perfectly blistered personal-sized pizzas. This chic destination not only offers elevated Italian cuisine but also serves as a tranquil escape, channeling the spirit and flavors of coastal southern Italy. As the sun sets over the Pacific, Elephante takes you on a Mediterranean journey right in the heart of Los Angeles.
Élephante, 1332 2nd St Rooftop, Santa Monica, CA 90401
Nobu Malibu, nestled along the picturesque Pacific Coast Highway, is more than just a restaurant; it's a coveted experience synonymous with luxury and celebrity sightings. If you're seeking a taste of Japanese-Peruvian culinary excellence, this is the place to be. Renowned for its delectable selection of sushi and sashimi creations, Nobu Malibu has welcomed a parade of A-listers through its doors. From chart-topping musicians like Drake to Hollywood's finest like Natalie Portman and Megan Fox, the restaurant has become a haven for the rich and famous. Securing a reservation here is akin to winning the lottery, but the reward is worth it as you savor tiny plates of fresh seafood and innovative Peruvian-Japanese cuisine in the heart of celebrity-rich Malibu.
Nobu Malibu, 22706 Pacific Coast Hwy, Malibu, CA 90265
Perched gracefully 18 stories above the breathtaking Southern California coastline, The Penthouse at the Huntley in Santa Monica is a true gem within the hotel. This dining destination offers a 360-degree spectacle of the coastal cliffs and the ethereal meeting point where the sky kisses the ocean. Embrace the allure of the Penthouse lifestyle as you sip on imaginative cocktails and savor contemporary cuisine fit for a celebrity. Designed by the renowned Thomas Schoos, this Santa Monica restaurant on the 18th floor provides an extravagant rooftop dining experience, complete with panoramic ocean vistas, inviting beach cabanas, and open sky enclaves. Whether you're sipping on signature craft cocktails or indulging in the finest of contemporary California cuisine, The Penthouse guarantees a dining experience that's unparalleled, making it one of the premier culinary destinations in Santa Monica.
The Penthouse at the Huntley, 1111 2nd St, Santa Monica, CA 90403
Nestled on the strand of Downtown Manhattan Beach, The Strand House is a distinguished coastal California cuisine restaurant that seamlessly blends sophistication with comfort. Born from the shared love of exceptional food, wine, and companionship among a close-knit group of South Bay families, this family-owned establishment opened its doors in 2011, spearheading a culinary revolution in Manhattan Beach. Boasting a breathtaking 180° vista of the Pacific Ocean, The Strand House entices both globetrotters and locals with its panoramic views, but it's the culinary creations of Chef Chris Park that truly captivate. Showcasing the year-round abundance of Southern California's produce, the menu is a testament to the chef's dedication to sourcing directly from the finest farmers and purveyors found at the weekly farmers market. To complement the dining experience, The Strand House boasts a thoughtfully curated cocktail and wine program that caters to the preferences of every guest. In keeping with their belief that impeccable service need not be formal, The Strand House provides a five-star experience steeped in the warmth and hospitality of a beach town, treating each guest like a cherished member of the family. Additionally, StrandBar, conveniently located steps away from the Pier, serves as the vibrant heart of Manhattan Beach's bustling downtown scene. It offers the perfect setting to savor handcrafted cocktails as the sun gracefully sets over the Pacific, or to unwind with a local craft beer while catching the latest game on television, creating a delightful retreat for those leaving the beach.
The Strand House, 117 Manhattan Beach Blvd, Manhattan Beach, CA 90266
Indulge in the best of both worlds at Lucky's Malibu, a classic American steakhouse perched by the pristine shores of Malibu. Whether you're strolling in fresh from the beach in your sun-kissed shorts or seeking a late-night cocktail in an upscale setting, Lucky's caters to all. With its roots in the star-studded enclave of Montecito, this Malibu gem might offer fewer Oprah and Meghan Markle sightings, but you'll find a crowd that's no less impressive. Picture Real Housewives sipping martinis while showcasing their dazzling jewelry and surfers who casually mention their two Oscars at home as they strut in board shorts. Beyond the captivating people-watching, Lucky's impresses with its delectable cuisine, making it a must-visit destination that seamlessly blends sophistication with beachside charm.
Lucky's Malibu, 3835 Cross Creek Rd Suite #18, Malibu, CA 90265