Restaurant Review: Geoffrey's Malibu

27400 Pacific Coast Highway

Malibu, California 90265

310-457-1519

www.geoffreysmalibu.com

While in Malibu to check out Pepperdine University with my daughter, we had a little time to spare before our tour appointment. After investigating the length of gorgeous coastline that is Malibu, I swung into Geoffrey's Malibu for a quick lunch before our tour. Before our lunch, I'd never heard of this restaurant, but it looked like it was the type that would be satisfying for a food snob like me. Perched on a bluff, Geoffrey's Malibu looked inviting. I am happy to say that I was not disappointed!

(Later on, I found out that Geoffrey's has long been a Malibu staple, from its early existence as the Holiday House in 1948, all the way through its present owner, Jeff Peterson. It has always been an attraction for luminaries as well as locals. Supposedly, President John F. Kennedy began his affair with Marilyn Monroe in this very restaurant!)

Be forewarned that it's a tight squeeze for parking, but luckily the restaurant offers valet service. After relinquishing my car keys to the attendant, we went "inside" Geoffrey's to be seated. Most of the restaurant is al fresco, and the patio overlooks the ocean. The hostess was actually located outside. Coming from the Midwest where I was still getting weather updates on my BlackBerry warning of an impending snow emergency back home, this state of affairs was both novel and welcome. I had been craving to dine outside in warm sunshine for months.

We were seated along the outside of the deck with a good view of the ocean. Actually, there's not a bad view anywhere in the house; all of the tables are positioned for maximum ocean view. Although there was the typical southern California haze, we could make out Catalina Island in the distance. Below us was a mass of flowering orchids growing unkempt in clay pots. Our server was both cheerful and efficient. We explained our need to dine and dash out quickly, and she was attentive in bringing our dishes out and the bill quickly.

The menu is a manageable one, and there are many tempting dishes sure to please any palate. My teenage daughter ordered the grilled chicken sandwich ($17.50), which is accompanied by fries and a side order of Caesar's salad. The plump chicken breast was served on a ciabatta roll, accompanied by avocado, lettuce, tomato and pesto aioli. I could detect a hint of cilantro, and the sandwich was very good.

I decided on the corn chowder ($9.50) with blue crab for a starter and the grilled Portobello mushroom for the entree. The soup was absolutely heaven! The chowder portion of the soup was creamy, and textured with bits of roasted corn and jalapeno pepper and chives. The crab was surprisingly plentiful and mouth wateringly delicious. The soup came in an enormous bowl, more than enough for the two of us to share. My daughter, who is a picky eater, loved it as well.

The marinated and grilled Portobello ($15) was placed atop a square of polenta and a ratatouille including zucchini and tomato served atop a red bell pepper coulis. The mushroom was topped with thin slices of spicy pasilla. The dish was visually quite pleasing and for vegetarian fare, tasted wonderful! The mix of the meatiness of the Portobello with the soft texture of the polenta and deliciousness of the fresh vegetables made for a delightful combination.

Most of the entrees are reasonably priced, considering this is Malibu. I would love to come back sometime to linger over a glass of wine with my lunch. The signature lunch dish is Geoffrey's Eggs Benedict, served with prosciutto and fresh fruit, and by the looks of one going by, is probably quite delicious.

Geoffrey's Malibu is open for lunch, brunch and dinner, and also is available for parties and catering. While we did not call for reservations and walked in for lunch without wait, it was a weekday visit. As with any restaurant, if you have the time, call and ask if reservations are required or recommended.

I highly recommend this jewel along the seaside.