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.

Dating back to 1956, this PCH staple at the northernmost tip of Malibu is a perfect place to experience the area in its natural environment. With an eclectic mix of surfers, bikers, families and tourists, the fresh-caught seafood and crisp french fries are hard to forget.

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.

For Thai food in Malibu, family-owned Cholada is the place to go. The casual and beachy ambience makes it good place after surfing or on the way to the heart of Malibu.

Situated at both ends of the pier, Malibu Farm Café is a popular lunch spot boasting fantastic ocean views at the end of the pier. The environment is casual with counter service and beer and wine options only. Closer to the shore, Malibu Farm has a more substantial menu with cocktails and more.

New steakhouse Lucky’s has all the makings of a the future Malibu classic. Imported from up the coast in Montecito, Lucky’s has steaks, seafood, and sides that will satisfy anyone looking for excellent grilled beef, fresh shellfish like giant shrimp, and hefty sides like creamed corn and grilled asparagus.

Perhaps the most destination-worthy place in Malibu, Broad Street Oyster has a hidden location at Malibu Country Mart that serves everything from supremely fresh oysters to perhaps the best lobster roll in the city.

This excellent taco and burrito truck from a former executive chef who lost his job from the Woosley fire serves everyday favorites like fried fish tacos and breakfast burritos during the day. The menu extends to other beach favorites like burgers and hot dogs. Just check out the Instagram for the celebrities that try this food.

Neighborhood favorite Ollo has easy comfort fare like burgers, pizza, salads, and pasta, with a full breakfast to boot. It’s the kind of every day restaurant that works for locals but will appeal to anyone visiting from out of town.

Be prepared to be patient as the line during the weekends can get long. However, this little shack on PCH serves comforting food like fish and chips, clam chowder and other seafood options. It’s also a market, so consider buying fresh seafood to cook at home. Pick a table outdoors or grab it to go and enjoy at the beach.

Considered by many Malibu locals and Pepperdine students as having the best breakfast burrito in town, Lily's offers reasonably-priced Mexican food. The spicy salsa paired with every order is a bonus, so make sure to snag two for extra topping on burritos.