Malibu Seafood — Restaurant in Malibu

I visited for the very first time this past Saturday around 3pm or 4pm—the food was amazing! The atmosphere was delightful! But the service was INCREDIBLY DISAPPOINTING!!! I had one interaction with one employee, which was enough for me to NEVER want to come back again. The place was busy and there was a long line (as per usual it seems), and I could tell the girl at the counter was trying to work fast. So I immediately list everything I want to order. By no means did I want to waste her time or ask a question that required an extremely detailed response, but being that it was my first time eating there, I did have 1 simple question. The menu did not indicate if the filets were served with seasoning or sauces, or if you had to pay extra for that—so naturally, because I want to enjoy the meal that I am PAYING for, I asked calmly and politely: “Does [the mahi mahi] come with seasoning or sauce?” I kid you not, the young cashier actually balled up her fist and then loudly banged it down against the counter???Apparently she was offended that I had the nerve to ask this… and was, like, super aggressive about it too?? After this strange outburst, she looked up at me, narrowed her eyes and bit her lip (as if she were holding back a rude remark) then plainly stated: “No, it just comes plain.” Extremely uncomfortable and confused and embarrassed, (and secretly kind of annoyed), I just moved on and finished the transaction as quickly as possible for the sake of the patrons waiting behind me, who now had an even longer wait time in line because the cashier decided to have a dramatic moment. That said, I hope the young woman finds peace or gets the help she needs, because the utter rage she exhibited over being asked such a simple question was genuinely concerning. Her anger didn't make ANY sense. Even my boyfriend was like, “Whoa, that was so weird?” It is not unreasonable for a paying customer to ask a simple question (which, mind you, only requires a one or two word answer). I’d only come back to give it a second chance because everything else was 5 stars… but Malibu Seafood, do you think it is acceptable to treat your customers...

Costs is pretty on pair for type of food and location. You can review the increased costs over the years with the menu photos people have added.

The strips of fish served are pretty fleshy, making it a substantial serving Ala cart or on the sandwich.

However, the type of fish used has zero flavor and the batter leaves something to be desired. I would say it definitely needs a malt vinegar (did not see an option for this) or tartar- which did come on the side, but it too was nothing to write home about. Simply mayonnaise and pickled relish.

I would really like to see a small serving of house made coleslaw on the fish sandwich to give it more flavor. At 8.95 for a sandwich, I'm not interested in purchasing an entire separate side to be able to add it myself, but offering a $1.50 additional option would be nice. Then review would say, definitely worth the optional coleslaw topper!

Fish strip Ala cart for $6 was right at a fair cost. Just enough to debate going without, but once you realize the heft, worth the money. I just wish it had some kind of flavor to make me want to come back here again.

It's definitely worth the stop to enjoy the area and being on par for costs, but more novelty for me due to lack of flavor/presentation.

Also, the line out the parking lot seems typical. Locals said it usually wraps, so be prepared to wait... twice. That line is just to place the order. You get a pager when it's finally ready for pick up.

Cups of water are free on request at...

Must Visit spot when coming to California. We have frequented this place for over 20 years. Most amazing spot right off PCH views to die for and fresh seafood that rivals anywhere else in california.

Atmosphere: i mean it doesn't get better then right off the ocean in the open air beach like shack, happy people sunshine. Nothing better

Seating: Tons of tables with beautiful views all over. People eat quickly

Food: New England Clam Chowder - TOP TIER chowder, fresh full of clams and the broth is amazing

Mini Loaf - A must get the sourdough is amazing, hot crispy and soft at the same time. the perfect pairing to the chowder

2 Piece Fish & Fries - Crispy soft cooked perfectly. Fish really shines through the crispy batter. Huge pieces of fish

Shrimp & Fries - Large crispy shrimp butterflied and fried to perfection.

Fries themselves are good not great but passable.

Sauce Tip: Cocktail sauce is HEAVENLY we use it on EVERYTHING. Tartar Sauce is also really good.

Drinks: Iced Tea & Lemonade both very good

Price: A bit pricey, but its seafood so its expected. The quality of the fish is worth every penny

Parking: Limited free parking, paid lot that is very expensive. Beachside parking is free and always seems to be available.

Service: They are always extremely busy, staff is always friendly and keeps the line moving. NO issues whatsoever here

Must...