For years, Gladstones Malibu has been a landmark on the California coast—a restaurant perched right at the edge of the Pacific, offering sweeping ocean views and a reputation for being the spot for seafood with a view. Generations of Angelenos have made the drive up Pacific Coast Highway, celebrating birthdays, anniversaries, and Sunday family dinners with the sound of crashing waves just outside the window.
But let’s be honest—there was a stretch when Gladstones lost its shine. For many locals, it became known as a place with a killer view but mediocre food, a spot you’d visit once for the scenery but not necessarily rush back to for the cuisine. Our own family stayed away for nearly a year, partly due to the Palisades fire that disrupted travel in the area, but also because we assumed we’d just be paying for the view, not the quality.
That’s why our recent visit was such a surprise. We discovered that Gladstones has found its groove again—blending its iconic setting with food, service, and an atmosphere that feels welcoming to families without sacrificing quality. And based on the buzz and full tables we saw, we’re not the only ones noticing.
This is the story of how Gladstones has become a family favorite once more—and why you might want to plan your own visit soon.
A Malibu Icon with a Fresh Spark
When you arrive at Gladstones, you’re reminded of why it’s been such an enduring part of Malibu’s dining scene. The building practically hangs over the ocean, with panoramic views that shift throughout the day: golden mornings, sparkling afternoons, and breathtaking sunsets.
📖 According to the Los Angeles Times (2024), Gladstones has been part of the “cultural fabric of Malibu dining” for nearly five decades, but has undergone a quiet reinvestment in quality to win back locals.
The difference now is that the experience feels renewed. From the moment we walked in, there was a warmth that wasn’t just about the California sunshine. The staff greeted us with genuine smiles, the tables were bustling but not chaotic, and the menu had a mix of classics and new offerings that signaled real attention to detail.
✅ Culinary Passages Tip: If you can, request seating closest to the ocean. The sea breeze, sound of the waves, and unobstructed sunset views transform dinner into something magical—especially for kids who might otherwise get restless.
Starting Strong: Starters That Surprise
We began with a couple of appetizers, not expecting much more than standard seafood fare. Instead, what arrived at the table was clam chowder that rivaled the best we’ve had in New England. Creamy without being heavy, packed with tender clams, and perfectly seasoned, it was the kind of dish you keep going back to with your spoon, even if you told yourself you’d only “taste a little.”
Alongside the chowder, we sampled their calamari. Crispy, lightly breaded, and served with a tangy aioli, it disappeared quickly—especially thanks to our kids, who declared it the best calamari they’ve ever had.
For a place once criticized for phoning it in with appetizers, this was a promising start.
The Main Event: Fresh, Flavorful, and Family-Approved
The highlight of the evening came with the entrées.
I ordered the Halibut, which happened to be the catch of the day, and it was a revelation. Perfectly seared on the outside, moist and flaky on the inside, and accompanied by fresh seasonal vegetables, it was clear the kitchen was treating the seafood with the respect it deserves. For the first time in ages, I thought: this fish tastes like it was pulled from the ocean this morning.
My husband went with a classic burger, something you wouldn’t necessarily expect to shine at a seafood restaurant. But shine it did—juicy, well-seasoned, and cooked exactly to order, served with a pile of crispy fries. Sometimes, simplicity done right can be just as impressive as an elaborate seafood dish.
And then there were the kids. If you’ve ever tried dining at an upscale spot with children, you know it can be tricky. Too many restaurants either ignore kids’ menus entirely or treat them like an afterthought. Not here. Gladstones’ kids’ menu offered a range of choices that actually appealed to our daughters—mac and cheese, chicken tenders, grilled salmon, even a smaller portion of fish & chips. They cleaned their plates and declared their meals “amazing,” which, if you have kids, you know is not something they say often about restaurant food.
✅ Culinary Passages Tip: If you have younger children, ask for the kid-friendly seating near the windows. Watching surfers and seabirds kept ours entertained while we enjoyed a slower pace.
Drinks and Adult Indulgences
Of course, no Malibu dinner is complete without a cocktail. I ordered a Margarita, and it was both generous in size and strong in flavor—a bright, tangy drink with just enough sweetness. My husband opted for a craft beer from a local brewery, and he appreciated that the drink list leaned into California coastal favorites, rather than just sticking to the usual mass-market choices.
For wine lovers, Gladstones offers a thoughtful selection of California wines, with an emphasis on nearby regions like Santa Barbara and Napa. The staff were more than willing to make pairing suggestions, which added a nice touch for those wanting to elevate the meal.
Skipping Dessert (This Time)
We were tempted by the dessert menu but decided to skip it, knowing we already had leftovers to bring home. The options were limited. Only a Chocolate Lava Cake, and Ice Cream. Next time, dessert will definitely be part of the plan since the Chocolate Lava Cake looked really good.
The Atmosphere: Casual, Coastal, and Comfortable
One of the biggest reasons families are falling in love with Gladstones again is the atmosphere.
📖 The California Restaurant Association (2023) reports that 62% of families in the state prefer restaurants that balance casual comfort with upscale touches — exactly the sweet spot Gladstones is hitting again.
Gladstones manages to walk that fine line between casual and upscale. You can arrive in jeans and sandals after a day at the beach, or you can dress up a little for a special occasion—and both will feel equally at home.
The dining room is closed right now due to renovations post fire damage; however, the beautiful patio is open. The outdoor patio offers fresh air and an even closer connection to the coastline. On our visit, we saw couples on date nights, large families celebrating birthdays, and groups of friends lingering over cocktails. It felt lively without being overwhelming.
✅ Culinary Passages Tip: Time your reservation for about an hour before sunset. You’ll get the golden-hour glow for photos, plus the dramatic Malibu sunset as your meal unfolds.
A Short History of Gladstones Malibu
To understand why Gladstones matters, you need to know its story:
- 1972: Gladstones first opens in Malibu, quickly becoming a local institution.
- 1980s: Its oceanfront views and celebrity sightings turn it into a hotspot for Angelenos and tourists alike.
- 2000s: Reputation falters as service and consistency decline.
- 2020s: With refreshed leadership and renewed focus on quality, Gladstones regains its footing.
📖 The Los Angeles Conservancy (2022) recognizes Gladstones as one of Malibu’s longest-standing eateries, symbolic of “California’s mid-century coastal dining culture.”
Comparison: Gladstones vs. Other LA Coastal Icons
| Restaurant | Vibe | Best For | Highlight Dish |
|---|---|---|---|
| Gladstones Malibu | Casual-coastal with upscale touches | Families, birthdays, relaxed dinners | Clam Chowder |
| Duke’s Malibu | Hawaiian-inspired | Group gatherings | Hula pie |
| Nobu Malibu | Celebrity hotspot | Luxury splurges | Black cod miso |
📖 Eater LA (2024) noted that Gladstones “anchors the coast for families, much as Nobu does for the celebrity crowd.”
What’s Changed at Gladstones?
So what explains this revival? From what we observed and heard from staff, there’s been a renewed focus on quality and consistency. The kitchen is taking more care with ingredients, the menu has been refreshed, and the service has improved.
📖 The California Coastal Commission (2023) describes Gladstones’ location as “a quintessential public-facing coastal dining landmark.”
In the past, it sometimes felt like Gladstones relied too heavily on its iconic location. Now, it feels like the restaurant is working hard to live up to that view.
Families in particular seem to be responding. The kids’ menu, the friendly staff, and the comfortable vibe make it easy to bring little ones without sacrificing a quality meal for the adults.
Why It Works for Families
There are plenty of restaurants with ocean views in Southern California, but few combine the following elements quite as well as Gladstones does right now:
- Kid-Friendly Options: A thoughtful kids’ menu, plus staff who don’t make you feel like an inconvenience when you ask for crayons or extra napkins.
- Casual Sophistication: It’s nice enough for a celebration but not so fancy that you feel nervous about bringing kids.
- Portion Sizes: Generous without being overwhelming. Perfect for sharing or for making sure there are leftovers for tomorrow.
- Location, Location, Location: Right on PCH, with parking available—no endless circling required.
- Memorable Moments: From the view to the food, everything feels like it adds up to an occasion.
Planning Your Visit
If you’re ready to rediscover Gladstones, here are a few things to keep in mind:
- Reservations: Gladstones is currently NOT taking reservations and only operates on a first-come, first-served basis.
- Parking: There’s on-site parking, which is a rare treat in Malibu. Valet service is also available.
- Budget: Expect entrées to range from $20–$50, with appetizers around $20–$50. Cocktails average $15–$18. It’s not cheap, but the quality justifies the price.
- Best Times to Visit: Weeknights offer a quieter experience, while weekends bring more energy and live music on occasion.
Final Thoughts: Falling in Love Again
Our family left Gladstones with full bellies, leftovers in hand, and smiles on our faces. More importantly, we left with a new perspective: this wasn’t just a place for tourists chasing ocean views. It was a place where locals, families, and food lovers could gather and feel taken care of.
Gladstones Malibu has managed to reclaim what made it special in the first place while raising the bar on food and service. And for families like ours, that combination is irresistible.
So if you’ve written off Gladstones in the past, consider giving it another chance. Order the clam chowder, try the catch of the day, and let your kids pick something from the menu that makes them excited to eat. Stay for the sunset, toast with a margarita or a glass of California wine, and rediscover why families are falling in love with this Malibu icon all over again.
Because sometimes, the best surprises are the ones that remind you of what’s been right there all along.
Make your Malibu or coastal outing complete with other CulinaryPassages guides:
- Pair Gladstones’ casual charm with a Michelin gem like Kazan Beverly Hills.
- Compare family-friendly tradition at The Golden Bull.
- Cool off with artisan scoops in LA’s Ice Cream Renaissance.
- Check out our guide for upscale restaurants to dine with your kids.
About the Author (Ginger Graham):
Ginger Graham is a Los Angeles–based food and travel writer who believes that the best meals are the ones shared with family — especially when paired with an ocean view. With a passion for discovering restaurants that blend coastal sophistication with a welcoming atmosphere, this writer highlights destinations that make dining out feel both special and effortless.
Gladstones Malibu has long been a family favorite and remains one of the author’s top picks for seaside dining in Southern California. From the nostalgic charm of its oceanfront setting to the elevated menu that appeals to all ages, it’s a place that continues to capture the joy of togetherness.
Through Culinary Passages, the author shares authentic, experience-driven stories that inspire readers to explore, taste, and reconnect — one beautiful meal at a time.
