Tag Archives: patio dining

J&G STEAKHOUSE… “Chef John-Georges Enhances Camelback Mountain!”

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Perched atop the AAA Five Diamond Phoenician Resort in Scottsdale, Arizona with an unforgettable comprehensive perspective of the Sonoran Desert and Camelback Mountain sits J & G Steakhouse. A recipient of numerous awards and accolades, this John-Georges Vongerichten establishment possesses a modern upscale ambiance and a menu crafted by the Michelin-starred chef. J & G Steakhouse encompasses everything from premium savory meats to savory fish from around the world to luscious desserts…all within a sophisticated, yet welcoming steakhouse just waiting to please your every culinary desire.

The main entry of The Phoenician is graced with the sound of flowing water from the moment you arrive to the minute you step inside. Appealing sculptures accompany the continuous intonations from fountains and small pools long after you’ve exited your vehicle. Immediately, you are relaxed and delivered to a place of tranquil zen, which is a delightful preamble to the cuisine awaiting you at J & G Steakhouse. Once upstairs at the restaurant, Chef de Cuisine Jacques Qualin is hard at work in the kitchen preparing menu selections created with local ingredients and the perfect seasonings to make each meal that is sent out to dining patrons simply exquisite.

Designed by noted architect David Rockwell, J & G Steakhouse possesses classic steakhouse surroundings combined with cleverly appointed modern touches. A voluminous outdoor dining terrace complete with a large circular fire pit caters to those who prefer to dine al fresco, while a widespread picturesque view of Camelback Mountain and the Sonoran Desert captivate everyone’s attention at first glance. Alluring hues of golds, purples and reds are dispersed throughout this fine dining breadth and complimented with soft lighting in every sector of this establishment.

Valley views take your breath away, while butcher-block-topped tables and elegant rounded leather booths remind you that you are in a steakhouse. Intriguing design draws your eye here and there, and the aromas of fresh bread baking, tender steaks grilling and other such delights begin to flow easily from the kitchen to the dining areas with ease and gracious appreciation from guests.

Raspberry Martini, Champagne and a Glass of Pinot Noir

Once escorted to our table and seated, our cocktail orders were taken and delivered promptly. The above photo presents several beverages we enjoyed during our meal. Each was flavorsome, fresh-tasting, and my Raspberry Martini ($13) was made with fresh muddled raspberries and hand-shaken to perfection then served in a vintage-style Champagne glass.

Fanny Bay Oysters

Maybe we went a little crazy with the fresh oysters on the half shell at J&G Steakhouse, but after trying four of them, we just had to have more. I bet our readers can guess which type of oysters the above sensations were. Anyone? That’s right! They were Fanny Bay oysters ($3.25/piece) with all the creaminess and mild flavored texture one could imagine. They were furnished atop perfectly chilled beds of ice and accompanied by multiple sauces and wedges of refreshing lemon. The above photo shows just how large they were. We almost couldn’t believe it ourselves!

Chilled Cucumber and Avocado Soup

After enjoying the delectable fresh oysters and a couple of cocktails, we were served our dinner selections. I decided upon the restaurant’s Neighborhood Menu ($39), which consists of three courses and a select adult beverage of my choosing. My first course was the above Chilled Cucumber & Avocado Soup. Garnished with shredded fresh basil and sweet tangy raspberries and blackberries, this starter was a phenomenal beginning to a memorable dining experience. The creamy mild flavor of the pureed cucumber and avocado was extremely pleasing and I thoroughly enjoyed every bite. The fresh seasonal berries offered a contrasting flavor of sweetness to the mild flavor of the soup and the shredded fresh basil gave the entire dish a slight peppery flavor while enhancing the vibrant color of this presentation.

Parmesan Crusted Chicken

My second of three courses arrived next with an exemplary appearance. Two thick organic chicken breasts flattened, coated in Parmesan cheese and Japanese breadcrumbs, then baked to a crispy perfection and situated atop a basil-lemon butter sauce beside tender stalks of white asparagus. I loved the conglomeration of crunchy and tender when taking my first bite of this entree…and the second…and the third. The suitable seasoning of the chicken mixed very well with the succulent butter sauce, which was enhanced with elongated strips of bright green basil for a touch of color.

Parmesan Crusted Chicken Interior View

Ah, yes…the popular Filet Mignon ($35.) Guess who ordered this fine 8-ounce beauty! This dinner choice arrived in front of my husband as I received my Parmesan Crusted Chicken. If there were two words to describe my husband’s thoughts about his steak, they would have to be “UTTER HAPPINESS”. The beef was prepared to a flavorful, juicy, medium wellness, while the grilled exterior was expertly seasoned and joined by southwestern bell peppers, a side of Bearnaise sauce and a black pepper jam condiment.

8-Ounce Filet Mignon With Bearnaise & Black Pepper Jam Sauces

An order of J & G Steakhouse’s Creamed Spinach ($9) was not only creamy, but filling and delicious as well. It just sounded too good to pass up, and it is one of my husband’s favorite side dishes to enjoy with a wonderful steak. I detected a touch of nutmeg and a hint of basil in this creation, which made for an amiable combination of tastes.

Side of Irresistible Creamed Spinach

For dessert, my third course was the Chilled Raspberry Puree with fresh blueberries, raspberries and blackberries, and a scoop of vanilla frozen yogurt crowned with a crisp biscotti-style almond cookie. This arctic-temperatured dish of liquid excitement was tangy, sweet, and lacked nothing in the flavor department. It addressed every taste bud and finished my meal off quite nicely.

Chilled Raspberry Puree

In all, our experience at J & G Steakhouse was pleasing to the palate, fondly memorable, and altogether a bountiful experience. We look forward to visiting again in the near future to repeat our enjoyable culinary experience of flavors.

  • ESTABLISHMENT / DECOR: Classic steakhouse ambiance with a modern motif throughout. Upscale, yet welcoming and enjoyable in all aspects of the establishment.
  • FOOD / DRINK: Fine cuisine preparations, refreshing and savory beverages, appealing visual appearance, and perfectly-dispensed portions.
  • LOCATION: J & G Steakhouse is located at the Phoenician Resort at 6000 East Camelback Road in Scottsdale, AZ 85251.
  • HOURS: The establishment serves dinner Sunday through Thursday from 5 PM to 10 PM, and Fridays and Saturdays from 5 PM – 11 PM. The bar is available daily beginning at 5 PM except on Thursdays, which is when it is reserved for the restaurant’s Happy Hour from 4 PM to 7 PM.
  • SERVICE / STAFF: Our server was Anthony. He was courteous, efficient, and extremely knowledgeable about wine pairings and the dinner menu.
  • PRICE / VALUE: J & G Steakhouse is a John-Georges Vongerichten eatery. Just as our review on Dune Restaurant & Bar at the One & Only Ocean Club in the Bahamas showcased the fine excellence and culinary talents of Chef Vongerichten, so do we with this article. An extraordinary evening for the two of us was well worth the cost.
  • CORKAGE FEE: Outside alcohol is not allowed into the restaurant.
  • PARKING: Complimentary valet parking is offered at the main entry to The Phoenician, while convenient self parking is also available on property.
  • TOTAL BILL: Everything tallied, our dining experience totaled right over $150. Worthwhile, memorable, and definitely worth the splurge!

J&G Steakhouse (The Phoenician) on Urbanspoon

J&G Steakhouse on Restaurantica

J&G Steakhouse Restaurant Reviews

* Menu and prices subject to change without notice.

JOE’S RESTAURANT… “Culinary Excellence With a Neighborhood Feel!”

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Known for it’s beaches and popular boardwalk, being an abode for the creative and artistically-inclined, its elongated entertainment-furnished Promenade and slower-paced neighborhood feel, Venice, CA is also host to another notable attraction…Joe’s Restaurant. For more than 20 years, Joe’s has been catering to the gastronomic cravings of patrons and leaving in its wake only satisfied customers forming lines to return. Our most recent visit to this eatery proved to be a delight of the senses, a culinary experience worth noting and an excellent choice for a late lunch.

Opened in1991, Executive Chef and owner, Joseph Miller sought out his love of all things culinary by opening Joe’s Restaurant along Abbot Kinney Boulevard in an eclectic section of Venice, California. Since that memorable occasion, Chef Miller has been serving up unmistakable offerings that serve as a favorite gathering spot among locals.

Below, the restaurant’s staff hard at work in the kitchen, the covered tranquil patio, the view of Joe’s from outside, indoor dining, a walk along the sidewalk beside the eatery and the view of the hallway leading from the patio back to the front entry.

Upon being seated at a cozy table for two on the patio on a perfectly beautiful California day, our server brought a vessel of iced water to our table, menus and a variety of breads with butter and an olive tapenade. Relaxing sounds of water flowing from the stone wall fountain built into a patio wall amplifies the al fresco dining experience. The fresh crusty bread that is served while perusing the menu is hearty and delightful.

I especially loved this warm weather chiller…the Watermelon Agua Fresca! Fresh-squeezed watermelon juice, simple syrup, a splash of soda and lime juice just waiting to be enjoyed. Such a refreshing beverage to enjoy on a warm day...

Watermelon Agua Fresca

The Chef’s Tasting was a small biscuit accompanied by a square of pork belly with a peach mustard, which complimented the flavors nicely.

Chef’s Tasting…Pork Belly With Peach Mustard and a Biscuit

Joe’s offers a sensational three-course lunch extension. For just $19, you can choose a starter, entree and dessert! We’re not kidding! We both did this, and were extremely satisfied with what we were presented for under $20.

Here’s what we ordered…

For my starter, I chose the Carrot Ginger Soup with Creme Fraiche and Cilantro. The essence of ginger was unique and mildly spicy throughout without being too overwhelming, while the soothing carrot puree rounded the dish off perfectly…

Carrot Ginger Soup

My husband chose the Albacore Crudo for his beginning flavor experience. Enhanced with Creme Fraiche, Japanese cucumber, breakfast radish, watermelon and toasted sesame, a quick taste of this appetizer convinced me that visual artistry wasn’t it’s only highlight…

Albacore Crudo

For his entree, my husband selected the California Sand Dabs. Avocado, cherry tomatoes, Maine sweet shrimp and delicate Sand Dabs in a delicious chive nage. (Nage is a French word for a flavored liquid used for poaching delicate foods-typically seafood. An example of a traditional nage is a broth flavored with white wine, vegetables and herbs in which seafood is poached. The liquid is then reduced and thickened with cream and butter.)

California Sand Dabs

Below is a close-up of the Sand Dab dish. It was so beautiful and colorful, I just couldn’t resist…

My entree choice was the Duck Confit Tagliatelle. Super thin ribbons of Tagliatelle pasta, topped with multi-colored baby carrots, poached leeks, grilled onions and a savory duck jus. This dish was scrumptious and filling and I was happy to have ordered it.

Duck Confit Tagliatelle

For our dessert selections, my husband opted for the Chocolate Crunch Cake below. Joined by a hazelnut praline, coffee ice cream and flavorful candied hazelnuts, this sweet temptation was crunchy, delectable and good enough to cure even the most discriminative chocolate cravings.

Chocolate Crunch Cake

I selected the Pavlova. Fresh macerated berries, meringue, mascarpone cream atop delicately crumbled cookies. So picturesque!

Pavlova

Joe’s has the deal on lunch in Venice! Nowhere else that we have found has this much variety and quality for under $20 for three courses. Take a look at their menu online and see what we mean. And the next time you’re in the Venice area, be sure to stop in at Joe’s. Whether it’s for their three-course lunches, their prix-fixed dinners, or just to indulge in a cold creative concoction at the cozy intimate bar, you’ll be glad you visited!

  • ESTABLISHMENT / DECOR: Upscale, yet has a casual feel. Cozy, yet possesses a spacious ambiance. Gets busy, yet we never felt as thought we were forgotten at any point during our visit.
  • FOOD / DRINK: Refreshing Watermelon Agua Fresca coolers, a choice selection of wines and cocktails and eye-catching culinary presentations worthy of being placed in national food magazines. The menu items are full of flavor and creatively engineered.
  • LOCATION: Joe’s is located at 1023 Abbot Kinney Boulevard in Venice, CA 91411.
  • HOURS: Joe’s is available for lunch Tuesday through Friday from Noon – 2:30 PM, dinner on Sunday and Tuesday through Thursday from 6 PM – 10 PM, then on Friday and Saturday from 6 PM – 11 PM, brunch Saturdays and Sundays from 11A to 2:30 PM. Joe’s is closed on Mondays.
  • SERVICE / STAFF: Marguerite was our server, and was professional, suggested favorites on the menu and gracious. All other staff we interacted with were friendly and very assisting as well.
  • PRICE / VALUE: Happy, happy, happy. Where else can you find such value for two lunches with such variety at these prices?
  • CORKAGE FEE: $25 per bottle.
  • PARKING: $2 with restaurant validation located in the lot behind the restaurant.
  • TOTAL BILL: Our two three-course lunches at $19 per meal plus a Watermelon Agua Fresca and a green tea came to a total of $50.03 (including tax).

Joe's Restaurant on UrbanspoonJoe's Restaurant on Restaurantica

Joe's Restaurant Reviews

* Menu and prices subject to change without notice.

TRATTORIA AMICI @ BEVERLY TERRACE HOTEL… “You’ll Feel Like Family!”

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The word ‘trattoria’ in Italian translates to ‘an informal Italian-style eating establishment with a neighborhood feel and the intention of making customers feel like they’re part of the family’. ‘Amici’ in Italian means ‘friends’. Trattoria Amici offers proportionate servings of both. We visited this surprising eatery tucked alongside the Hotel Beverly Terrace at the corner of Doheny Drive and Santa Monica Boulevard in Beverly Hills on two ocassions within a week of each visit. Our first trip was so incredible, we had to revisit the restaurant again before writing this review. As we suspected it would be, the service, cuisine and attention to detail were all outstanding once again.

Red cloth napkins and bright white tablecloths adorn the several bistro-style tables both indoors and on the garden patio. Tall wrought iron gates welcome you into the dining establishment’s main entrance as you walk inside along a red carpet. A natural carved hedge surrounds the outdoor dining section giving it a cozy and intimate feel, while tiny white twinkling lights are strung overhead and in the surrounding foliage. Walking into this Italian venue could not be more welcoming if it tried. We immediately felt at home as we entered this delightfully amiable neighborhood dwelling.

The owners make a successful attempt at creating the perfect setting for an intimate feasting experience. As you can see in the photos above, fresh vibrant-colored flowers are placed on each table creating a romantic allure that cannot be resisted. The flickering votive candles also add to the delightful ambiance.

Trattoria Amici offers a simple $15 corkage charge for patrons who choose to bring in their own bottles of wine to enjoy with their meal. I loved the way our waiter used the foil of the wine bottle to suspend its cork! Just a very creative little “extra” that is one of the many things this great Italian restaurant presents to its customers. The above larger picture is of our wine bottle once the cork was attached via the foil by our clever waiter. The two smaller images are of our table after our vino was opened and poured and Trattoria Amici’s bread basket accompanied by marinated fresh tomatoes and a Cannellini Bean Dip that’s just insanely delicious!

Zuppa Di Lenticchie Pinaci

Let’s start with soup! The delectable creamy Zuppa Di Lenticchie Pinaci is an organic lentil soup with fresh julienne spinach. Catchy to the eye as well as the palate, this starter is incredibly savory and enriched with only the best of ingredients. It’s perfect for a cool evening or anytime you feel like having a comforting bowl of healthy goodness!

Artichoke Puree Soup Special

Another special soup offering was the Artichoke Puree Soup above. This starter was incredible tasting and every bite included the flavor of artichoke. Simply delicious!

Parmigiana Classica Di Pollo

If you love Chicken Parmesan…I mean really LOVE the dish, you have to have it at Trattoria Amici! The Parmigiana Classica Di Pollo is a lightly breaded paillard “parmigiana” with fresh mozzarella and tomato sauce. My husband loved the way the chef served this dish. The chicken is pounded very thin, unlike other versions we’ve enjoyed. It was a nice change with all of the expected flavor and savory tomato sauce one could want.

Polleto Al Mattone Alla Fiamma

I thoroughly enjoyed the Polleto Al Mattone Alla Fiamma, which is the restaurant’s version of a half chicken that’s flame broiled with wild herbs and garlic then served with hearty potatoes and seasonal vegetables. The chicken was tender, moist and well-prepared. I finished the entire thing leaving nothing on my plate!

Bolognese Sauce and Fettuccine Alla Bolognese Di Vettelo

The chef was kind enough to prepare a tasting of their veal Bolognese sauce for my husband. This lucious bowl of heavenly Bolognese convinced my husband to order the Fettuccine Alla Bolognese Di Vetello (top right photo). With its homemade fettuccine and old fashioned veal ‘Bolognese’ sauce, a satisfied smile crossed my husband’s face. A very good sign, as he is pretty critical of most cuisines we experience.

Lasagne Alla Piemontese Di Tacchinella

I especially enjoyed the Lasagne Alla Piemontese Di Tacchinella above. This homemade lasagna with a turkey ragu and tomato sauce was tasteful, flavorsome and gratifying all at once. Have we mentioned how amazing Trattoria Amici’s tomato sauce is? In a word, it’s downright scrumptious!

Grilled Dover Sole

Above, the grilled Dover Sole presented with seasonal vegetables and topped with capers was a tasty and light choice and was one of the specials for the evening.

Grilled Lobster & Apple Salad

The Grilled Lobster & Apple Salad (above and below) was refreshing and perfect for when you want something filling, light and savory.

Grilled Lobster & Apple Salad

For dessert, we chose two sorbet selections. The Coconut Sorbet is offered in an actual coconut shell! We adored this presentation! (Another “little thing” that makes such a difference in one’s dining venture at this restaurant!) This sorbet is large enough to share between two people, and the sweet indulgent flavor will prove astonishing when you try this chilled dessert. The powdered sugar and grated coconut on top was also a nice touch.

Coconut Sorbet

Below, the Peach Sorbet is served in a frozen hollowed-out fresh peach then garnished with a frozen slice of the fruit. Yet another ingenious presentation from the kitchen of Trattoria Amici!

Peach Sorbet

Another nice touch at Trattoria Amici is the fresh-baked chocolate-chip cookie plate that is promptly delivered to your table to enjoy. These morsels of melty milk chocolate and sweet cookie are drizzled with more chocolate on top and garnished with a sprinkling of powdered sugar. Just delicious! These actually reminded me of baking cookies as a child, bringing back wonderful memories from many years ago.

House Baked Chocolate Chip Cookies

No matter what attractive options from the menu you choose, you will not go wrong. In fact, you’ll feel a bit as though you’ve dined at a cozy eatery in Italy, and you’ll be left wanting to repeat your experience over and over!

  • ESTABLISHMENT / DECOR: Intimate interior and garden patio setting. Romantic and worthy of a medal for the exceptional ambiance!
  • FOOD / DRINK: Outstanding, authentic, memorable cuisine that will have you coming back for more.
  • LOCATION: Trattoria Amici is located on the side of the Hotel Beverly Terrace on the corner of Doheny Drive and Santa Monica Boulevard at 469 North Doheny Drive in Beverly Hills, CA 90210.
  • HOURS: Open daily for dinner from 5:30 PM to 10:30 PM, Monday through Saturday for lunch from 12 PM to 2:30 PM, and every Saturday for brunch between 11:30 AM and 2 PM. Remember that reservations are highly recommended, especially on the weekends, due to the available space and popularity of the establishment.
  • SERVICE / STAFF: Our server, Jason, was exceptional both times we dined at Trattoria Amici. Unmatched customer service, friendly demeanor, sincere personal service and incredible attention to detail.
  • PRICE / VALUE: We agree with the price range at this wonderful Italian eatery. Moderate prices for delicious authentic Italian cuisine!
  • CORKAGE FEE: $15 per bottle.
  • PARKING: Parking is available along the fence opposite of the restaurant, as well as with the Hotel Valet.
  • TOTAL BILL: On our first visit last Friday evening, we ordered a glass of Cabernet, an Arnold Palmer, the Zuppa Di Lenticchie, the Chicken Parmigiana, the Lasagne Alla Piemontese and the Coconut Sorbet for a total of $75.79 (including tax). Our most recent visit included a corked bottle of Pinot Noir we brought in for a $15 corkage charge, as well as the Fettuccine Alla Bolognese, the Polletto Al Mattone Alla Fiamma and the Peach Sorbet for a total of $66.78 (including tax). Both phenomenal experiences well worth the splurge!

Trattoria Amici on Urbanspoon

Amici Trattoria on Restaurantica

Trattoria Amici Restaurant Reviews

* Menu and prices subject to change without notice.

CAFE 4750 @ RITZ-CARLTON AMELIA ISLAND… “Beach Elegance on Amelia Island!”

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Cafe 4750 is located at the Ritz-Carlton Amelia Island Resort in Florida. When people think of Florida, they tend to conjure up images of blue water, sandy beaches, warm gulf winds and relaxation.  Well, you’ll receive all of those things plus so much more at this location. And if you’re ever in the area, you should definitely try out Cafe 4750.

We had a meeting to attend while we were there, but decided to grab a quick bite before leaving for that. We wound up at this casual beach restaurant at the resort. Below is a photo of our view from the table where we were seated.

Palm trees abound here everywhere you look. Sprawling manicured grass lawns stretch throughout the property and no detail is left unnoticed…

It was the perfect afternoon for a perfect refreshing cocktail, and the Cafe 4750 bar concocted these lovely beverages for us.  A Rum and Coke on the left, and my choice, their Cafe 4750 Lemonade…

We enjoyed their fresh Caesar Salad with olives, biscuit croutons and white anchovies…

Caesar Salad With Olives, Biscuit Croutons and White Anchovies

Since we were watching the time, we decided to just share the Grilled Salmon Sandwich. It was scrumptious with its arugula, roasted red peppers, tomatoes and spicy Aiolo on a honey wheat bun. Served with crispy savory fries on the side, this was a terrific quick and satisfying lunch on the go…

Grilled Salmon Sandwich With Fries

Just steps from Cafe 4750 is the beautiful shore, white sand dunes and a beach that stretches as far as the eye can see…

After our meeting, we returned to Cafe 4750 before turning in for the night and enjoyed dessert! The 4750 Chocolate Cake and the Lemon Curd Tart with a house-made honey meringue…

4750 Chocolate Cake and Lemon Curd Tart

  • ESTABLISHMENT / DECOR: Cafe 4750 is a beautiful restaurant with a beachy open ambiance. With seating both inside and outdoors on the patio with views of the white sand dunes and sprawling grass lawns of the property, you will feel at ease as warm gulf breezes wash over you while you dine.
  • FOOD / DRINK: The grilled salmon sandwich was incredible and fresh-tasting, while the sides and refreshing beverages were a satisfactory compliment.
  • LOCATION: Cafe 4750 is located at the Ritz-Carlton Amelia Island Resort at 4750 Amelia Island Parkway in Amelia Island, FL 32034.
  • HOURS: Cafe 4750 is an all-day dining establishment for Breakfast, Brunch, Lunch and Dinners. Please call for times and meal service.
  • SERVICE / STAFF: Exemplary, customer-oriented and attentive to guests’ needs.
  • PRICE / VALUE: Thrilled with the restaurant’s reasonable prices for being on a resort. No complaints here.
  • CORKAGE FEE: Expect to pay near $25 per bottle at this property.
  • PARKING: Our vehicle was placed in the care of the hotel Valet service.
  • TOTAL BILL: Our total bill was under $40 for the Grilled Salmon Sandwich, the Caesar Salad and two cocktails (including tax). It was just a short stop before we continued on our way to meet others, but for what it was, we were extremely pleased by all facets of the experience.

Cafe 4750 on Urbanspoon

The Ritz Carlton Cafe 4750- Amelia Island Restaurant Reviews

* Menu and prices subject to change without notice.

GEOFFREY’S… “A Malibu Tradition Not to Be Missed!”

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Not many restaurants possess the right to claim that they present unparalleled cuisine, impeccable service AND a perfect location. However, Geoffrey’s in sunny Malibu, California certainly owns that right. The views alone from the open air al fresco patio overlooking the sparkling azure waters of the Pacific Ocean are enough to cause momentary euphoria. Truly one of Malibu’s favorite locales to satisfy even the most discriminative gastronomes, Geoffrey’s takes the lead for lavish dining, relaxing views and consistent exceptional service.

My husband and I and some out-of-town friends were enjoying the beautiful weather handed to us on a perfectly clear sunny afternoon. As we drove along scenic PCH, we pulled into Geoffrey’s, unbenounced to our company. To start, cocktails fit the mood of the day with seagulls singing their happy melody along the clifftops, pelicans diving for their sustenance for the afternoon in the distance, and waves crashing against the shore below.

The feel of Geoffrey’s is very person-able and welcoming. Round strategically-placed tables cover the patio sheltered by tall beige umbrellas.  Comfortable rattan chairs surround each table while a flowing fountain and reflective mirrors enhance the environment. Refreshing ocean breezes sneak in and out of the open dining expanse in complimentary rhythm with the tide below as you sip on a cocktail before enjoying an amazing meal, and all in the world seems right…even if just for a few moments in time.

Geoffrey’s offers a varied multitude of cuisine options to choose from.  Their Brunch menu presents such selections as Ahi Tuna Tartare, Baked Brie, Steamed Maine Mussels, an Artisan Cheese Plate, Crab Cakes, Specialty soups, salads and Seasonal Oysters to start your meal off right. Brunch entree choices include such fare as the Mediterranean, grilled Ahi Nicoise and Maine Lobster salads, complimented by a select array of Benedicts such as the Scotch, Crab Cake and Lobster Cake variations.  Non-salad entrees include the likes of French Toast and Quiche dishes, salmon and scallop selections and Seafood Paella, Grilled Filet Mignon, and Sea Bass and Chicken Picatta offerings leaving something for everyone’s taste, desire and cravings to be delighted and satisfied at this fine food establishment.

The cocktails we had were refreshing and crisp. Below, we indulged in Geoffrey’s Pear Martini (Absolut Pear Vodka,Triple Sec and a Bartlett pear puree), the Geoffrey’s Famous Bloody Mary (Absolut Pepper Vodka mixed with their Unique Bloody Mary Mix), the Kiss On the Beach (Absolut Vodka, Peach Schnapps, splash pf pineapple, orange and cranberry juice)…

…we also enjoyed an Antioxidant Mojito (Veev Acai Spirit, fresh mint leaves, fresh blueberries and a splash of soda), and a flavorsome glass of Pinot Noir (below)…

We started with the Ahi Tuna Tartare. An eye-catching presentation, vibrant sauces and crunchy wonton triangles. This appetizer served its purpose and was soon devoured by the four of us. The ahi is gently mixed with avocado, scallions, ginger, and red onions, then topped with tobieko caviar. This tartar dish lands on the Savor Hour list as a second #1 right beside another restaurant’s rendition in Newport Beach that we commonly frequent. Two #1 tuna tartar dishes, you ask? Yes…they’re both just that incredible.

Ahi Tuna Tartare

The Kobe Burger is one not to miss. Tender Kobe beef, horseradish cheddar cheese, smoked bacon, a roasted shallot Aioli and a tasty bun create the perfect union of flavors. Geoffrey’s Spicy Shrimp Salad with tamarind-marinated grilled shrimp, baby arugula, grilled corn and jicama are nicely complimented with a spicy Asian vinaigrette (both below).

Kobe Burger and the Spicy Shrimp Salad

Scotch Benedict

The Scotch Benedict (toasted croissant, smoked salmon, rosemary potatoes, hollandaise sauce with a fresh fruit side) offered aromatic joy when it was brought to our table. The Grilled Filet Mignon with fresh vegetables (below) was tender and perfectly prepared.

Grilled Filet Mignon with Fresh Vegetables

Shiitake Omelet

Above, one of our guests enjoyed the Shiitake Omlette (Shiitake mushrooms, garlic, shallots, tomatoes, and Brie cheese with roasted potatoes and fresh fruit), while I delighted in one of my favorite dishes: the Seafood Paella (prawns, mussels, Manila clams, scallops, chorizo, chicken and saffron rice in a heavenly seafood broth) shown below.

Seafood Paella

Brunch at Geoffrey’s has become a Malibu tradition not to be missed. You will leave with a sense of tranquility in your mind, with a peacefullness you hadn’t arrived with and a gastronomical experience to rival any oceanfront venue on PCH!

  • DECOR / ESTABLISHMENT: Hands down, one of the best views for Brunch anywhere along PCH. A tiny bit of luck with the weather and a fog-free day and you’ve got the perfect setting for a weekend Brunch!
  • FOOD / DRINK: Refreshing crisp cocktails, freshly-prepared fare and unique presentation of dishes come together to crate the perfect scenario for anyone’s culinary cravings.
  • LOCATION: Geoffrey’s is located at 27400 Pacific Coast Highway in Malibu, CA 90265.
  • HOURS: Lunch is available Monday through Friday from 11:30AM to 3:30PM, Dinner is served Sunday through Thursday from 4PM to 10PM then from 4PM to 11PM Fridays and Saturdays.  Brunch can be enjoyed Saturdays and Sundays from 10AM to 3:30PM.
  • SERVICE / STAFF: Attentive waitstaff expects your next request almost magically at times as they exhibit unmatched service to every diner.
  • PRICE / VALUE: Value for the service, cuisine, initial presentation and views is quite obvious at Geoffrey’s.  It is perfect for Brunch, entertaining friends and out-of-town guests, and celebrating special occassions!
  • CORKAGE FEE: $25 per 750ml bottle (two bottle max)
  • PARKING: Valet parking is available for $6, which is added to your total bill.  You may also look for a parking spot on PCH in front of the restaurant, but it can be difficult to find as Geoffrey’s is an extremely popular establishment.
  • TOTAL BILL: Our final bill, which included the Kobe Burger, Shrimp Salad, Tuna Tartar, Grilled Filet Mignon, Scotch Benedict, Shiitake Mushroom Omlet, Seafood Paella, five cocktails, a large bottle of Pellegrino, and the valet charge automatically added to our bill and a corkage charge of $25 for a bottle of champagne we brought from our wine locker to cork there came in right under $300, but was well worth the splurge! 

Geoffrey's Malibu on Urbanspoon

Geoffrey's Restaurant Reviews

*Menu and prices subject to change without notice.