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Best Contemporary American Restaurants in Malibu

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13 restaurants available nearby

A photo of Moonshadows restaurant
1. Moonshadows
4.6
Exceptional(4631)
Price: Expensive
• Contemporary american • Malibu
Booked 73 times today
Nestled in the picturesque Malibu, Moonshadows offers a quintessential Californian dining experience that leaves guests raving about its superb cuisine and stunning ocean views. Celebrated for its contemporary American dishes that embody the spirit of California, Moonshadows excels with a menu that has consistently earned the Wine Spectator's Award of Excellence. Diners frequently commend the "super excellent cuisine" and highlight dishes like the "delicious" lobster ravioli and sea bass which are "sooooo goooood!" The unbeatable combination of flavorful meals, attentive service, and breathtaking scenery ensures that Moonshadows is a must-visit for anyone seeking authentic Californian cuisine in an unforgettable setting.
A photo of Carbon Beach Club Restaurant (The Dining Room) @ Malibu Beach Inn restaurant
2. Carbon Beach Club Restaurant (The Dining Room) @ Malibu Beach Inn
4.7
Exceptional(1126)
Price: Very Expensive
• Contemporary american • Malibu
Booked 10 times today
Experience the quintessence of Californian cuisine at Carbon Beach Club Restaurant in the Malibu Beach Inn, where the ocean meets culinary delight. Nestled in the heart of Malibu, this gem offers an unparalleled dining experience with "breathtaking views" and "decadent coastal cuisine." Guests rave about the fresh, well-presented dishes, describing them as the pinnacle of Californian flavors. The ambience is enhanced by "plush blankets" on chilly evenings and a service described as nothing short of "fantastic." It's the perfect spot for a "romantic dinner" or a special celebration, making every meal memorable with its stunning ocean backdrop and exemplary cuisine.
A photo of The Penthouse Restaurant restaurant
3. The Penthouse Restaurant
4.6
Exceptional(4312)
Price: Expensive
• Contemporary american • Santa Monica
Booked 31 times today
The Penthouse Restaurant in Santa Monica is a crown jewel of Mediterranean cuisine with a Californian twist, offering a dining experience that is as spectacular as the panoramic ocean views it provides. Nestled on the 18th floor, this rooftop culinary paradise boasts dishes that are both "spectacular" and "delicious," according to glowing reviews. The fresh oysters, buttery lobster agnolotti, and divine rib eye showcase the authenticity and quality of the Mediterranean flavors, expertly blended with local ingredients. As guests rave about the "incredible environment" and "amazing staff," it's clear that The Penthouse isn't just a meal; it's a Mediterranean feast for the senses. Whether you're celebrating a special occasion or just treating yourself, this Santa Monica gem promises a memorable dining experience with every visit.
A photo of Citrin restaurant
4. Citrin
4.6
Exceptional(198)
Price: Moderate
• Contemporary american • Santa Monica
Booked 15 times today
Citrin, nestled in the heart of Santa Monica, stands as a beacon of American culinary excellence, under the masterful guidance of Chef Josiah Citrin. Celebrated as a Michelin 2023 awardee, Citrin offers a modern Californian twist to American cuisine, delivering dishes that are both innovative and deeply satisfying. Diners rave about the "phenomenal egg caviar" and proclaim it a place where "every dish was perfect." The restaurant's commitment to quality and service shines, with reviewers noting the "superb" service and memorable experiences like the "best chicken I’ve ever eaten." Citrin is not just a meal; it's a culinary journey that continues to evolve and impress, making every visit uniquely delightful.
A photo of Edgemar Restaurant + Lounge restaurant
5. Edgemar Restaurant + Lounge
4.6
Exceptional(84)
Price: Very Expensive
• Contemporary american • Santa Monica
Booked 20 times today
Now Open! Edgemar is a Modern American neighborhood restaurant located in a historic Frank Gehry-designed building on Main Street in Santa Monica. We offer a unique dining experience that blends global and local influences across our menu, service, and design, all crafted to celebrate the spirit of our community and welcome visitors. Join us for a memorable meal in a one-of-a-kind setting that embodies the true essence of Santa Monica.
A photo of The Mulholland restaurant
6. The Mulholland
4.7
Exceptional(248)
Price: Expensive
• Contemporary american • Calabasas
Booked 11 times today
The Mulholland in Calabasas embodies the spirit of Contemporary American cuisine with a fresh and innovative approach. Helmed by the talented Chef Chris Flint, whose pedigree includes Eleven Madison Park, and Chef Michele Carter, the menu at The Mulholland offers an exquisite blend of seasonal, local, and organic ingredients. Guests rave about the "crave-worthy dishes" that are "artfully crafted," such as the ricotta dumplings and the perfectly cooked scallops. Reviewers consistently praise the "beautiful atmosphere" and "playful spins on classic cocktails," making it a vibrant spot for both locals and visitors. Whether you're dining al fresco on the charming fireplace patio or enjoying the chic indoor ambiance, The Mulholland delivers an authentic and high-quality dining experience that epitomizes top-tier Contemporary American cooking. It's a culinary gem in Calabasas, where each visit promises "a perfect evening" of delightful flavors and impeccable service.
A photo of Melisse restaurant
7. Melisse
4.9
Exceptional(2000)
Price: Very Expensive
• Contemporary american • Santa Monica
Booked 5 times today
Melisse in Santa Monica is a shining beacon of Californian cuisine, where Chef Josiah Citrin’s magic has earned it two Michelin stars. This intimate 14-seat venue offers a unique 2.5-hour culinary journey through an 8-course tasting menu that highlights the freshest ingredients sourced from California farms "from San Diego to Napa Valley." Reviewers have lauded the experience, with one guest sharing, "This dining experience ranks among the top three I have ever had," while another says, "Each dish was delightful both in flavor and presentation." At Melisse, the blend of sophisticated service, exquisite local ingredients, and innovative Californian dishes promises an unforgettable dining adventure.
A photo of The Courtyard Kitchen restaurant
8. The Courtyard Kitchen
4.7
Exceptional(122)
Price: Moderate
• Contemporary american • Santa Monica
Booked 33 times today
The Courtyard Kitchen in Santa Monica has firmly established itself as a premier destination for breakfast enthusiasts seeking a blend of classic charm and contemporary flavors. Praised as the "best breakfast spot in Santa Monica ALL day long," this restaurant offers a delightful culinary experience in its picturesque setting. Diners rave about the "consistently delicious" food, which includes a variety of breakfast favorites crafted from fresh, high-quality ingredients. The ambiance, reminiscent of a cozy Parisian café, along with "attentive and friendly" service, enhances the dining experience, making every breakfast here not just a meal, but a memorable event. Whether it's for the classic omelets or the innovative Day In Cuba cocktail, The Courtyard Kitchen is a true gem that promises a breakfast worth savoring.
A photo of Ivy at the Shore restaurant
9. Ivy at the Shore
4.7
Exceptional(3535)
Price: Expensive
• Contemporary american • Santa Monica
Booked 46 times today
Ivy at the Shore in Santa Monica stands out as a beacon of Contemporary American cuisine, offering a delightful dining experience that consistently impresses. Nestled near the iconic Santa Monica Pier, the restaurant garners praise for its "excellent food" and "fantastic atmosphere," making it a must-visit for both locals and tourists. With dishes that blend creativity with comfort, diners rave about the "lobster scramble and eggs benedict" and the "grilled vegetable salad," each dish showcasing the fresh, vibrant flavors that define great American cooking. The service is repeatedly noted as "professional and friendly," ensuring a memorable culinary journey. Ivy at the Shore embodies the spirit of Southern California dining with its beautiful setting and high-quality fare, making every meal a special occasion.
A photo of Buffalo Club restaurant
10. Buffalo Club
4.3
Awesome(400)
Price: Expensive
• Contemporary american • Santa Monica
Come join us and dine under the stars in our beautiful, lush, English Garden Courtyard. One of the largest outdoor dining spaces in Los Angeles! Visit www.buffaloclub.com for more information and to view all of our covid-19 guidelines.Established in 1994 by Emmy and Golden Globe Award-winning writer Anthony Yerkovich, and featuring the internationally-renowned new American cuisine of Executive Chef Patrick Healy. The Buffalo Club boasts one indoor and two outdoor unique, charming and elegant dining spaces. Visit www.buffaloclub.com for more information.
‘About the restaurant’ descriptions have been generated using an artificial intelligence model comprised of OpenTable proprietary data that has not been independently verified by OpenTable. The content is presented as-is, for informational purposes only.

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