By K.L. Riley

Geoffrey’s restaurant in Malibu California changed my entire perspective on patio dining. This classic, cozy fine dining establishment, nestled in the California coast line along the Pacific Coast Highway, has a rich history and classic style that makes for a truly special experience. There are fire pits to warm lovers as they dine by the Oceanside and almost every table is tactfully arranged so that patrons can receive the spectacular view of the Pacific Ocean. It seemed as though the ocean was a part of our meal, like it was sitting at the table with us listening to our conversation occasionally interjected with the sound of the waves crashing against the shore. This is definitely the kind of place you will want to bring someone special.

Our meal started as all my meals do, with me meticulously studying the wine list. The wine list at Geoffrey’s is very integrated and well balanced. The list includes an assortment of wines from all the major wine growing regions around the world including Burgundy, Spain, North America, Australia, and of course, Bordeaux. I decided to order Bordeaux because any occasion is a good occasion to drink a nice Bordeaux and I thought my date would enjoy something out of the ordinary. I found the food menu to be quite palatable and it was difficult to settle on any particular item because everything looked so good. After about ten minutes of deliberations we selected our appetizer and entrees and placed our order with our server. The appetizer, Baked Brie in a puff pastry with Beurre Blanc, roasted pine nuts, and a pear chutney was a delightfully delicate and savory dish. The brie melted in my mouth and the pine nuts created a nice texture contrast to the smooth creaminess of the cheese. All of this was accentuated by a light layer of honey butter brushed over the pastry. The pear chutney really made this dish, in my opinion. The puree was sweet and really brought out the saltiness of the brie. In addition to our wonderful appetizer Geoffrey’s also features Moroccan spiced shrimp, lobster and scallop ceviche, golden beet salad with a herbed goat cheese, amongst others. At this point our palettes were extremely satisfied and we waited with enthusiasm for the next course. My date chose the oven roasted chicken with bravo sage cheddar potato risotto, fresh broccolini, and a whole grain mustard sauce. Under normal circumstances we don’t order chicken but it looked so good on this menu we couldn’t resist. It was tender and succulent, a hearty chicken breast over an al dente risotto, full of flavor with a hint of zest.; All flavors working together, not one overpowering the other. I ordered the grilled 8oz. Angus filet mignon with a chanterelle mushroom potato risotto, grilled asparagus, over a cabernet sauce. This too was extremely tender, rich and hearty. The cabernet sauce added a compact flavor to the steak as well as complimenting the creamy risotto. Every bite led to the next until my plate was clear. The asparagus gave the entrée an organic freshness and crunchiness that complimented the smoothness of the steak.

Geoffrey’s has so much to offer from the celebrity sketches above the bar and the incredible view, to the impeccable service and restaurant décor. This is a meal that you will always remember and I can guarantee the food will be just as extravagant as the view.

Geoffrey’s Malibu27400 Pacific Coast Hwy Malibu, CA 90265 (310) 457-1519 http://geoffreysmalibu.com