Duke's Malibu: News & Updates On The Iconic Restaurant

Is it possible for a restaurant to embody the spirit of a legend and weather the storms of nature and circumstance? Duke's Malibu, a beachfront institution in California, has not only strived to do so but has become a testament to resilience and the enduring appeal of Hawaiian culture and the early days of surfing.

Nestled along the iconic Pacific Coast Highway, Duke's Malibu is more than just a restaurant; it's an experience. Inspired by the legendary Duke Kahanamoku, a Hawaiian icon revered as the father of international surfing, the restaurant has brought the essence of Waikiki and the thrill of the waves to the mainland. With its prime oceanfront location, offering over 300 feet of dining space, Duke's provides a spectacular setting, blending breathtaking views with a rich tapestry of surfing and Hawaiian history.

The restaurant's very essence is intertwined with the spirit of Aloha, the warm, welcoming ethos of Hawaii. The menu reflects this, offering island favorites, fresh fish dishes, and tropical cocktails designed to transport diners to a state of relaxation and enjoyment. Whether you're in the Barefoot Bar, enjoying a Lava Flow cocktail, or savoring a meal in the main dining room, the atmosphere at Duke's is designed to evoke the laid-back charm of the islands.

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However, Duke's Malibu's story hasn't been without its challenges. The restaurant, which has occupied its seaside home on the Pacific Coast Highway since 1996 (and even earlier, when it operated under a different name since at least 1915), has faced significant hurdles, most recently and notably the devastating impacts of natural disasters. The restaurant was already preparing to reopen after damage from the January 2025 Palisades fire, which had raged nearby.

Further compounding matters, the coastal area experienced heavy rainfall in February, triggering mudslides that unleashed a torrent of mud and debris across the Pacific Coast Highway and into Duke's parking lot. This wasn't just a minor inconvenience; it caused significant damage to the restaurant, delaying its reopening and impacting the lives of its 130 employees, six of whom lost their homes in the Palisades fire. Among them was Dukes ambassador of aloha, Kathy Kohner, a testament to the personal connection the establishment fosters.

The situation underscores the vulnerability of businesses located in scenic but sometimes volatile coastal regions. The Malibu Times reported in February about the impact on employees. The community rallied to support its local businesses, offering assistance to those affected. News reports and social media highlighted the extensive damage, with images of the parking lot buried in mud, emphasizing the gravity of the situation.

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In a testament to the power of community, reports of mass casualty incident with multiple burn victims at dukes malibu in california, and the restaurant demonstrated resilience, as the owners stated that the closure was temporary. This provided a sense of hope and determination to rebuild, while acknowledging the hardship. The spirit of Aloha, with its emphasis on community and support, seemed to be guiding the response.

The restaurant is not just a place to eat; it's a landmark. The iconic beachfront establishment has served as a place for creating memories. The oceanfront location offers over 300 feet of romantic oceanfront dining and memorabilia from both Hawaiian and California surfing history. The history, the ambience reminiscent of a Hawaiian paradise, the promise of fresh coastal cooking, and the spirit of Aloha are all reasons that have made it a must-visit location.

The menu at Duke's Malibu reflects its Hawaiian-inspired origins. Dishes include fresh fish, passion fruit, red onions, cilantro, tomato, avocado, and tortilla chips. The beverage selection includes tropical cocktails, such as the Lava Flow made with Bacardi white rum, blended with brut cava, Spain pineapple juice, cream of coconut and strawberries, or the option to add Mahina dark rum. The 100% Hawaiian grown fruit juice slushies, which can be customized with vodka, tequila, or rum.

The restaurant offers both indoor and outdoor dining, takeout, and delivery options, along with event spaces. This adaptability has been crucial, particularly in the face of recent challenges. The restaurant's commitment to its patrons and community is demonstrated by the decision to close temporarily during expected high winds and dangerous conditions to ensure the safety of its "Ohana," the Duke's family of employees and patrons. While the restaurant remained closed, support poured in from around the community, reinforcing its importance as more than just a business.

The story of Duke's Malibu is not just about surfing, food, and cocktails; it's about resilience, community, and the spirit of Aloha. While the road to recovery may be challenging, the heart of Duke's Malibu remains strong, fueled by its connection to its namesake, the spirit of surfing, and the unwavering support of its community.

The restaurant, even in the face of adversity, aims to continue delivering memorable experiences, honoring the legacy of Duke Kahanamoku, and sharing the spirit of Hawaii. As the owners plan to reopen, the restaurant's story remains an inspiring example of how a business can endure, adapt, and uphold its core values, all while celebrating the beauty of its location on the Pacific Coast Highway.