Paradise Cove Beach Cafe Awards

Paradise Cove Beach Cafe Restaurant Review:

About the restaurant: Bob Morris' father, Papa Joe, opened this café in the 1970's, tucked away in Paradise Cove. It has since become an ultra-popular weekend getaway, especially for the patio right on the sand. Lining the walls of this multi-room beach shack are vintage photos of Malibu.

Food: Breakfast features massive omelets or carrot cake waffles. At lunch and dinner, there are pedestrian fish, shrimp or beef tacos, accompanied by herb-flecked rice, black beans and tomato-studded guacamole. Burgers are average, and the fried fish sandwich is heavy. More interesting are the fried macadamia coconut shrimp and Parmesan-crusted halibut. For "landlubbers," expect barbecue chicken or New York steak, but be warned they are much more expensive than standard beach fare. For dessert, there’s "Mile High" chocolate cake with a dozen layers and Key lime pie. Unless you want to spend a long time at the Mojito Hut, waiting for the lobster-shaped pager to buzz, arrive early or make a reservation. If you do encounter a wait, a good option is to order from a beachside take-out window, which features a somewhat limited menu but offers quick service and tables overlooking the Pacific.