by Chrissy Iley
No one should come to LA without visiting Geoffrey’s in Malibu. The setting is as near to perfection as possible. The views of the ocean as it ripples under sunlight, dramatic skies, fantastical palms – and a cocktail. Any kind of stress or work horror that comes from the City of Angels can be instantly relieved by this beautifully calming experience.
They know their market well. The mojito with berries was called the Antioxidant Mojito. Have some health with your alcohol.
The menu is seafood heavy – lobster risotto with juicy scallops. Large fat coconut shrimps. Fluffy poached eggs with salmon or spinach. A tofu style stir fry with a spicy Asian touch. They are all light but delicious.
The waiters are kind and attentive and the whole experience a complete treat.
About 100 miles south, just north of San Diego, we have the resort of Del Mar known for his racecourse. In San Diego itself you can visit the hotel, the palace of kitsch, where Marilyn Monroe filmed Some Like It Hot.
Del Mar itself has a suburban vibe with a slight edge which is kind of relaxing. Best restaurant there is Pacifico. They offer a special Sunset Menu, which is marvellous value and features the delicious sugar salmon. It takes like salmon candy, a fabulous mix of extremes – maple and salt combine in a wonderful explosion. The fondant potato is like a tasty cloud. The mulligatawny soup comforting and smart, filled with healthy vegetables.
They bring you the cocktail menu on an iPad so you can touch it, enlarge it, pore over it, and then finally decide. I went for the cinnamon margarita. Again you expect salt and you get sweet, spice and all things nice.
Pacifica del Mar, 1555 Camino Del Mar #209, Del Mar, CA, www.pacificadelmar.com
Geoffreys Malibu, 27400 Pacific Coast Highway, Malibu, CA, www.geoffreysmalibu.com