SHANNON URTNOWSKI
Living Editor
Finding a seafood restaurant in Malibu is like spotting a Starbuck’s in an airport. There is almost always one within 100 feet. But, for the really good stuff, you have got to go local.
So, for your next seafood stop, do not settle for your average cup of joe — swim with the big fish at Gladstone’s 4 Fish, located at 17300 Pacific Coast Highway near the Sunset Boulevard.
This world-class-seafood eatery is nestled in the sand and welcomes hungry customers with a red and blue “Gladstone’s 4 Fish” sign that blinks white in captivating fashion.
Though the sign draws you in, the ambiance will definitely keep you.
This nautical themed eatery has an old-fashioned appeal, with wooden walls, ceilings and booths complimented by the black and white photos of old Malibu and the string of red lights lining the walls. Peanut shells cover the floors and the large windows allow for one of the finest beach views in Malibu.
Whether stopping in for breakfast or lunch to watch the waves crash along the coast or going for a romantic dinner for two to watch the sunset, Gladstone’s can accommodate any gathering.
It is definitely a prime choice for those looking for a great, local date spot — and we all know that Pepperdine is lacking in the dating department. With places like Gladstone’s only a few miles down the road, however, there are no more excuses to skip out.
But enough about the decorations and general appeal. Gladstone’s is, after all, a restaurant, so let’s get down to the heart of it — the food.
Though somewhat pricey, both the selections and service are worth the extra dollars.
An average dish at Gladstone’s runs as low as $9.95 for the Grilled Chicken Sandwich and as high as $59.95 for The Alaskan, which is one and a half pounds of extra large king crab and an 8 ounce filet. These dishes are the extremes, though — most cost about $24.
Take the Salmon Stuffed with Crab Meat for $23.95, for example. Succulent crab is folded between a moist slab of salmon, which is grilled to perfection and topped with a light lemon butter sauce. The entree comes with two sides, and customers can choose anything from mashed potatoes to corn on the cob.
The meal would not commence on the right foot without an appetizer and starter, though.
The Crispy Calamari for $12.95 is a great dish with which to begin satisfying your taste buds. Make sure to compliment it with a cup of the appropriately labeled “Chowder that Made Us Famous,” which, due to its salty taste and creamy texture, is among the best you can find anywhere. It only costs $4.95 and goes well with the complimentary sourdough bread loaf.
And, if you still have room at the end of the meal, be sure to order the Hot Fudge Brownie, which is a cake-sized brownie loaded with chocolate and vanilla ice cream, hot fudge, whipped cream, nuts, chocolate chips and topped with a cherry.
This dessert is not for the faint of stomach, but neither are much of the other selections from the menu. At Gladstone’s, you will definitely get your money’s worth.
But, if the prices seem a bit high, no worries. Just request “The Worst Table in the House” when you go to receive a 30 percent discount on your meal, according to junior Joseph Kennedy, who works at Gladstone’s. The table, which is labeled with a wooden sign, is located near the kitchen, meaning your dinner might be noisy, but the discount is a perk.
All-in-all, Gladstone’s offers a satisfactory dining experience. The restaurant is not a well-kept secret among locals, though, so be sure to call ahead to make a reservation. If you do not, the wait could be anywhere from 30 to 45 minutes, depending on the night.
Parking is convenient, though, as Gladstone’s offers a valet service for about $5.
So, grab the gang and head to Gladstone’s — just look for the flashing lights. Granted, the restaurant will probably not become your everyday dining destination, but to avoid your next seafood flop avoid the usual local stop.
11-02-2006
