HANNA CHU & ANELA HOLCK
Assistant A&E Editor and Assistant Photo Editor
Avoid the cliché dinner-and-a-movie dating scene, and be charming at breakfast instead. It’s more creative and can be easier on your wallet. Located next to Cook’s and the infamous Dume Room is Lily’s Cafe & Pastries, one option for a morning rendez-vous.
Visitors are greeted with old men reading newspapers and a friendly team behind the counter ready to take orders. With nothing but some random photo art of American cities hanging on its plain walls, the eatery environment is slightly boring but comfortable.
Seating is limited because there are only a half-dozen tables inside. There are also a couple of round stone tables just outside in the plaza, though.
Sitting outside might be more ideal for a date. Visitors can enjoy a breath of fresh air outside while taking in the ambiance of the classical music playing in the general plaza. And let’s not forget the opportunity to watch all the eccentric Malibu locals.
While the eatery’s atmosphere may not be the most ideal for a romantic breakfast, the food more than compensates. The breakfast menu is limited, but what Lily’s offers will fulfill most appetites’ desires. The breakfast burrito is a favorite that’s popular among locals. It comes in medium or large size, the latter of which offers guys the perfect occasion to wow gals and prove their manhood, all for just $5. The tortilla is stuffed with beans, eggs, bacon and cheese, and tongue-burning hot sauce is also included on the side. That first bite just might distract you from what should be the primary focus of the meal — your date.
For a slightly smaller meal, the $4 eggo bagel is also an excellent choice. Minus the beans, it has the same ingredients as the burrito (eggs, bacon and cheese) between two bagel halves.
There is also an array of pastries lined at the counter for those in the mood for a lighter, sweeter morning meal. The best drink on the breakfast menu is arguably the orange juice, which is fresh-squeezed to order.
The wait for food is quite long, about 20 minutes. Take this time to walk around the area and see some of Point Dume plaza’s boutiques, which might help in avoiding that awkward date conversation.
Lily’s is known for its simple yet delectable breakfasts, but it’s also a dating hot spot waiting to happen, especially since you can burn those calories afterward with a long walk on the beach.
11-17-2005
