Paul V.
Yelp
So you're here... in Malibu, and you're looking for a bite to eat that isn't A) a fast food chain or B) a sit-down money pit. Congratulations! Because if you're in the Malibu Mart area, you're pretty much in one of two locations where finding such a meal is possible (the other being where Lily's Cafe is next to Von's). In the mood for a burger as opposed to the Mexican offered at Howdy's? Malibu Mutt it is.
Star 1 - How was the service and atmosphere?
Especially for being in Malibu, Mutt is about as simple as it gets. Walk up to the counter, place your order, pay and wait. The first glaring issue is that Mutt is cash only. Seriously? What century are we in? Especially in Malibu, where you pay a premium for absolutely everything, you'd think that Mutt's relatively pricey menu would warrant a credit card machine. Besides that, the service is quick. Star Granted.
Star 2 - How were the portions relative to the cost?
Opting to go with the Western Burger ($8.95 before tax) and a Chocolate Milkshake ($4.25 before tax), I was pleased to see that my burger was of a decent size:
http://www.yelp.com/user_local_photos?userid=OKX-V5j_qfuOebeHeWGrHg&select=b-Y1rJ8VRskhr-jO43ssuA
As you can see, the burger is decent, it came packed with a good and fresh patty, and I left full for under $15. Yes, the milkshake was overpriced, but it wasn't enough to warrant the loss of a star. By Malibu standards, Mutt is acceptable in the value department if you want to eat out. Star Granted.
Stars 3/4 - How was the food?
Meh. My burger was good, but honestly nothing special. While I appreciated the fresh ingredients, I wished I was on the other side of the canyon where my $10 could fetch me a beast of a burger virtually anywhere. Additionally, the milkshake was disappointing, and was very clearly made with Hershey Syrup. Single Star Granted.
Star 5 - Would you eat it every day if you could?
Unless you're good and ready for some fancy dining at a cost, Malibu is really a case of pick your poison when it comes to eating out. Outside of chains, (and it should be noted that nearby La Salsa isn't a bad option by any means) the options are typically just shy of that $10 meal range, and as a result I can't honestly say I've ever given this star to a Malibu location. Want to enjoy a meal in Malibu? Go to Ralphs, grab some goodies, and picnic out on the beach. No Star Granted.