A Tale of Two Restaurants...

Zuma Sushi - Malibu, California - August 19, 2008

So we were driving up the PCH (Pacific Coast Highway), pretty much just gathering in the scenery, (I, of course was looking for something to photograph - but at 60 mph, it was a little difficult) and shortly after sunset, we discovered we were starving. We passed a Mexican restaurant and turned around, only to be honked at.... now why would that happen? Nevermind that our driver had just come to a semi-complete stop to make a left-hand turn on a pretty busy highway. California drivers.... so impatient.

We walked up to the elevated patio (partial outdoor dining) and went to the only open door we noticed. Inside we were greeted by a very attractive blonde hostess who seated us right outside the entry and a table big enough for four hungry men. I have to say that although she was quite attractive, my wife and I would agree that there would be "no friction" - she was a little on the thin side, but not Keira Knightley thin. After the menus were brought, I was the only one excited about being there, since the menus were all over the sushi thing. Woot! Hadn't had sushi in L.A. yet, and I was hoping it was as good as the Taka House in San Diego.

The guys called the hostess over and asked if there was anything besides sushi and she indicated that the restaurant next door (which supposedly was owned by the same people) served Mexican food. BUT, they might not be happy about us sitting over on this side of the patio.... some ancient medieval war which has yet to be resolved. So our hostess went over and offered happy time with the next door cooks and brought over some menus. (Now... keep in mind, she doesn't work at that restaurant and she's just saved them a table and the trouble of having to bring us menus.)

Coral Beach Cantina - Malibu, California - August 19, 2008 (BAD Service)

I order my sushi and my mouth is already starting to water. Spicy tuna and spicy yellowtail rolls were the ticket for me that evening! The guys were still waiting on someone to come over and take their order. When my food arrived, I was happy to see a nice pile of wasabi, which I promptly started adding to my dish of soy sauce.

The sushi was FANTASTIC, although I believe the rice was slightly soft for my taste in sushi. But, overall, I'd have to say this was the best sushi I've ever had - including the Taka House, which was my favorite until now. I savored every bite and finally finished my meal, the guys STILL not having their order taken.

Needless to say, my boss called the hostess over and had her take the menus back to the oblivious people at Coral Beach Cantina in Malibu. I have no clue how the food was, considering nobody in our party was ever spoken to, served, or spit on for that matter. My advice... NEVER go there.... horrible service. (They knew we were there, as the guys has menus and placemats for that restaurant on the table and they served people next to us.)

Conclusion:

Zuma Sushi - Good - Thumb up

Coral Beach Cantina - Bad - Thumb down