Nobu Malibu is known for exquisite cuisine featuring Nobu Matsuhisa’s signature dishes such as Tiradito, Yellowtail Sashimi with Jalapeno, and Black Cod with Miso. We also have some Malibu favorites created by our Executive Chef Gregorio Stephenson including Ribeye with Yuzu Butter Truffle Sauce, Heirloom Tomato New Style, and Kobe Beef with Crispy Shiitake Mushrooms.
The views of the ocean from nearly every seat in the restaurant complement the experience.
Many customers praised the food for its freshness and presentation, particularly highlighting dishes like the Black Cod and Omakase.
Service Issues
Several reviews noted inconsistent service, with some guests experiencing attentive staff while others faced rudeness and neglect.
Atmosphere
The oceanfront setting and ambiance received high marks, with many enjoying the views and overall vibe of the restaurant.
Reservation Problems
Multiple customers reported issues with reservations, including being seated at undesirable tables despite prior requests.
Value for Money
While some found the experience worth the high prices, others felt the food and service did not justify the cost.
MK
Melisse K
3 days ago
4.0
I typically enjoy Nobu, but our most recent visit was disappointing. Given the cost, we expect better service. Our server was inattentive, admitted to delays in placing our orders, and still rushed us to accommodate another reservation. Although the food was excellent, we felt pressured to leave and finished our dessert cocktails on the patio near the entrance. I would not have minded the slower service had we not been rushed. I still recommend Nobu, as this experience is not reflective of their usual standard.
BP
Brittany Price
Jan 4, 2026
5.0
More than Sushi! This is my all-time favorite dining-with-a-view experience in California! I go as often as possible whenever I’m in LA. Sure it’s pricey but you can get sushi 🍣 anywhere. Here you are paying for elevated taste & ambiance! 🤩 Enjoying fresh fish with amazing flavor profiles while Listening to the waves crash 🌊 and catching sun rays ☀️ while vibing with your favorite people gives you a glimpse of the screensaver lifestyle you always wanted! There is also something to be said when you’ve been dining at a place for several years and they are consistently providing the same great taste each time! Some say it’s overrated. I personally think it’s worth the hype! It genuinely never gets old for me!
LL
LillianDeLaLama
Jan 3, 2026
5.0
What a charming place, the oceanfront setting creates a polished, upscale experience from the moment you get there, sushi and hot dishes are beautifully presented and the high quality is a staple there. Attentive service makes it ideal for special occasions or sunset dining. I've been other times there to catch the sunset and its amazing feels like your on vacation
JS
Jonathan Schleyer
Jan 3, 2026
4.0
Great atmosphere right on the beach in Malibu. However service and food presentation were a little sloppy which is shocking given the expectations and price. Examples are sauces with drips on plate, napkins with stains, wait staff looked schlocky (stained clothes, not fitted, bumped into me walking behind me, splashing water over my glass during refills). Took a long time to take our order, second glass of wine took forever and one side dish never came. We asked for extra ginger and wasabi and it came once we were done with dish 🤷🏻♂️. Bathrooms were also dirty (toilet paper on floor and mirror needed wiping - I cleaned it myself because I’m OCD like that and believe in leaving places cleaner than I found them). I’m usually super casual and easy going but we all noticed it and unfortunately it affected our experience. Food was very tasty so we were happy overall but the experience could be better. Posting photos of the dishes that did turn out. Mentioning all this so management can create the delightful guest experience we all expect and they probably hope to deliver.
JX
john xanthopoulos
Dec 30, 2025
5.0
Nobu Malibu offers an exceptional dining experience. The food was incredibly fresh, and the chefs were highly professional, with remarkable attention to detail—you can truly see the effort and care put into every single plate. The tasting menu did an excellent job of elevating Japanese cuisine and showcasing its range and precision.
For me, this was a completely new experience with Japanese cuisine. I tried flavors and dishes that I genuinely loved, and a few that weren’t necessarily my personal preference—but that’s part of the experience, and I appreciated the opportunity to explore something new. The variety of flavors throughout the evening was impressive and memorable.
This has nothing to do with the restaurant itself, but one thing I found surprising was how many people seemed deeply immersed in their phones instead of enjoying the stunning ocean views, the sound of the waves, and the people sitting across from them. When you’re spending $500–$1,000 on a dinner, it feels like an experience meant to be fully present and shared.
Maybe it’s just a California thing—but either way, Nobu Malibu is a place worth savoring in every sense.
How far in advance can I reserve a table and when is the reservation office open?
You can reserve up to 1 month in advance by calling +1.310.317.9140. The reservation office is open daily from 10am to 5pm. If your preferred date and time are not available, please fill out the form below. We will contact you if spots open up. Waitlist requests can only be submitted up to 1 month in advance. Unfortunately, same-day requests cannot be considered.
What is the dress code?
Our dress code is smart/business casual. Jeans are acceptable as long as they are not torn, but flip flops are not permitted.
How can I join the waitlist?
To join our waitlist, please use the OpenTable App to set an alert for the date and time you're requesting. You may need to download the OpenTable App.
Can I order a birthday dessert?
If you decide to purchase a dessert, it will be served with a candle. Additionally, a special cake can be made with 72 hours notice.
What's the credit card policy for large groups?
A credit card is required to hold a table for a party of 5 or more. Cancellations or no-shows must be made by the day before the reservation, otherwise, a $25.00 charge per person may apply.
Do you accept walk-ins?
Yes, walk-ins are welcome. However, reservations are strongly advised for the Sushi Bar and Bar/Lounge. Upon arrival, please get your name on the in-house waitlist.
What are the hours for the reservation office?
The reservation office is open daily from 10:00 am to 5:00 pm.
Does Nobu Malibu accept reservations?
Yes, Nobu Malibu accepts reservations and requires them for guaranteed seating.
What are the dine-in hours at Nobu Malibu?
Nobu Malibu offers dine-in from 12:00 PM to 10:00 PM on weekdays and Sundays, and until 11:00 PM on Fridays and Saturdays.
Can I order delivery or takeout from Nobu Malibu?
Yes, Nobu Malibu offers delivery and takeout services with hours typically from 12:00 PM to 8:30 PM on most days, extending to 9:30 PM on weekends.
What is the dress code at Nobu Malibu?
The dress code is smart/business casual. Jeans without tears are acceptable, but flip flops are not permitted.
How can I make a reservation and what are the office hours?
You can reserve up to one month in advance by calling +1.310.317.9140. The reservation office is open daily from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM.
Does Nobu Malibu accommodate large groups and what is their credit card policy?
A credit card is required to hold a table for parties of 5 or more. Cancellations or no-shows must be made by the day before to avoid a $25 charge per person.
Are walk-ins accepted at Nobu Malibu?
Yes, walk-ins are welcome, but reservations are strongly advised for the Sushi Bar and Bar/Lounge. Upon arrival, please get your name on the in-house waitlist.
What nearby places can I visit before or after dining at Nobu Malibu?
Before or after your meal at Nobu Malibu, you might visit Malibu Beach Villas, Carbon Beach park, or Malibu Beach Club for scenic beach activities.
Are there nearby dining options in Malibu if Nobu Malibu is fully booked?
Nearby dining options include The Malibu Market, Soho House (Mexican cuisine), SAKE HOUSE Malibu, and Nikita Malibu offering Mediterranean dishes.
What entertainment and wellness venues are located near Nobu Malibu?
Nearby entertainment and wellness options include Little Beach House Malibu lounge, Inform Fitness gym, CURE day spa, and Detox Malibu treatment center.