'An Honor And A Pleasure': Malibu Kitchen To Close After 22 Years

MALIBU, CA — After 22 years as a local staple for good food and outstanding cars, the Malibu Kitchen will close on Dec. 4, owner Bill Miller announced to Instagram

"It's been an honor and a pleasure taking care of the Malibu , feeding them, and all the people that have come here from all over the world," Miller said said. "It's been an incredible ride."

Miller didn't offer much insight into why the restaurant was closing, but said it may reopen elsewhere in Malibu. Patrons can stay updated on the restaurant's social media.

The Malibu Kitchen has long been a staple for baked goods, deli classics and famous dishes like their meatloaf sandwich. The spot also attracts car-lovers and a regular smattering of vintage and luxury cars. Miller and his "other half," co-owner Judith Haenel, kept the restaurant open during the Woolsey Fire to help feed their community.

Malibu Kitchen will serve one last Thanksgiving meal, doling out pies, turkey, quarts of soup and classic sides. To see the Thanksgiving pickup menu, visit this link.

"Things just change and you have to move on," Miller said. "It's going to be OK. Come in, get your last meatloaf sandwich, or your last thin and crispy cookies — a lot of that will be available online. And your pies — come get your pies."

Miller said he and Haenel are grateful for their time in the Malibu community. It brings Miller great joy when a diner tells him they love the food, or enjoy sitting on the porch, he said.

"Thank you. Thank you for all the years, thank you for a great time and a great life here in Malibu. See you soon," he said.

Many patrons took to social media to express their disappointment and love for Malibu Kitchen, calling the closure an "end of an era" in Malibu.

"From the first time I walked through the creaky screen door at the pre-opening event, to bringing family and out-of-town guests to eat delicious food on the porch, to running into industry friends there...I have so many sweet memories of a very special place and two incredibly generous, talented, loving and caring people. Much love to both of you," one person wrote on Instagram.

"It's hard to imagine [Cross Creek] without Malibu Kitchen. So sad to hear this news. We love you guys and wish you all the best," another person wrote.