Pita Bu – Malibu
A popular place for the area, I join its army of supporters
I was so glad to discover Pita Bu. I came in repeatedly, thoroughly impressed with the freshness and approach. In Malibu it is difficult to be mesmerised by anything, constantly hopping from one place to the next, setting yourself up for big disappointment. This is another business sitting on the roadside along the PCH. It would be hard to spot if you were not driving by in your car, on your way to somewhere else. If you do go past, stop, park and go in. Especially if you need to get out for something to eat anyway.
You can see the salad is fresh and ready to be used, vibrant in colour, the mise en place all in its place — good signs. I stood staring at the menu for a long time, unable to make up my mind. The people are kind; they tried to help, but I said, “It’s OK, I just need a while longer.” Finally, the choice was made: fish tacos. And what delicious ones these were. Generously filled — if I had to be critical, there was a lot of sauce dripping out, but still, no complaints. The fish inside surprised me; it was better than most I have had in restaurants here. Perfectly cooked, with the surrounding ingredients all playing a role. I have used the word fresh already, but I must mention it again, because it was so relieving for me to have food that had just been prepared. You could really notice that visually before, as you were standing there waiting, and after, as you took your first bite.
On Instagram — yes, that dreaded word — they do look miles bigger than what I got, but that could be the camera and the theatrics of the platform. However, this was one of the best lunches I had in this area, apart from Pura Vida, more on that in another post. The two sat side by side, so whenever I felt hopeless, not wanting to have my lunchtime destroyed, these were the safe contenders.
On another occasion I tested out the falafel pitta wrap and one of the homemade soups, which I took “to go” rather than sitting across from the ocean. The standard didn’t waver. It led me to look into who was behind this, because I sniffed out a chef background, like a dog hunting for truffles. And I was right. I could just tell. This is proper food, things you want to eat that rely on strong flavours, intertwined with crisp green salads, tomatoes, and colourful slaws. Tahini and hummus are staples, and the deep-fried chickpea balls in the pittas will keep you going back for more. These are all ingredients that I love, partly because of the health-conscious factor too. A popular place for the area, I join its army of supporters.
La Reine Gourmande is a professionally trained chef, former dancer, and lifelong food obsessive with a deep passion for haute cuisine and global gastronomy. She has dined her way through the world’s top restaurants while honing her culinary skills at L’École Ferrandi in Paris and the Ashburton Cookery School in the UK. Blending her love for food and fashion, she offers a unique perspective on what to eat — and what to wear — on your next culinary adventure.
