Geoffrey's Malibu   

From the 180-degree panoramic vista of the Pacific Ocean to the soundtrack of the stone waterfall at the restaurant's north end, this romantic retreat oozes aphrodisiac design elements and should feature kneepads on the menu for impromptu marriage proposals. Owned by Jeff Peterson, the talented chef and burgeoning restaurateur (who formed Union in Santa Monica), Geoffrey's/Malibu sits cliffside and has the distinct feeling of a place you might have to travel miles in order to experience. While many of LA's surfside dining destinations boast ocean views, once you arrive you learn those three window-side tables are taken. Geoffrey's, on the other hand, lets the ocean dictate its design philosophy by sprawling across almost 75-percent of the restaurant outdoor patio to maximize views for guests. With a menu as impressive as the ocean view, executive chef Shawn Davis has plucked plenty of surprises from earth's great swimming pool. Lobster, oysters, prawns, swordfish and clams all vie for pole position on a delectable New American menu, but the tasty bay scallops over a foie-gras-speckled risotto is a unique, flavorful highlight. The jumbo coconut shrimp with tomato chutney and Asian plum sauce is a perfect prelude to your main course. Whereas most restaurants could get away with serving up Geoffrey's prime geography alone, Peterson and company spend sufficient energy engaging the taste buds of a highly discerning Malibu clientele. And like a few of the celebrities who visit, they succeed beyond anyone's wildest imagination.