Duke's Malibu reopens a year after Palisades Fire, mudslide repairs

Duke's in Malibu reopens after 14 months

After dealing with the Palisades Fire and then a subsequent mudslide, Duke's in Malibu is finally reopening its doors.

LOS ANGELES - Duke’s Malibu has officially reopened, signaling a major milestone in the community’s long-term recovery following the Palisades Fire.

What we know:

The Hawaiian-themed restaurant and bar, a longtime staple of the coastal community, survived the fire but was forced to close for a year after heavy rains triggered a massive mudslide that sent four feet of debris into the structure. The damage led to a full interior renovation and the layoff of 126 employees.

For many people, the establishment is more than a restaurant — it’s a sign of resilience.

"After this amount of time and just seeing so many familiar faces, it’s just really special," Duke’s Malibu general manager Jimmy Chavez said.

Duke's Malibu reopens after Palisades Fire, mudslides

The reopening features the return of the original management team and executive chef, signaling a major milestone in the community’s long-term recovery efforts.

On Friday, customers came from out of state and out of the country to visit the beachfront eatery, located at 21150 Pacific Coast Highway.

"I saw it on the news it was opening day, and I thought it would be a great way to come and support the community," one customer said. "I love Duke’s. It’s just a landmark."

The restaurant still has its Aloha spirit and signature mai tais, but customers will also notice several newly redesigned elements after the renovation.

"There’s elevated booths. We redid the patio, which got completely destroyed by the mudslide, so the view is even better than it was, and I think it’s one of the best views in L.A.," Chavez said.

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The deck has also been replaced, allowing guests to once again gaze out at the Pacific Ocean while dining and watching the sunset.

Named for legendary Hawaiian surfer and Olympic swimmer Duke Kahanamoku, the beachfront restaurant opened on Pacific Coast Highway nearly 30 years ago.

For many visitors, Duke’s Malibu represents more than just a dining experience.

"My husband and I got married here in 1991. It’s a special place," customer Luisa Ashley said. "I’m a widow, so this is a special memorial place for me. I love it."

For others across Los Angeles County, the reopening represents hope after devastating losses from the fire.

"I’m glad to see all this. I lost my home in Altadena. I don’t want to cry — this is wonderful to see new beginnings coming back. We’re resilient," one Altadena resident said.

The Palisades Fire destroyed more than 6,800 structures across the region. Duke’s large parking lot also served as a staging area for firefighters and first responders battling the blaze.

"It gives a little bit of normal. It will be a while before it’s actually what we remember it as, but it feels great," Chavez said.

What we don't know:

For now, restaurant management says Duke’s will operate four days a week, typically from noon until 7 p.m. or 8 p.m., while construction and staffing continue to stabilize. The Barefoot Bar and dining room are reopening first, with plans to eventually return to full-time hours as the next chapter of recovery continues along Pacific Coast Highway.

The restaurant is also planning a large celebration this summer to mark its 30th anniversary.

Duke's Malibu to reopen Mar. 13

The restaurant has been closed for nearly 14 months following the Palisades Fire and subsequent mudslide.

What you can do:

• Visit the Restaurant: Support the recovery by visiting Duke’s at 21150 Pacific Coast Hwy, Malibu, CA.
• Check the Schedule: Since hours are limited to four days a week, call ahead or check their social media before heading out.
• Support Local: Explore neighboring businesses along the PCH that are still in the process of rebuilding from the fire and mudslide damage.