My Guide to the Best Outdoor Dining in Thousand Oaks and Malibu
Savor the Neighborhood. Staying at The Creek Retreats places you at the intersection of Southern California’s best flavors. From canyon breakfasts to sunset dinners on the Pacific, explore our curated guide to the region’s most iconic dining.
Call, Book Direct & Save 15%The Best Outdoor Dining
Thousand Oaks & Beyond
One of the greatest perks of staying at The Creek Retreats is my year-round Mediterranean climate. There is nothing quite like a crisp glass of wine or a farm-to-table meal enjoyed under the California sun or a canopy of twinkling patio lights.
Whether you are looking for a romantic date night or a casual family brunch, here is my curated guide to the best outdoor dining in Thousand Oaks, Westlake Village, and Malibu.
Alfresco Perfection: The Best Outdoor Dining in Thousand Oaks & Beyond
"Indulge in the best outdoor dining in Thousand Oaks and its surrounding canyons. One of the signature perks of a stay at The Creek Retreats is our year-round Mediterranean climate, designed for a life lived alfresco. There is nothing quite like a crisp glass of local wine or a farm-to-table meal enjoyed under the golden California sun."
The Stonehaus
(Westlake Village)
A premier enoteca offering a stunning outdoor experience that feels like a trip to the heart of Italy.
VISIT WEBSITETHE VIBE
Authentic European vineyard atmosphere with outdoor fireplaces and cobblestone paths.
BEST FOR
Curated wine flights, premium charcuterie, and fresh wood-fired pizzas.
PROXIMITY
Located just a short drive from The Creek Retreats, making it a perfect afternoon escape.
Coin & Candor
(Westlake Village)
A signature California Brasserie overlooking lush gardens and a soothing tiered waterfall.
VISIT WEBSITETHE VIBE
High-end and sophisticated with expansive views of manicured greenery and waterfalls.
BEST FOR
A celebratory weekend brunch or a refined sunset dinner with seasonal cocktails.
THE EXPERIENCE
A world-class culinary retreat located minutes from your stay at the Four Seasons.
A Culinary Highlight: Coin & Candor
For an authentic Southern California experience, we highly recommend the "Farm-to-Table" excellence of Coin & Candor. They are legendary for their house-milled Red Fife sourdough bread and seasonal ingredients sourced directly from local farmers—a must-visit for travelers seeking true regional flavor.
🍻 Casual & Craft Patios
Great for local brews, lively atmospheres, and hanging out with friends under the California sun.
Tarantula Hill
(Thousand Oaks)
Thousand Oaks' first production brewery featuring a massive, sun-drenched patio and a modern industrial vibe.
VISIT WEBSITETHE VIBE
Lively, high-energy, and family-friendly with plenty of room to spread out.
BEST FOR
Artisan craft beers, local coffee, and delicious wood-fired pizzas.
THE EXPERIENCE
A one-stop shop for socializing, including an on-site artisanal ice cream creamery.
Ladyface Ale
(Agoura Hills)
A neighborhood staple offering award-winning Belgian-style ales and a scenic "outdoor parlor" at the foot of the canyon.
VISIT WEBSITETHE VIBE
Relaxed mountain views and a cozy, traditional European alehouse atmosphere.
BEST FOR
Sampling a tasting flight and enjoying elevated pub fare on the mountain-view patio.
PROXIMITY
A short, beautiful drive through the hills—perfect for a casual afternoon getaway.
🍻 Local Favorites & Lively Vibes
Neighborhood staples perfect for a casual lunch or a high-energy evening under the stars.
Finney’s Crafthouse
A local staple offering a vibrant atmosphere and a massive selection of California craft beers.
VIBE: High-energy gastropub | TRY: Bison Burger
VISIT WEBSITETHE ATMOSPHERE
Energetic and welcoming. Perfect for those looking for a "buzz" rather than a quiet dinner.
HAPPY HOUR
Mon–Fri 3 PM – 5 PM. High value without ever sacrificing culinary quality.
PROXIMITY
Located in Westlake Plaza—ideal for a stroll before or after your meal.
M on High
(Moorpark)
Experience the best lunch in Thousand Oaks and Moorpark on this elevated patio. While we are a favorite for daytime dining, we are also known as one of the most romantic restaurants in Westlake Village's neighboring hills, perfect for an evening under the stars.
VIBE: Modern & Refined | TRY: Chilean Sea Bass
VISIT WEBSITETHE ATMOSPHERE
Fancy enough for a celebration, but relaxed enough for a leisurely Saturday brunch on the patio.
WEEKEND PERK
Outdoor bar hits its stride Friday and Saturday nights with live music and great energy.
THE EXPERIENCE
A world-class culinary retreat located just minutes from your stay at the Four Seasons Westlake Village. Experience the best lunch in Thousand Oaks within a sophisticated, vineyard-inspired setting designed for the discerning palate.
The Local Scene: Finney’s
To experience the best "buzz" in Westlake Village, time your visit for their Legendary Happy Hour (Mon–Fri, 3 PM – 5 PM). It is the perfect opportunity to pair a California craft beer with their famous Bison Burger while enjoying the high-energy atmosphere.
Evening Ambiance: M on High
For a more refined retreat, plan your visit for a Friday or Saturday Night to enjoy live music by the outdoor bar. We suggest ordering the Chilean Sea Bass or Mini Poke Tacos—best enjoyed on the patio under the ambient evening lighting.
Finney’s Crafthouse
Westlake Village"A local staple for a reason. Their outdoor seating is right in the heart of Westlake Village."
The Vibe High-energy gastropub perfect for social buzz and local energy. Must-Try The Bison Burger or the Moroccan Salad.M on High
Moorpark / Thousand Oaks"Elevated patio experience, offering a refined but comfortable space with ambient lighting."
The Atmosphere Modern Californian — sophisticated yet relaxed for weekend brunch. Chef's Choice The signature Chilean Sea Bass.Coin & Candor
Four Seasons Westlake"The pinnacle of the Southern California culinary experience, focusing on farm-to-table."
Signature Item Famous for their house-milled Red Fife sourdough bread. The Philosophy Ingredients are sourced daily from local farmers for peak flavor.Family-Friendly Outdoor Spots
Spacious seating and menus that keep both kids and parents happy.
Planning Your Visit
Looking for outdoor dining in Thousand Oaks? Try the sun-drenched patio at Tarantula Hill.
Searching for the best lunch in Thousand Oaks? Little Calf Creamery is a local favorite.
Planning a date at the most romantic restaurants in Westlake Village? Book a terrace table at Coin & Candor.
Explore all the top patio restaurants in Thousand Oaks and the surrounding canyons below.
Little Calf Creamery
(Thousand Oaks)A hidden gem for families. They have a lovely, relaxed patio where you can enjoy high-quality burgers and sandwiches followed by their famous house-made ice cream.
- The Vibe: Friendly, local neighborhood cafe.
- Best For: A stress-free lunch with the kids.
Side Street Cafe
(Newbury Park)A charming Newbury Park eatery famous for creative Belgian and Liege waffles. The spacious, pet-friendly outdoor patio is a local favorite for weekend brunch.
- The Vibe: Cozy and welcoming.
- Pro Tip: Try the "Hass Queen" waffle for a fresh, avocado-heavy California classic.
- Proximity: It's practically in the backyard of The Creek Retreats.
- Dietary Friendly: Well-known locally for having some of the best gluten-free and vegan waffle options in the area.
🌊 Iconically Malibu
If you’re heading down the canyon, these ocean-front patios are non-negotiable for the ultimate coastal experience.
Little Calf Creamery
(Thousand Oaks)A hidden gem for families. They have a lovely, relaxed patio where you can enjoy high-quality burgers and sandwiches followed by their famous house-made ice cream.
- The Vibe: Friendly, local neighborhood cafe.
- Best For: A stress-free lunch with the kids.
Side Street Cafe
(Newbury Park)Discover a charming Newbury Park eatery renowned for its creative Belgian and Liege waffles—the perfect start to your day. The spacious, pet-friendly outdoor patio is a local favorite for weekend brunch, offering a relaxed atmosphere just steps from your retreat. As the day unfolds, our central location also places you minutes away from the most romantic restaurants in Westlake Village, allowing for a seamless transition from a sunny brunch to an intimate waterfront dinner.
- The Vibe: Cozy and welcoming.
- Pro Tip: Try the “Hass Queen” waffle for a fresh, avocado-heavy California classic.
- Proximity: It’s practically in the backyard of The Creek Retreats.
- Dietary Friendly: Known for the best gluten-free and vegan waffle options in the area.
Ready to experience the best of the Conejo Valley and Malibu?
Check availability at The Creek Retreats and start planning your perfect al fresco getaway.
Call & CheckWork Up an Appetite:
The Top 3 Malibu Hikes
One of the best parts about staying at The Creek Retreats is the proximity to the Santa Monica Mountains. After you've mapped out your dining, it’s time to hit the trails. These three hikes are guest favorites because they offer the biggest "wow" factor for the least amount of effort.
Solstice Canyon: The Tropical Terrace
Vibe: Shaded canyon walk with historic ruins and a waterfall.
The Highlight: Hike to the Roberts Ranch House ruins and enjoy the 30-foot waterfall just steps away.
Escondido Falls: The Tallest Drop
Vibe: Lush, wooded trail leading to a massive limestone waterfall.
The Highlight: The lower falls are easy to access and feel like a tropical rainforest.
Point Dume Cove Trail: The Iconic Overlook
Vibe: Easy bluff-top stroll with 360-degree ocean views.
The Highlight: High-cliffs overlooking the Pacific surf; look for dolphins and filming locations.
Nearby Destinations
| Destination | Experience | Drive Time | Distance |
|---|---|---|---|
| Little Calf Creamery | Casual Dining | 5 mins | 2.1 miles |
| Tarantula Hill Brewing | Craft Beer & Pizza | 7 mins | 3.5 miles |
| The Stonehaus | European Vineyard | 10 mins | 7.2 miles |
| Coin & Candor | Upscale Brasserie | 10 mins | 7.4 miles |
| Lure Fish House | Premium Seafood | 10 mins | 7.6 miles |
| Zinqué | Waterfront French | 11 mins | 7.8 miles |
| Finney's Crafthouse | Modern Gastropub | 12 mins | 8.1 miles |
| M on High | Contemporary Patio | 14 mins | 8.8 miles |
| Point Dume | Scenic Bluff Hike | 24 mins | 16.5 miles |
| Escondido Falls | Waterfall Hike | 26 mins | 18.2 miles |
| Solstice Canyon | Historic Ruins Hike | 28 mins | 19.1 miles |
🏡 Stay Close to the Action
After a day of exploring the best patios in the area, come home to your own private sanctuary. At The Creek Retreats, our suites offer private outdoor spaces where you can enjoy a morning coffee or an evening cocktail in total peace.
Explore my Suites and Book Your Stay DirectlyThe Perfect Crossroads of Coastal Luxury and Local Gems
The Creek Retreats serves as the ultimate home base for foodies and explorers. When you book a stay, you aren’t just getting a premium rental; you are gaining effortless access to the best flavors of the region.
From Malibu Sunsets to Neighborhood Favorites
Indulge in the oceanfront elegance of Malibu Farm or discover the best patio restaurants in Thousand Oaks and the vineyard-inspired charm of The Stonehaus in Westlake Village. Whether you’re craving world-class seafood or a relaxed dessert at Little Calf Creamery, our central location eliminates the stress of long commutes.
One Premier Location. Three Ways to Stay.
I’ve designed this property to be a masterclass in versatility. I have curated this single location to pivot based on exactly what you require, whether rented individually or as a complete compound.
The Layout: A spacious 1 Bedroom, 1 Bathroom designed for comfort and privacy.
Outdoor Living: Features a dedicated private patio equipped with a BBQ, perfect for intimate evening gatherings.
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The Layout: A serene 3 Bedrooms, 2.5 Bathroom main estate sanctuary offering peace and tranquility.
Outdoor Living: Boasts a large terrace with an abundance of premium outdoor furniture to fully enjoy the mountain views.
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The Layout: A modern 1 Bedroom, 1 Bathroom suite with a clean, airy aesthetic.
Outdoor Living: Highlights a large, sprawling patio with plenty of high-end outdoor furniture for coastal-style relaxation.
Call & Inquire Now →Tailored to Your Group Size
Whether you need a single quiet suite or a multi-structure compound for a full production crew, my properties are designed to scale with you.
All units can be rented separately for maximum privacy or in any combination to accommodate larger stays.
All outdoor areas are professionally curated for maximum comfort.
📞 Call to Reserve: (805) 291-7793
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The Creek Retreats: Bespoke Accommodations & Local Charm
Whether you require a refined 3-bedroom sanctuary or a grand 5-bedroom estate, I specialize in providing flexible, fully furnished living solutions tailored to your needs. Each home is a complete turnkey experience, featuring chef-ready kitchens, premium appliances, climate-controlled AC, and high-end finishes throughout. For those navigating insurance-related displacements or renovations, I provide comprehensive Additional Living Expense (ALE) support—including itemized invoicing, W-9 forms, and direct billing with relocation partners (such as ALE Solutions or CRS). From 2.5 to 4.5 bathrooms, our configurations offer a seamless, personal transition handled with the care only a dedicated local host can provide.