Mr Chow - Malibu: It's Obvious Why There's Such A Strong Following
Seeing and dining with the stars is a common theme when it comes to diners visiting Mr. Chow, but it really isn't even solely about that once you have experienced Mr. Chow first hand. Why? It's the impeccable service you are granted from the second you walk in, to the moment they pack your to-go boxes in what looks like a shopping bag from Tiffany. It's all about the experience that draws loyal and new customers into a Mr. Chow.
Owner Michael Chow first opened Mr. Chow in London on Valentine's Day, 1968. Six years later Mr. Chow opened its signature paparazzi infested location in Beverly Hills and then expanded to locations in New York, Miami, Malibu, and now Las Vegas.
We got to experience one of the seven Mr. Chow's locations. We traveled to the seaside Malibu destination within the swanky Malibu Country Mart, where we learned why the restaurateur has such a strong following. The white on white décor and mirror lined walls tricks your mind into thinking it's a lot bigger than the actual 1700 square foot space; however, once you are comfortably seated. all that starts to make sense. Michael Chow nails the trendy and intimate atmosphere where it is just small enough for the service to work like clockwork, it's pretty impressive.
The food menu is consistent across the country as a combination of old authentic Beijing and original recipes. We were first served the signature Chow Noodles, a classic handmade Beijing noodle that Mr. Chow introduced to the west in 1968. Included were glazed prawns with toasted walnuts. The entrée portion contained spicy sweet Beijing Chicken and Gamblers Duck served with steamed pancakes and plum sauce. A staple Mr. Chow is the semi prix fixe that Mr. Chow fans are famed to order is the Beijing Duck, one of the best prepared in the world, served family style and for a minimum of 2 guests.
The food is good, however the service is great. To clearly demonstrate just how impeccable the service implemented at Mr. Chow is, just imagine reaching for your fried rice that sits across the table, and a waiter rushing over to move it closer to you. Say your napkin fails to stay put on your lap- not a problem- you are introduced with a fresh new one placed proudly upon your now bare lap. This actually isn't the imagination speaking, this is how they treat their patrons.