Malibu's Hidden Farm Stands
Thorne Family Farm and Malibu Fig Ranch. Plus, Galerie 658.
Sup readers? If you’re looking for a third space in Los Angeles, check out the responses in the Scout LA chat. I’m thinking of joining marie nguyen and making mine the movie theatre after seeing The Odyssey with friends this weekend and acknowledging my increasing addiction to popcorn and Buncha Crunch.
In today’s newsletter: two wholesome Malibu farms, an inconspicuous interior design gallery, and quick food takes.
MALIBU’S COMMUNITY FARM STANDS
Some of Malibu’s most hidden treasures aren’t beaches or hiking trails, but the community-run farm stands beloved by locals for their fresh, local produce. Next time you’re in the area, consider stopping by Thorne Family Farm and/or Malibu Fig Ranch for a taste (literally) of the wholesome version of Malibu.
Thorne Family Farm: This family-run farm is set back from PCH, surrounded by stunning Malibu estates and other small farms. Gorgeous rows of flowers greet you, with bouquets for sale. A rustic wooden structure houses buckets of fresh fruit, vegetables, local eggs, homemade jams, and more. Varsity Bakers sells breads and pastries. Depending on the week, you might also find live music, reflexology, or a corn maze. Kids play at the geese pen, picnic tables, and throughout the rows of vegetables. Open seasonally on Saturdays, 9am - 1pm. No dogs allowed.
Malibu Fig Ranch: Situated directly across from Point Dume Village, Malibu Fig Ranch is the farm of Kerry Clasby, also known as The Intuitive Forager. Kerry sources produce for some of the country’s top chefs, visiting dozens of California farms weekly to find the best (and often rarest) produce available. It’s hard to stop inhaling the farm’s natural floral and herbal scents everywhere you walk. The experience of selecting produce is a bit unique here: you actually enter a giant metal cooler where you’re greeted with a rainbow of fresh fruits and vegetables to choose from. We rang the service bell and a sun-kissed, barefoot farmer checked us out. You don’t see that every day! Open daily, 9am - 6pm.
GALERIE 658
It’s easy to miss this by-appointment-only design showroom, situated in a charming Beverly Grove home that’s hidden behind tall hedges and entry gates. The experience of arrival is similar to that of Spencer’s: intrigue about what’s behind the mysterious doors, excitement about discovering a space that feels like a secret, confidence that you’re in for a treat.
Galerie 658 showcases a rotation of vintage and antique furniture and decor, swapped out quarterly. The walls are lined with art for sale from the founder’s own collection, and the floors are carpeted with their very own rug line that’s both design forward and functional. Exploring the gallery is like taking in a friend’s home that you’re visiting for the first time: each room feels cozy and comfortable, and anticipation draws your eyes to the various collection pieces throughout.
The Galerie 658 team is behind the design project at Boul’ange on Fairfax (which I wrote about here). Anyone who has visited knows how beautiful that space is. I was informed that their team will also be designing the speakeasy and Japanese restaurant opening next door.
Some rapid-fire food thoughts from the weekend to round out this newsletter:
Cosetta: I’d argue this is one of the best options for eating out in Santa Monica if you’re looking for quality food and a fun, lively vibe. Lean into the comfort food on the menu: the mozzarella sticks and chicken wings were A+, and the pizza was solid. For the gluten-free among us, Cosetta has one of the most extensive and clearly marked menus I’ve seen.
Panini Kabob Grill: I’ve had it many times before but was reminded this weekend that I could legitimately drink the dressing on the romaine avocado salad. It’s that good.
Lily’s: Be warned that these days (aka prime Malibu summer season) a wait on the weekends is close to forty minutes, though my hot and fresh fish burrito was well worth it. Try ordering ahead.
The song stuck in my head this week:
I love the farm stands! And lily's!! And immediately googled Buncha Crunch
Cosetta is sooo slept on!!!