Summary: Duke’s, a beloved seaside restaurant in Malibu, faced significant challenges after the Palisades fire and subsequent mudslides. The iconic establishment, known for its history and ambiance, suffered damage from the fire but was on the brink of reopening before mudslides caused further setbacks. The closure not only impacted the restaurant but also affected its employees, some of whom lost their homes in the fire.
In the heart of Malibu, where the Pacific Coast Highway winds along the picturesque coast, stands Duke’s restaurant – a cherished landmark that has welcomed locals and tourists alike for generations. However, recent events have put this iconic establishment to the test, leaving its future uncertain.
A Devastating Blow from Mother Nature
In January, a fierce fire ravaged the Palisades area, leaving a trail of destruction in its wake. Among the few structures that withstood the flames was Duke’s restaurant. The resilient managers wasted no time in beginning the daunting task of cleaning up the smoke damage, determined to reopen their doors to the community.
Just as hope was on the horizon, a heavy downpour unleashed chaos in the form of mudslides cascading down the scorched hillsides. The once peaceful Las Flores Canyon Road transformed into a turbulent river of mud, engulfing the Pacific Coast Highway and inundating Duke’s parking lot. The restaurant, already on the road to recovery, now faced a setback that would prolong its closure for months to come.
A Community in Crisis
The impact of the mudslides extended far beyond the physical damage caused to the restaurant. Manager Jimmy Chaves shared the heartbreaking news that six of Duke’s employees had lost their homes in the fire, compounding the economic strain on the already struggling workforce. The closure of the restaurant not only disrupted the livelihoods of its 130 employees but also dealt a blow to the local economy.
The closure of a portion of the Pacific Coast Highway in front of Duke’s added to the challenges faced by the community. Despite efforts to partially reopen one lane for emergency and cleanup crews, the road closure disrupted the flow of traffic and access to the beloved establishment.
As the community rallied together to support Duke’s and its employees, stories of resilience and hope emerged. Kathy Kohner Zuckerman, the inspiration behind the iconic film “Gidget,” continued her work at Duke’s as an “Ambassador of Aloha,” embodying the spirit of camaraderie and perseverance in the face of adversity.
As Duke’s navigates the long road to recovery, the outpouring of support from the community serves as a beacon of hope in challenging times. The restaurant’s legacy, rooted in the spirit of Hawaiian surfing legend Duke Kahanamoku, endures as a symbol of strength and resilience in the face of adversity. The road ahead may be long and arduous, but with the unwavering support of the community, Duke’s will rise from the ashes and reclaim its rightful place as a beacon of hospitality and tradition in Malibu.
