TRADITION
Malibu Grill is more than just a restaurant - it's a Bloomington tradition.
Since 1994, we've welcomed students, locals, and visitors alike through our doors to experience not only unforgettable meals, but also the warm, vibrant atmosphere that made us a cornerstone of downtown life. Whether it's friends gathering after class, families celebrating milestones, or fans cheering on our beloved Hoosiers, Malibu Grill is where memories are made.
OUR STORY
Our Story starts in December of 1985, when the Coombes family opened J. Arthur's Grill in the heart of Bloomington. That same year, a young bus boy named John Bailey, known as "JB", began his journey in the restaurant world. Over the years, JB worked his way up from cleaning off tables to managing the bar and eventually into a GM role, learning the whole business from the ground up.
In 1994, J. Arthur's was reimagined into Malibu Grill, introducing a fresh, California-inspired energy to the local dining scene. JB was there from day one, serving as General Manager and later as Managing Partner, helping to guide Malibu into its role as one of Bloomington's most beloved destinations.
After a brief time away, JB returned in 2025 to purchase the restaurant from the Coombes family - coming full circle as owner-operator and continuing the legacy of the place that helped shape his story.
More Than Just a Meal
From the beginning, we've taken pride in doing things the right way:
- Hand-cut steaks
- Fresh Seafood
- Creative, made-from-scratch pastas
-Craft cocktails
- Generous pours of carefully selected wines from respected Vineyards
Malibu is more than the food and drink - it's about the people.
Our team includes student's working their first job, long-time staff who know our regulars by name, and a community of guests who've been coming through our doors for decades. The connections forged here are what make us truly unique.
BRINGING PEOPLE TOGETHER
We've always strived to be the default community meeting place - where people feel at home, regardless of attire or occasion. Our menu is what we like to call "veto-proof" as it caters to all tastes and dietary needs
For those who need a place to unwind, our legendary "Bu" Bar is always open - serving hand crafted cocktails, shareable bites, and the kind of welcoming atmosphere that makes everyone feel at home.
Visit Us
We invite you to come and experience the unique charm of our restaurant. Whether you are a regular guest or visiting for the first time, we look forward to welcoming you and making your time with us delightful and memorable.
OUR TEAM
