Duke’s welcomes locals and tourists back

MALIBU, Calif. (KEYT) Locals and tourists are flocking to Duke's to see the Malibu restaurant that barely survived the Palisades Fire and the mud that followed.

After 15 months of repairs, it reopened in March.

 It is currently open Thursdays through Sundays, but plans are in the works to be open full time soon.

Regulars know to make room for the famous Hula Pie dessert that is served on a plate that's for sale.

Recently, lunch and dinner and bar guests have spotting dolphins and whales out the window.

"People are really excited we are back, it has been a wonderful response, everyone has just been really looking forward to us being back," said Duke's Manager Allegra Fallucca-Ruiz, " and now being back open it is almost more than we know what to do with, but it is the best problem we could have, everyone is so excited."

The inspiration for the "Gidget" novel, Kathy Kohner Zuckerman is often there to greet guests.

Zuckerman, known as the original Gidget is Duke's Ambassador of Aloha.

The restaurant brochure tells her story and says the popular spot is named after Hawaii's greatest athlete Duke Kahanamoku.

The restaurant also has upgrades to see.

There is a a new Board Room, with a surfboard on the wall, for special events.

For more information visit https:dukesrestaurant.com