Malibu's New Sandwich Spot is in Someone's House

The eatery could test the limits of local zoning laws.

August 6, 2026

A takeout sandwich shop set to open this week in west Malibu could test the limits of Malibu's residential zoning rules.

[KBUU is reporting](https://malibu.fm/) the venture, called the Sandwich Shop Malibu, will operate lunch hours five days a week through a delivery window in a fence along Morning View Drive, near Malibu High School. The menu leans local, with torpedo-style sandwiches named after area surf breaks, plus vegetarian and vegan options.

The operator, Sara Jerabek, has obtained an L.A. County Micro-Enterprise Home Kitchen Operation permit, a [relatively new license](https://www.cnbc.com/2026/02/15/the-hottest-new-la-coffee-shop-granada-in-is-in-this-couples-backyard.html) under California law that allows residents to sell food prepared in home kitchens. She reportedly maintains the permit covers the operation.

But the legal picture appears murkier. According to KBUU, the state law behind home kitchen permits requires the local city to specifically authorize restaurants in residential zones, and Malibu has approved no commercial operations in its residentially zoned areas. Neither has the Coastal Commission. The shop holds county health permits, but no city permits.

It's unclear whether the city plans any code enforcement action ahead of the planned opening.