Mélisse is a chic, two-Michelin-starred gem in Santa Monica, serving exquisite prix fixe menus that blend French technique with California's finest ingredients.
"Fine-dining chef Josiah Citrin and chef de cuisine Ken Takayama know how to dazzle diners at this two-Michelin-starred restaurant. Snag a seat in the 14-seat dining room for an eight-course, two-and-a-half-hour culinary experience that can include a seaweed tart with smoked salmon and roe, A5 wagyu beef with morels and pickled ramps, and more. The meal costs $400 per person and reservations are available on OpenTable." - Cathy Chaplin, Eater Staff
"A Two MICHELIN Star restaurant by Josiah Citrin in Santa Monica, offering a meticulously orchestrated dining experience with an emphasis on exceptional ingredients and techniques." - Michael He
"Josiah Citrin, chef at Mélisse in Santa Monica, makes his mom’s yam soufflé with brown butter pecan crust for Thanksgiving. It’s the perfect complement for fall dishes such as turkey, venison, or wild game; the soft, sweet, custardy texture of the yam in combination with the nutty crunch of the pecans makes one of them all." - Jillian Dara
"Mélisse is a modern French restaurant in Santa Monica with two Michelin stars, known for its award-winning dining experience." - Chadner Navarro Chadner Navarro Chadner Navarro is a writer and editor who specializes in travel, food, design, and culture. He was born in Manila, grew up in New Jersey, and travels often. Travel + Leisure Editorial Guidelines
"Verdict: In most ways, Melisse is pretty much what you’d expect from a tasting menu-only spot that’s been open in Santa Monica for over 20 years. There are foams, intricate presentations, and servers who have spent a lot of time learning dish placement choreography. And yet, it doesn’t feel stale. If you're down to spend, it's a good option." - nikko duren, brant cox