Mélisse

Josiah Citrin's Santa Monica stalwart—a long-time high watermark in L.A. tasting menus—underwent a rebrand, and gone is the more formal white-tablecloth experience. That doesn't mean this is no longer one of the city's top tasting menus; we’re pleased to report that it feels just as special as the original Mélisse, but with entirely new flavor. There’s also a new setting, a more private vibe and that entirely new menu (don’t worry, you can still find some of the chef’s trademarks next door at the adjoining spot, Citrin), giving us a familiar experience with a little freshening up. Now cordoned off in a near-hidden alcove within the greater Citrin space, Mélisse seats only 14 and delivers exquisite and detail-oriented dishes: caviar in chawanamushi with Hokkaido uni; spiny lobster whose sauce has been pressed via antique contraption; delicate wagyu strip loin with anchovy and shallots; a rich chestnut soup with even richer truffle foam. It’s good to have you back, Mélisse, and you were more than worth the wait.