The Best Restaurant in Santa Monica, Pacific Palisades, and Brentwood, Los Angeles

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In these neighborhoods, choose from a diverse collection of eateries—from sandwich shops to upscale seafood houses—that cater to the healthy and active lifestyle of locals. But beware of overpriced eateries betting that an ocean view will help you forget about substandard value and quality. Fortunately, they're easy to avoid by sticking to our list here. As for budget eats, there are plenty of cafés, burger shacks, and casual chains that won't raise an eyebrow when you walk in with your sandy flip-flops.

Mélisse

$$$$ | Santa Monica Fodor's Choice

It's a gem tucked within a treasure box: hidden within Citrin, a one-Michelin-star restaurant, is Mélisse, a two-Michelin-star restaurant. Chef-owner Josiah Citrin entrusts chef/partner Ken Takayama to blend his modern French cooking with seasonal California produce at this Santa Monica institution. On any given night, the rotating,18-course tasting menu might feature Santa Barbara uni cromesquis, Kagoshima A5 Wagyu beef or a hojicha macaron. The cheese cart is packed with domestic and European selections, and the dining room is contemporary yet elegant, with well-spaced tables and fine china. The tasting menu can be made vegetarian.

French Fodor's Choice $$$$ Prix-Fixe Dinner
1104 Wilshire Blvd., Los Angeles, CA, 90401, USA
310-395–0881
www.citrinandmelisse.com
Known For
  • The epitome of freshness and inventiveness
  • Only 14 seats
  • Contemporary and elegant decor
Restaurant Details
Closed Sun.–Tues. No lunch
Reservations essential

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