Melisse

Tucked away on Wilshire Boulevard in Santa Monica, Melisse has been quietly redefining what fine dining can feel like for over two decades. With just fourteen seats and a staff-to-diner ratio that would make most restaurants blush, this intimate tasting menu destination wraps you in luxury without the stuffiness that often accompanies such establishments. The soundtrack drifts from Bowie to Sinatra to Fleetwood Mac, and conversations flow freely without the hushed reverence demanded by lesser establishments.

The ten-course journey through chef-driven American cuisine is a masterclass in balance and restraint. Each dish arrives with intention, from the opening collection of bites that includes what can only be described as the finest potato chip you’ll ever encounter, to the coffee-crusted Sonoma lamb that somehow arrives at the perfect moment when you’re ready for something heartier. The Hokkaido scallop carpaccio paired with a truffle gribiche demonstrates the kitchen’s philosophy: use exceptional ingredients sparingly, let them shine, and never overwhelm the palate.

This is an experience designed for celebration. At $400 per person before drinks, Melisse isn’t an everyday indulgence, but for anniversaries, milestone birthdays, or simply those moments when you want to feel truly taken care of, few places deliver with such consistency. The servers move with choreographed precision, the wine list rivals a small library, and you’ll leave with a box of cookies and the printed menu as souvenirs.

The only caveat worth noting is the strict no-cancellation policy, which can sting if unexpected circumstances arise. But for those who can commit to the evening and want to experience fine dining that feels genuinely warm and welcoming, Melisse remains one of LA’s most treasured culinary destinations.