How Many Michelin Star Restaurants in Santa Monica

How Many Michelin Star Restaurants in Santa Monica: Key Takeaways

• Santa Monica currently has two Michelin-starred restaurants: Mélisse with two stars, and Citrin with one star.
• Mélisse offers contemporary French cuisine led by Chef Josiah Citrin and holds a strong two-star rating.
• Citrin features a modern Californian menu emphasizing seasonal ingredients and innovation under the same chef’s guidance.

Santa Monica boasts a small but prestigious Michelin-starred restaurant scene as of 2025.

Learn more about the restaurant Michelin stars statistics to understand the impact of such accolades on the hospitality industry.

These dining spots highlight the city's culinary excellence and evolving food culture.

Overview of Michelin Star Restaurants in Santa Monica

As of August 2025, Santa Monica is home to two outstanding Michelin-starred restaurants that shape its fine dining reputation. These establishments have been honored for their exceptional culinary quality and innovation.

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Mélisse is the crown jewel of Santa Monica’s Michelin offerings. This restaurant has consistently held two Michelin stars, an indicator of excellent cuisine worth a detour. It specializes in contemporary French cuisine and is helmed by the acclaimed Chef Josiah Citrin, who crafts menus that are elegant and refined.

Alongside Mélisse is Citrin, a one Michelin-starred restaurant also overseen by Chef Citrin. Citrin delivers a modern Californian dining experience focused on showcasing seasonal ingredients and inventive cooking techniques, reflecting the region's culinary diversity and creativity.

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Details About Mélisse: Santa Monica’s Two-Star Michelin Restaurant

Mélisse stands out as Santa Monica's premier fine dining destination. Earning two Michelin stars is a rare honor, symbolizing not only flawless technique but also remarkable artistry in the kitchen.

The restaurant is known for its refined French dishes that balance tradition with contemporary flair. Under Chef Josiah Citrin’s leadership, Mélisse provides an experience that is both luxurious and deeply connected to culinary craftsmanship. Diners can expect a carefully curated tasting menu that changes with the seasons and emphasizes top-quality ingredients.

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Mélisse’s commitment to excellence ensures it remains a must-visit spot for gastronomes seeking an exceptional dining experience in Southern California.

About Citrin: One-Star Michelin Restaurant in Santa Monica

Citrin complements its sibling restaurant by offering a unique take on modern Californian cuisine. The hallmark of Citrin's menu is its focus on seasonal produce, freshness, and creativity.

Also led by Chef Josiah Citrin, Citrin blends classic techniques with innovative flavor combinations to create dishes that excite the palate. The restaurant earned its Michelin star in recognition of its high-quality food, attentive service, and inviting atmosphere.

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Citrin provides a more approachable yet still refined alternative to Mélisse, making it a favored choice for locals and visitors looking to indulge in Michelin-recognized cuisine without the formality of a two-star restaurant.

Bib Gourmand Recognitions in Santa Monica

In addition to Michelin-starred restaurants, Santa Monica also features several eateries with the Bib Gourmand distinction. The Bib Gourmand recognizes restaurants that deliver quality food at a reasonable price point, catering to diners who seek value without sacrificing taste.

Noteworthy Bib Gourmand recipients in Santa Monica include Colapasta and Tumbi, each praised for their flavorful and satisfying menus. These designations help highlight dining options that are both affordable and excellent, expanding Santa Monica’s appeal beyond its fine dining scene.

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Annual Updates and Considerations for Michelin Ratings in Santa Monica

The Michelin Guide updates its ratings annually, so the status of restaurants like Mélisse and Citrin can change based on multiple factors. These include culinary innovation, consistency, quality of service, and the overall dining experience.

Restaurants work hard to maintain or improve their star ratings each year, adapting menus and service standards to meet Michelin’s evolving criteria. Thus, for anyone tracking Santa Monica’s Michelin scene, it’s important to stay informed on yearly releases for the most current information.

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Conclusion About Michelin Starred Restaurants in Santa Monica

Santa Monica offers a refined selection of Michelin-starred dining with Mélisse’s two-star excellence and Citrin’s innovative one-star cuisine. These establishments demonstrate the city’s vibrant culinary landscape and commitment to world-class dining experiences.

Whether seeking elegant contemporary French food or inspired Californian fare, diners in Santa Monica can enjoy some of the best Michelin-recognized restaurants in California.

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Additional Resources for Santa Monica Michelin Star Dining

• Michelin Guide California
• Santa Monica Travel & Tourism
• California Department of Public Health - Food Safety