I genuinely wanted to like Citron, but this was one of the most uncomfortable and disappointing dining experiences I've had in years. Let's start with the ambiance, which felt completely uncurated. Electric candles in fake porcelain shades sat awkwardly alongside mid-century modern tables, while the glassware looked like it was pulled straight from Target. Nothing worked together. Instead of feeling intentional or elegant, the room felt confused and cheap. Then came the service. I've never experienced such intrusive and uncomfortable behavior from a waiter. He lingered constantly, eavesdropping on conversations, interjecting with judgmental commentary, and pushing recommendations that felt transparently like cash grabs. The insistence that everyone order the prix fixe came off as aggressive rather than helpful. It set the tone for the night and not in a good way. The first dish arrived on a plate printed with hands, which was immediately off-putting and bizarre. Presentation matters, and this crossed the line from "quirky" into actively unappetizing. All of this could have been forgiven if the food delivered. I can overlook almost anything for a great bite. Unfortunately, the food was the most disappointing part of the entire experience. It was lackluster, outdated, and at times barely edible. The lobster bolognese with truffle foam was especially egregious: poorly cooked, almost devoid of lobster, and stuck in a culinary time warp that should have been retired years ago. One salad was so heavily doused in truffle oil that it became inedible, overpowering, artificial, and unpleasant. The lemon-crusted sole was soggy, forgettable, and completely lacking finesse. Nothing felt inspired. Nothing felt worth the price. The entire experience suggested a restaurant resting on an old reputation rather than offering food or service that justifies it. I won't be returning. read more

I recently wined and dined at Citrin, and let me tell you, this place knows how to serve up a punbelievably fantastic experience. From grape to glass, it's a vine-tastic journey that'll leave you grapeful for each sip and bite. First off, the service - it's not just good; it's grape. The staff here is so attentive; they practically read my mind. It's like they have a grapevine telepathy network going on, ensuring your every need is met with a grapeful smile. Now, onto the food - each dish is a masterpiece, a symphony of flavors that'll have your taste buds doing a culinary cha-cha. The chef is a culinary artist, turning every plate into a canvas of deliciousness. It's like a foodie fiesta that leaves you wanting to grape a second helping. The drinks - oh boy, they're not just drinks; they're grape elixirs crafted by liquid wizards. Sipping on them is like taking a journey through flavor realms you never knew existed. The cocktail menu is so grape that you'll want to try them all - it's practically a grape adventure in a glass. The atmosphere is grape too - the kind of ambiance that sets the perfect mood for a date. It's cozy, it's intimate, and it's got that magic touch that turns dinner into a grape escape for two. If you're looking for a spot that screams "romantic grape escape," Citrin is the place to be. In conclusion, Citrin is the grape-est spot in town. Great service, great food, great drinks, great atmosphere - it's a grape trifecta. If you're on the hunt for the perfect date spot that hits all the right notes, Citrin is the grape escape you've been dreaming of. Cheers to grape times! read more

Dining at Citrin is an exceptional experience that deserves all five stars. From the moment I walked in, I was greeted with a warm welcome. The ambiance is sophisticated yet cozy, creating a perfect setting for a memorable evening. I started off with the "Just What I Needed" cocktail. I love anything with passionfruit, and this drink did not disappoint! It wasn't too sweet and had the perfect amount of tartness and citrus. I began my meal with the truffle egg. The server shaved a generous portion of fresh truffle on top, which I was not mad about! It was a luxurious and flavorful start to the evening. Next, I moved onto the lobster bolognese, a solid seafood pasta dish. The pasta was perfectly cooked and well-seasoned, and the lobster was not fishy at all. For the main course, I had the duo of beef. Each piece was perfectly tender and paired so well with the accompanying sauce. Service was impeccable, as expected. The staff at Citrin goes above and beyond to ensure a wonderful dining experience. They are knowledgeable, attentive, and genuinely passionate about the food they serve. The ambiance is great for a romantic night out or even with a group of friends. I appreciate that this restaurant has opened its audience to more levels of dining, and it makes me want to come back more frequently. Overall, Citrin exceeded my expectations in every way. The combination of exquisite food, exceptional service, and a charming atmosphere makes it a standout dining destination. I'll be back shortly to try more dishes. Highly recommend! read more

Upon hearing rave reviews about Citrin and its recent Michelin star achievement, I was keen to experience it for myself. My visit during Dine LA's promotional period proved to be impeccable timing. Citrin exudes an upscale yet approachable bistro charm. The ambiance is lively and inviting, with the bustling bar area complementing the restaurant's sophisticated yet relaxed vibe. I find Citrin to be more relaxed than Melisse, but Melisse has an old-fashioned gentleman's charm, exuding talent and long-standing creativity. Our meal commenced with complimentary oysters, setting a delightful culinary tone. The pumpkin soup, characterized by its velvety texture and subtle hints of black truffle maple, was notably exceptional. The mackerel salad, intriguingly paired with lettuce, offered a refreshing palate experience. The caramelized black cod, elegantly presented over a tomato soup base, was a testament to the kitchen's flair and expertise. The creamy mushroom risotto, with its contemporary presentation, was a dish to remember. High-quality beef and lamb sourced from Sonoma were cooked to perfection, further justifying Citrin's Michelin distinction. The dessert, a delectable blend of chocolate cake, caramel, pecans, and cream, was the perfect conclusion to a wonderful meal. In conclusion, Citrin masterfully marries modern culinary techniques with traditional excellence. It is undoubtedly a must-visit dining destination in Santa Monica. read more

What could improve? Change of owner. My husband Nathan was attacked twice at Citrin where he had enjoyed his Saturday happy hour more than 5 years. He rarely missed his happy time sipping his favorite drinks and occasional meetings with nice strangers. One night 4 thugs claimed my husband took their reserved seats at bar and one of them who was a little Asian woman pushed my husband off the chair. My husband backed off then Fabian, the manager lead them to the table nearby. As my husband sat at his spot another tall thug came back and yelled "Hit me, hit me" it was a set up. At the table 3 were holding phones to video tape a next "incident". My husband did not bring this crazy incident to Josiah. Instead he let it go. A few weeks later the Asian woman wrote to Josiah complains that my husband was too aggressive. The following Saturday Josiah stormed out of the kitchen and yelled at my husband "Get out of my place'" My husband explained what had happed on that night but he had no ears to hear my husband out. Who are the aggressors? Who are the cowards that chose not to defend my husband even witnessing the whole incident. SAME ON YOU Josiah!! SHAME ON YOIF STAFF!! SHAME ON CITRIN!!! read more

I recently celebrated my birthday at Citrin with my family, excited to experience this newly Michelin-starred restaurant. While the food was undeniably exquisite--each dish was a masterpiece, both in taste and presentation--the service, unfortunately, did not live up to the same standard. From the start, the service was slow; it took nearly 20 minutes for our waitress to take our drink orders, which felt like an unusually long wait for a restaurant of this caliber. I also had an issue with a dish I specifically asked about to confirm it was vegetarian, only for it to arrive as a fish dish. The timing of the main courses was another disappointment; they were brought out at different intervals, which made for an awkward dining experience as we typically wait for everyone to be served before starting. Given Citrin's reputation, I was surprised by the lack of attention to detail in the service. While the food was certainly deserving of praise, the service aspect fell well short of what one would expect from a Michelin-starred restaurant. I hope they can improve in this area, as they clearly have the potential to offer an exceptional dining experience. read more

Citrin offers a fantastic ambiance and impeccable service, making for a refined yet welcoming dining experience. The restaurant's minimal yet adventurous approach extends from its atmosphere to its menu, creating a setting that feels both sophisticated and intriguing. The food presentation is stunning, with each dish crafted with precision and artistry. Standout plates included the Egg Caviar, Citrus-Cured Hamachi, and especially the Sweet Pea Risotto, which was an absolute highlight. The Filet of Beef was also exceptional, perfectly cooked and full of flavor. Drinks were well-crafted and complemented the meal beautifully. However, "Poisson d' Amour" and the "Mille Crêpes au Chocolat" and Vanilla-Strawberry "Affogato" were a bit plain, and left us wanting more. However, despite the quality and creativity of the dishes, the portion sizes and the overall amount of food left something to be desired, especially considering the price. While the experience itself is wonderful, the value doesn't quite match the cost. If you're looking for a beautifully plated, high-end dining experience with a sleek, modern touch, Citrin is worth visiting. read more

Citrin truly redefines the fine dining experience in Los Angeles. From the moment we arrived to celebrate my birthday, we were treated with Michelin-star-level service that was attentive without being overbearing. The staff exuded warmth, professionalism, and a deep knowledge of every dish on the menu, making the evening feel both intimate and special. They even let us tour the entire kitchen which was a really special treat and something I've always wanted to do! The food? Absolutely phenomenal. Every course was a work of art, perfectly balanced in flavor and presentation. Each dish showcased the chef's mastery and dedication to seasonal, high-quality ingredients. The tasting menu was an adventure for the palate, with every bite offering something unexpected yet delightful. I was truly left speechless after every bite! The ambiance added to the magic of the night--elegant yet relaxed, perfect for a memorable celebration. Citrin by Mélisse delivers an unparalleled dining experience that is worth every penny. It's now set the bar for all other fine dining spots in LA. I can't recommend it highly enough! read more

We celebrated our anniversary at Citrin last night, and it was nothing short of extraordinary. From the moment we arrived, the service was impeccable--warm, attentive, and genuinely over-the-top in the best way possible. We started with the egg caviar, which set the tone for the evening: elegant, indulgent, and beautifully balanced. The lobster Bolognese was rich and refined, a standout dish that felt both comforting and luxurious. The steak was cooked to perfection, and the red Santa Barbara prawns were sweet, succulent, and bursting with flavor. Even the bread service was a highlight--each option was phenomenal, but the pesto bread stole the show for me. And to finish, the chocolate soufflé was a decadent dream, the perfect ending to a flawless meal. Citrin doesn't just serve phenomenal food--it delivers an experience. Every detail, from plating to pacing, felt curated and intentional. We left feeling celebrated, satisfied, and already planning our next visit. read more

I really want to put 4.5 stars! Citrin offers more than just dinner - it's a blend of fine dining and art. Located at the former Melisse site, this restaurant celebrates California flavors with a touch of luxury. The lobster Bolognese, with brown butter truffle froth, is a showstopper - delicate yet richly indulgent. Our meal began with beautifully plated starters that looked like art on a plate. Citrin's four-course menu seamlessly transitions between courses, with every bite showcasing the team's dedication to quality and detail. For a more laid-back experience, try Citrin's happy hour, featuring creative cocktails and discounted wine, paired with their signature burger. The space is inviting yet modern, with warm lighting that sets the perfect ambiance for an elegant evening. The attentive service makes you feel right at home. Now we can't wait to return to explore the two-Michelin-starred Melisse tasting menu. read more

Citrin made our Valentine's weekend absolutely unforgettable! From the moment we walked in, the ambiance was warm, intimate, and effortlessly elegant ideal for a romantic night out. The service was impeccable attentive, knowledgeable, and never rushed, making the entire evening feel extra special. We indulged in their Valentine's pre-fixe tasting menu, and every course was pure perfection. Each dish was beautifully plated and expertly crafted, showing incredible attention to detail. To complement our meal, we both enjoyed cocktails, and they were just as impressive as the food. Thoughtfully mixed, balanced, and beautifully presented, they added a fun and elegant touch to the evening. Citrin is sophisticated dining at its best, and they truly went above and beyond to create a magical Valentine's experience. Whether for a romantic night out or any special occasion, this place is an absolute must. Highly recommend! read more

Citrin was an experience like no other. From the moment we walked in, we were greeted by a lively yet sophisticated ambience. The staff was very attentive and succeeded in fostering a welcoming, comforting, and delicious experience for us. My partner and I ordered the tasting menu, and I am so glad we did. We were delighted to try some of the most tastiest dishes we've ever had, all delivered with impeccable service and timing. My favorites were the tomato soup (amazing!), lobster bolognese, and "Banoffee." The restaurant even provided us with an extra dessert at the end to celebrate our anniversary! Citrin provided us with a dining experience that we will never forget. read more

Came to Citrin for a girls night and they did not disappoint. The entire experience was like no other. We were seated immediately upon arrival. The server was extremely knowledgeable. The entire wait staff was very attentive! Wine pairings were on point, but the food was by far the highlight of the night. Each dish was executed perfectly, I will definitely be back for the lobster bolognese again! The manager even stopped to check on us a few times and made us feel right at home! Chef Josiah and his team are well deserving of earning their first star at Citrin!!! read more

Finally getting around to this long-overdue review for Citrin - a solid four stars! Our date night experience was fantastic, with the food stealing the show. The diverse menu offered delightful options that pleased our palates. Service was good, adding to the positive vibe of our visit. The fact that we've returned multiple times speaks volumes. Citrin has become a reliable choice for us, and each visit reinforces our initial positive impression. If you're looking for a spot with enjoyable food and a repeat-worthy experience, Citrin won't disappoint. read more

The bread was cold and tasteless. That's the first red flag. How could this place possibly be the offspring of the 2 Michelin star Melisse??? Money is no object, but if I'm going to pay a lot, you better wow me. Everything was either too salty, overcooked or undercooked. But the crappy, cold bread is what really sticks in my crawl. I'll never forget that. It's like a handshake where someone has a floppy wrist. That's your first impression?? Your money is better spent elsewhere. Like Republique. read more

I had dinner at Citrin last week. I was excited to try this new place as we don't have tons of high end gourmet places to choose from on the westside. Maybe I should have waited a few more weeks to give them time to adjust. I'm saying this as my food was rather disappointing and the service friendly but not very professional (the sommelier was great). I may be back, or not. read more

Tried the egg caviar, lobster bolognese, crab risotto, and pineapple soufflé tonight -- and every bite was a dreamy experience. Each dish was beautifully crafted, rich in flavor, and perfectly balanced. The service was equally impressive: attentive, warm, and professional throughout the evening. A truly memorable dining experience from start to finish. read more

I recently stumbled upon Citrin and I have to say I was very impressed. It was fairly busy so I recommend making a reservation, but I was able to join them at the bar for their "Glass Off". The cocktails and food were amazing, along with the service. It was definitely the most upscale bar experience I've ever had! read more

I really enjoyed the meal here. The lobster was very tasty and cut like butter, yum! Pasta dishes were very good, though wasn't a fan of the risotto, but that could just be me, I think it was a little over priced for what it is, but that's LA right lol. Overall I would definitely visit again! read more