Citrus, located on the north side of hip Melrose Avenue, was voted the best restaurant in Los Angeles by the Zagat survey a few years back, and it is always in the top ten. The creation of acclaimed chef/pâtissier Michel Richard, Citrus is a chic, white room with open windows, an exhibition kitchen, wicker chairs and umbrella-topped tables - almost an indoor garden patio.

Citrus is a rarity: a Hollywood restaurant with great food (French-Californian), and even better desserts. It's still very popular with the celebrity crowd.

Citrus is open Monday through Saturday; for lunch from noon to 3 PM, and for dinner from 6:30 PM to 11 PM. Closed Sundays. The preferred seats are in the big room to the left of the entrance, near the reservation desk.

Cirus is an expensive restaurant. Expect to pay at least $85 for dinner for two, probably more. (If that's too high for you, you might consider the new Bisto Bar at Citrus, which is actually a seperate, less-expensive café, carved out of Citrus' old "Siberia " space. With prices a third lower, and essentially the same food, some people prefer the new room to the original Citrus next door.)

Jacket required. Valet parking.

Getting there: Citrus is located on Melrose Avenue, at Citrus Avenue. / From Hollywood & Vine, take Vine Street south (about a mile and a half) to Melrose Avenue, then turn right (west). Go west on Melrose (about 12 blocks) to Citrus Avenue (just past Highland Ave.), and the restaurant will be on your right (north) side.