Josiah Citrin
Chef & Owner

Josiah Citrin is a culinary expert and veteran of Los Angeles’s gourmet dining scene, with more than 30 years of experience. He is chef and owner of Santa Monica, California’s Mélisse Restaurant.  In December of 2019, Chef Citrin reopened the reimagined Mélisse restaurant as two distinct concepts- Citrin, an ala carte dining experience that won one Michelin Star (2022,2023), and Mélisse, a 14-seat tasting menu, which has won two Michelin Stars (2021-2023).  Citrin is also the chef and owner of nearby restaurant, Charcoal Venice, as well as also oversees the food and beverage program at the LINE in Koreatown, as well as the restaurant Openaire situated at the hotel.  His fast casual concept, Augie’s on Main (that’s us!) opened on Main Street in Santa Monica in August 2022.  Citrin has also partnered with chef and friend Hans Röckenwagner at the iconic Sinatra-frequented Dear John’s in Culver City.  In fall of 2022, the team opened up new permanent sister restaurant, Dear Jane’s, in Marina Del Rey.  His culinary philosophy, “In Pursuit of Excellence” sets the standard for all his concepts, whether fine-dining or casual.