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Crossroads Kitchen
Master Critic Reviews (12 Lists)
Crossroads Kitchen
8.7
Crossroads Kitchen is Tal Ronnen’s plant-based fine dining room where artichoke oysters, vegan crab cakes, and pastas like tagliatelle Bolognese make a convincing case for meatless date nights. The dimly lit dining room and shareable small plates help the whole experience read as elegant rather than didactic.
Must-Try Dishes:
Artichoke Oysters, Vegan Crab Cakes, Tagliatelle Bolognese
Scores:
Value: 6.8
Service: 8.4
Consistency: 8.8
Food Quality: 9
Atmosphere: 8.6
Cultural Relevance: 8.7
What makes it special: A pioneering vegan fine dining restaurant where the menu feels indulgent, not ascetic.
Who should go: Pairs wanting upscale, plant-based dining that still feels decadent.
When to visit: Weekend evenings or a midweek late seating for a quieter room.
What to order: Artichoke Oysters, Vegan Crab Cakes, Tagliatelle Bolognese.
Insider tip: Start with cocktails and small plates at the bar before moving to a table for pastas and larger plates.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Valet is typically available along Melrose for a fee, and metered street parking exists but fills quickly during peak dinner hours. Plan a few extra minutes to circle side streets on weekends.
Dress code: Smart casual with a polished edge. Most guests lean stylish—think elevated denim, button-downs, or chic date-night outfits.
Noise level: Moderate. The dining room has an energetic hum but still allows comfortable conversation without raising your voice.
Weekend wait: Expect a wait of 30–60 minutes without a reservation, especially during primetime seatings.
Weekday lunch: No lunch service; early weekday dinners typically have minimal waiting with a reservation.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Excellent—every dish is vegetarian by design, with a wide spread of indulgent options.
Vegan options: Fully vegan menu across small plates, pastas, and entrées; no special requests needed.
Gluten-free options: Strong accommodations with several gluten-free dishes and the ability to modify some pastas; notify your server for guidance.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes. The dim lighting, shareable plates, and upscale ambiance create a relaxed but elevated backdrop that works well for a getting-to-know-you dinner.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Sometimes. The bar area can seat walk-ins, but weekend evenings fill early. For primetime or special occasions, a reservation is strongly recommended.
Is it kid-friendly? Not particularly. The room skews adult, with dim ambiance and a menu tailored to mature palates. Older teens might enjoy it, but families with young children may find better fits nearby.
Best For
Better for: Refined, plant-based dining that feels indulgent—ideal for mixed-diet couples who want a vegan meal that reads as traditional fine dining.
Skip if: You want a casual, quick vegan meal or prefer louder, more bustling spots with broader comfort food menus.
Crossroads Kitchen
8.8
Crossroads Kitchen is Tal Ronnen’s plant-based fine dining room where Mediterranean-inspired dishes, artichoke oysters, and pastas make vegan food feel genuinely luxurious. Locals treat it as a go-to for date nights and serious dinners where the wine list and service match the polished room.
Must-Try Dishes:
Artichoke Oysters, Tagliatelle Bolognese, Spaghetti Carbonara
Scores:
Value: 7.1
Service: 8.7
Consistency: 9.2
Food Quality: 9.1
Atmosphere: 8.8
Cultural Relevance: 8.9
What makes it special: Refined, Mediterranean-leaning vegan cuisine in a true fine-dining setting.
Who should go: Plant-focused diners who still want white-tablecloth energy.
When to visit: Prime-time dinner slots when the room feels most electric.
What to order: Artichoke Oysters, Tagliatelle Bolognese, Spaghetti Carbonara.
Insider tip: Book ahead for weekend dinners; brunch is easier and more relaxed.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Valet is typically available along Melrose; street parking can be limited during peak dinner hours but opens up slightly on side streets.
Dress code: Smart casual leaning polished—date-night outfits, button-downs, dresses, and elevated basics all fit comfortably.
Noise level: Moderate—lively dinner energy but still easy to hold a conversation without raising your voice.
Weekend wait: Expect a wait of 30–45 minutes without a reservation; prime slots book out days in advance.
Weekday lunch: Usually no wait; walk-ins are seated quickly except during holiday weekends.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes—entirely vegetarian menu with many refined dishes.
Vegan options: Yes—menu is fully plant-based, with meticulous execution of classic fine-dining techniques.
Gluten-free options: Many dishes can be prepared gluten-free; staff is well-versed in accommodations and will guide substitutions.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes—the moody lighting, polished service, and shareable small plates make it ideal for a date where ambiance and thoughtful food matter.
Can I get a table without a reservation? It’s possible but unpredictable; early evenings and later seatings offer the best luck. On weekends, reservations are strongly recommended.
Is it kid-friendly? Not particularly—this is more of an adult-leaning dining room with a quiet, refined vibe. Older teens who enjoy plant-based cuisine will fare better than younger children.
Best For
Better for: Polished, Mediterranean-inspired vegan dishes executed with fine-dining technique—ideal for guests who want upscale plant-based food without sacrificing ambiance or service.
Skip if: You’re looking for a casual vegan spot, quick service, or a menu with hearty meat substitutes; the experience here is more refined and leisurely.
Crossroads Kitchen
8.8
Crossroads Kitchen is Tal Ronnen’s plant-based fine dining room on Melrose where Mediterranean-leaning small plates, pastas, and a popular brunch make vegan cooking feel genuinely luxurious. The dim, polished dining room spills onto a well-used patio, so outdoor tables feel like prime real estate for date nights and special occasions.
Must-Try Dishes:
Artichoke Oysters, Tagliatelle Bolognese, Spaghetti Carbonara
Scores:
Value: 7.2
Service: 8.6
Consistency: 8.9
Food Quality: 9.3
Atmosphere: 9.1
Cultural Relevance: 8.8
What makes it special: A polished, plant-based fine-dining room with one of the city’s most coveted vegan patios.
Who should go: Plant-focused diners who still want true fine dining energy.
When to visit: Prime-time dinner or weekend brunch when the patio buzzes.
What to order: Artichoke Oysters, Tagliatelle Bolognese, Spaghetti Carbonara.
Insider tip: Book patio seats well in advance—outdoor tables go first on busy nights.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Metered street parking along Melrose is the primary option; it fills quickly during peak dinner hours. Valet is occasionally offered during high-traffic evenings but not guaranteed.
Dress code: Smart casual leaning polished; diners often dress fashion-forward, but elevated jeans and a nice top are perfectly appropriate.
Noise level: Moderate indoors with a lively dining room; the patio is slightly quieter and better for conversation.
Weekend wait: 45–60 minutes without a reservation, especially for patio seating.
Weekday lunch: Generally no wait, though brunch-adjacent hours can draw light crowds.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes — the entire menu is plant-based, so vegetarian diners have full access to all dishes.
Vegan options: Yes — everything is vegan by design, including pastas, sauces, and desserts.
Gluten-free options: Yes — many items are available gluten-free, and the staff is accustomed to accommodating substitutions.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes — the patio offers a warm, intimate atmosphere that feels special without being overly formal. The plant-based menu is a great conversation starter for diners who appreciate thoughtful cooking.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Possibly for indoor seating on weeknights, but patio tables are rarely available without booking ahead. For weekends, reservations are strongly recommended.
Is it kid-friendly? It’s more adult-leaning, but well-behaved older kids and teens are fine. There’s no dedicated kids’ menu, and the atmosphere skews date-night rather than family dining.
Best For
Better for: Top-tier vegan fine dining with a desirable outdoor patio and elevated service; ideal for guests who want plant-based food that still feels luxurious.
Skip if: You prefer very casual vegan cafés or want large-format comfort dishes; this is more refined and portioned like a fine-dining experience.
Crossroads Kitchen
8.7
Crossroads Kitchen is Tal Ronnen’s plant-based Mediterranean fine-dining room where small plates, pastas, and cocktails draw a fashion-conscious crowd to the Melrose corridor. It feels as much like a buzzy, celebrity-adjacent night out as a vegan restaurant, which is why non-vegans pack the room as often as dedicated plant-based diners.
Must-Try Dishes:
Artichoke Oysters, Tagliatelle Bolognese (vegan), Spicy Meatball Pizza
Scores:
Value: 7
Service: 8.5
Consistency: 9
Food Quality: 9.1
Atmosphere: 8.6
Cultural Relevance: 8.7
What makes it special: A trailblazing vegan fine-dining spot that feels like a classic Melrose hot spot first and a plant-based restaurant second.
Who should go: Plant-curious diners who still want a full-on scene.
When to visit: Prime-time weekend dinner for peak buzz and energy.
What to order: Artichoke Oysters, Tagliatelle Bolognese, seasonal pasta special.
Insider tip: Book bar seats if you want a more flexible, walk-in–friendly way to experience the menu.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Valet is typically available on Melrose during dinner hours; street parking can be very limited and competitive after 6pm, especially on weekends.
Dress code: Smart casual with a fashionable lean; elevated jeans are fine, but most guests dress stylishly given the crowd and location.
Noise level: Moderate to lively—conversation is possible at smaller tables, but the room buzzes during peak dinner hours.
Weekend wait: Expect a 45–75 minute wait for walk-ins, especially from 7–9pm.
Weekday lunch: Usually no significant wait; walk-ins are common and seats turn over steadily.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes—100% of the menu is vegetarian, with a wide range of small plates and pastas.
Vegan options: Yes—the entire restaurant is fully vegan, with thoughtful alternatives for cheese, seafood, and meat dishes.
Gluten-free options: Many dishes can be made gluten-free on request, and several items are naturally gluten-free; servers are well-trained on modifications.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes—dim lighting, buzzy energy, and polished service create an ideal date-night backdrop, especially if you're aiming for trendy but not overly formal.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Possible but tough during prime weekend hours; bar seats are the best bet for walk-ins and often turn over faster.
Is it kid-friendly? Not particularly—while children are welcome, the crowd, volume, and menu skew more toward adults out for a night on Melrose.
Best For
Better for: Stylish, plant-based dining that still feels like a classic Melrose scene spot—perfect for trend-focused nights out where vegan food needs to impress non-vegan guests.
Skip if: You want a quiet, low-key dinner or need very casual, family-friendly seating; the energy here leans lively and social.
Crossroads Kitchen
8.8
Crossroads Kitchen is Tal Ronnen’s landmark vegan dining room on Melrose, serving sophisticated, Mediterranean-leaning small plates that eat like a chef’s tasting menu. Since opening in 2013, it’s become a go-to for plant-based chef’s table–style dinners, where multi-course menus, wine pairings, and private-room experiences attract both vegans and omnivores. The dark, polished room and attentive service make it a reliable choice for occasions that still feel relaxed rather than formal.
Must-Try Dishes:
Artichoke Oysters, Stuffed Zucchini Blossoms, Truffle Mushroom Bianca Pizza
Scores:
Value: 7
Service: 8.7
Consistency: 9.1
Food Quality: 9.2
Atmosphere: 8.8
Cultural Relevance: 9
What makes it special: A pioneering vegan fine-dining room where chef-driven tasting menus feel classic rather than preachy.
Who should go: Plant-focused diners wanting white-tablecloth energy without stuffiness.
When to visit: Prime-time dinner reservations when the room feels fully buzzing.
What to order: Artichoke Oysters, Stuffed Zucchini Blossoms, Truffle Mushroom Bianca Pizza.
Insider tip: Book one of the private dining spaces for custom multi-course chef experiences.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Valet is typically available in the evening for a fee, and metered street parking on Melrose opens up after 6pm but can still be competitive. Plan a few extra minutes for the block.
Dress code: Smart casual with a polished lean. Most guests dress stylishly; jeans are fine if paired with something elevated.
Noise level: Moderate. The room has lively energy but tables are close enough that conversation is still comfortable for dates and small groups.
Weekend wait: Expect a wait of 30–45 minutes without a reservation during peak hours.
Weekday lunch: Typically no wait; walk-ins are seated quickly.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Fully covered—nearly the entire menu is vegetarian by design.
Vegan options: Yes. The restaurant is entirely plant-based, with chef-driven vegan preparations across all sections.
Gluten-free options: A strong selection of gluten-free options is available, including several small plates and mains; staff is knowledgeable and helpful about modifications.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes. The dim lighting, refined service, and chef-driven dishes create a romantic atmosphere without feeling formal. Ideal for a date that wants both ambiance and memorable food.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Possible but not guaranteed. Walk-ins can sometimes snag bar seats or early tables, but prime dinner hours almost always require a reservation.
Is it kid-friendly? Better suited for adults. Older teens who enjoy chef-style dining will be fine, but the room’s lighting and pacing aren’t ideal for younger children.
Best For
Better for: High-end vegan cuisine with chef’s-table energy, polished service, and multi-course experiences that appeal to vegans and omnivores alike.
Skip if: You want fast-casual vegan food, large portions over presentation, or a louder, more casual atmosphere.
Crossroads Kitchen
9.1
Crossroads Kitchen is an upscale, all-vegan Mediterranean restaurant from chef Tal Ronnen, known for turning classic fine-dining techniques plant-based. Since 2013 it’s become a destination for special-occasion dinners where vegans and omnivores share elaborate small plates and pastas in a softly lit room.
Must-Try Dishes:
Artichoke Oysters, Cacio e Pepe, Lasagna dello Chef
Scores:
Value: 7.3
Service: 9.2
Consistency: 9
Food Quality: 9.5
Atmosphere: 9
Cultural Relevance: 9.3
What makes it special: Elevated plant-based Mediterranean plates and tasting menus from chef Tal Ronnen.
Who should go: Vegans and omnivores seeking upscale date-night or celebration dining.
When to visit: Prime-time dinner reservations, especially weekends and later evening seatings.
What to order: Artichoke Oysters, Cacio e Pepe, Lasagna dello Chef
Insider tip: Book bar seats for walk-in flexibility and chef’s counter energy.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Valet is typically available in the evenings; meter and residential street parking exist but fill quickly after 6pm in Beverly Grove.
Dress code: Upscale smart casual—most guests lean dressy. Dark jeans are fine, but many opt for elevated evening wear.
Noise level: Moderate—lively but controlled; conversation at a two-top is comfortable even during peak hours.
Weekend wait: 30–60 minutes without a reservation; bar seating offers the best chance for walk-ins.
Weekday lunch: No lunch service; dinner-focused restaurant.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Entirely plant-based, so all dishes are vegetarian-friendly.
Vegan options: Fully vegan menu across small plates, mains, and desserts.
Gluten-free options: Several gluten-free dishes and pasta substitutes are available; staff can guide modifications but there is no dedicated gluten-free kitchen space.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes—Crossroads excels for first dates thanks to its dim lighting, intimate tables, polished service, and shareable small plates that encourage a relaxed, conversational flow.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Walk-ins are possible but tough during prime dinner windows. The bar is your best bet for same-day seating, especially for smaller parties.
Is it kid-friendly? Not particularly—it's more suited for adults due to the refined atmosphere and later dining crowd. Older teens comfortable with upscale dining will fare better than younger children.
Best For
Better for: Special-occasion vegan dining, polished service, and sophisticated Mediterranean flavors that feel genuinely fine-dining rather than health-focused.
Skip if: You want quick, casual vegan food, large portions on a budget, or an environment suitable for small kids or big, rowdy groups.
Crossroads Kitchen
9.0
Crossroads Kitchen is chef Tal Ronnen’s upscale, plant-based Mediterranean restaurant where many dishes are naturally gluten free or can be prepared that way, making it a top choice for celiac-conscious diners who still want a full fine-dining experience. Since opening in 2013, it has become one of L.A.’s most influential vegan restaurants, with a deep wine list and composed plates that appeal to omnivores as much as vegans.
Must-Try Dishes:
Artichoke Oysters (gf by nature), Mafaldine Cacio e Pepe (gf pasta on request), Stuffed Zucchini Blossoms
Scores:
Value: 7
Service: 8.8
Consistency: 9.1
Food Quality: 9.2
Atmosphere: 9
Cultural Relevance: 8.7
What makes it special: Fine-dining vegan Mediterranean with many naturally gluten-free plates and careful accommodations.
Who should go: Gluten-free diners wanting special-occasion plant-based fine dining.
When to visit: Prime-time dinner for full menu and lively room.
What to order: Artichoke Oysters, gf mafaldine cacio e pepe, stuffed zucchini blossoms.
Insider tip: Flag gluten-free needs when booking; the kitchen can guide you to or adapt multiple dishes safely.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Valet is usually available in the evening (around $12–$15). Street parking on Melrose can be tight after 6pm, but meters on side streets open up if you’re willing to walk 2–3 minutes.
Dress code: Smart casual leaning dressy. Most guests wear elevated outfits—nice jeans, button-downs, dresses, or fashion-forward casual. Athletic wear stands out.
Noise level: Moderate. The room has an energetic hum during peak hours, but you can still carry a conversation without shouting.
Weekend wait: Expect a 30–60 minute wait without a reservation, especially after 7pm. Bar seats fill early.
Weekday lunch: Lunch service is lighter; typically no wait unless a large party arrives at the same time.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes — the entire menu is plant-based, with many composed vegetable dishes.
Vegan options: Yes — the restaurant is fully vegan, with no animal products used.
Gluten-free options: Strong accommodations. Many plates are naturally gluten free, and the kitchen can modify several others. Staff are well-trained on celiac safety.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes. The dim lighting, refined atmosphere, and polished service make it an excellent first-date choice, especially if you want to impress with a plant-based fine-dining spot that feels upscale rather than casual.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Sometimes. Early evening (before 6:30pm) or later (after 9pm) offers the best chance. Walk-in bar seats are possible but fill quickly on weekends. Reservations are strongly recommended for prime dinner hours.
Is it kid-friendly? Not particularly. The room leans adult, with dim lighting and a fine-dining pace. Older teens comfortable with upscale dining will be fine, but it’s not ideal for younger kids or families needing quick service.
Best For
Better for: Perfect for gluten-free or vegan diners seeking fine-dining execution, elegant plating, and a polished wine list—something far more refined than typical plant-based restaurants.
Skip if: If you want a casual, fast, or inexpensive meal; if your group prefers loud, playful energy; or if someone wants classic non-vegan comfort dishes.
Crossroads Kitchen
8.9
Crossroads Kitchen is a plant-based fine-dining landmark where chef Tal Ronnen serves Mediterranean-inspired small plates in a dark, polished room suited to anniversaries and milestone birthdays. Since 2013, it’s been a go-to in 90046 when diners want a fully vegan menu that still feels like a classic special-occasion restaurant.
Must-Try Dishes:
Artichoke Oysters, Truffle Mushroom Pizza, Stuffed Zucchini Blossoms
Scores:
Value: 7.2
Service: 8.7
Consistency: 9
Food Quality: 9.2
Atmosphere: 9
Cultural Relevance: 9
What makes it special: Upscale, fully plant-based dining that still feels classic and celebratory.
Who should go: Vegans and omnivores planning polished, higher-end celebrations.
When to visit: Prime-time weekend evenings for peak buzz and energy.
What to order: Artichoke Oysters, Truffle Mushroom Pizza, seasonal pasta special.
Insider tip: Book early and request a booth for the most intimate experience.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Valet is typically available during peak dinner hours; street parking on Melrose can be scarce after 6pm but meters on side streets open up with patience.
Dress code: Smart casual with a polished edge; dark denim is acceptable, but diners generally lean dressy due to the celebratory atmosphere.
Noise level: Moderate; the room has an energetic buzz but you can comfortably hold a date-night conversation without raising your voice.
Weekend wait: Expect a wait of 30–60 minutes without a reservation; walk-ins are sometimes seated at the bar if space allows.
Weekday lunch: Generally no wait, though the dining room can fill up quickly during peak midday hours.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: 100% vegetarian-friendly as all dishes are plant-based.
Vegan options: Fully vegan menu across all sections with thoughtful ingredient substitutions.
Gluten-free options: Multiple gluten-free options are labeled; staff can guide you through safer choices, though not all dishes can be modified.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes — the intimate lighting, upscale feel, and shareable small plates make it ideal for a first date that feels elevated but not stuffy.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Possibly, but not guaranteed. Walk-ins might find seats at the bar or a late-evening table; for prime dining hours, advance reservations are strongly recommended.
Is it kid-friendly? Not particularly; the dark, sophisticated room skews adult-focused and is better suited to teens and older rather than younger children.
Best For
Better for: Best for upscale vegan dining, special occasions, and groups wanting a refined Mediterranean-inspired plant-based experience that feels truly celebratory.
Skip if: Skip if you want a casual, fast, or budget-friendly vegan meal, or if someone in your group prefers a louder, more high-energy atmosphere.
Crossroads Kitchen
8.8
Crossroads Kitchen is a plant-based fine-dining landmark on Melrose where chef Tal Ronnen builds Mediterranean-inspired small plates around seasonal vegetables and California produce. Tasting-style dinners, polished service, and a strong wine and cocktail program make it a destination both for vegans and omnivores.
Must-Try Dishes:
Artichoke Oysters, Truffle Mushroom Pizza, Seasonal Pasta Special
Scores:
Value: 7.2
Service: 8.8
Consistency: 9
Food Quality: 9.2
Atmosphere: 8.7
Cultural Relevance: 9
What makes it special: A pioneering vegan, farm-to-table fine-dining room where the cooking feels as polished as any classic special-occasion restaurant.
Who should go: Plant-based diners and omnivores wanting upscale, chef-driven vegetable cooking.
When to visit: Prime Friday–Saturday seatings or Sunday brunch for the full scene.
What to order: Artichoke Oysters, Truffle Mushroom Pizza, seasonal pasta.
Insider tip: Book bar seats if you want a slightly more casual experience with access to the full menu and cocktails.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Valet is typically available along Melrose; street parking is limited and often competitive after 6pm, especially on weekends.
Dress code: Smart casual with a polished lean; elevated streetwear, dark denim, blazers, and chic dresses all fit the room’s vibe.
Noise level: Moderate—lively hum during peak dinner hours but still comfortable for conversation.
Weekend wait: Expect a wait of 30–45 minutes without a reservation; bar seats may open up faster.
Weekday lunch: No lunch service, but earlier weekday dinner seatings often have minimal waits.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes—entire menu is plant-based, with plenty of vegetable-forward dishes.
Vegan options: Yes—fully vegan restaurant with creative, chef-driven preparations.
Gluten-free options: Several gluten-free dishes are available; many items can be modified upon request.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes—moody lighting, polished plates, and attentive service create an elevated but comfortable setting that works well for early-stage dates.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Possibly—walk-ins are sometimes accommodated at the bar or early in the evening, but weekend prime times almost always require a reservation.
Is it kid-friendly? Not particularly—while children are welcome, the menu skews sophisticated and the atmosphere is better suited for adults and special occasions.
Best For
Better for: Refined, plant-based tasting-style dining with upscale service and a cocktail program that rivals traditional fine-dining spots.
Skip if: You want hearty, comfort-style vegan fare, prefer casual settings, or need very fast service—this is a sit-down, special-occasion experience.
Crossroads Kitchen
8.9
Since 2013, Crossroads Kitchen has been one of LA’s most visible plant-based fine-dining rooms, offering a formal multi-course tasting menu built around seasonal Mediterranean-leaning vegetable cookery. The Melrose flagship draws both vegans and omnivores for polished service, white-tablecloth ambiance, and a seven-course experience that feels closer to a classic special-occasion tasting than a casual vegan spot.
Must-Try Dishes:
Artichoke Oysters, Stuffed Zucchini Blossoms, Crossroads Experience 7-Course Tasting Menu
Scores:
Value: 7.3
Service: 8.7
Consistency: 9.1
Food Quality: 9.3
Atmosphere: 8.9
Cultural Relevance: 8.8
What makes it special: Plant-based fine dining with a dedicated, seasonal seven-course tasting menu.
Who should go: Vegans and omnivores wanting upscale tasting-menu dining.
When to visit: Prime weekend evenings or major special-occasion nights.
What to order: Artichoke Oysters, Stuffed Zucchini Blossoms, seasonal tasting menu.
Insider tip: Mention the tasting menu when booking; it often requires full-table participation.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Valet is typically available on Melrose (around $12–15). Street parking exists but is competitive after 6pm, especially on weekends; allow extra time.
Dress code: Smart casual leaning polished. Dark denim is fine, but most guests dress up given the special-occasion tasting format.
Noise level: Moderate. Conversations are easy at two-tops, though later seatings can get livelier near the bar.
Weekend wait: Reservations are strongly recommended; walk-ins may face 45–75 minutes or may not be accommodated for the tasting menu.
Weekday lunch: Not applicable—the restaurant is dinner-focused; early-evening weekday reservations are easier to secure.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Entirely suitable—every dish is plant-based, with options ranging from lighter vegetable preparations to richer mains.
Vegan options: Yes. The full tasting menu and à la carte items are fully vegan by design.
Gluten-free options: Many courses can be adapted gluten-free; inform the restaurant when booking so substitutions can be prepared in advance.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes. The lighting is flattering, the room feels upscale without being stuffy, and the tasting menu structure keeps the pacing smooth and conversational.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Possible but not ideal. The tasting menu typically requires a reservation and full-table participation. Walk-ins may find limited bar seating early in the evening but should not rely on it for the full tasting experience.
Is it kid-friendly? Not particularly. The atmosphere is geared toward adults, special occasions, and longer tasting-menu pacing. Older teens comfortable with a formal meal will do fine; younger kids may find it too slow or quiet.
Best For
Better for: Highly polished vegan fine dining, a rare full tasting-menu format in LA’s plant-based scene, and a level of service and ambiance that feels closer to classic special-occasion restaurants.
Skip if: You prefer heartier, non-vegan proteins; want a quick, casual meal; or dislike multi-course, structured dining with a set menu.
Crossroads Kitchen
8.9
Crossroads Kitchen is Tal Ronnen’s upscale vegan dining room on Melrose, where a dedicated private dining room and wine room host plant-based celebrations built around pastas, small plates, and cocktails. With thousands of reviews and a long-running reputation, it’s one of the most reliable options in 90046 when you need a polished, fully vegan private room.
Must-Try Dishes:
Artichoke Oysters, Spicy Rigatoni Vodka, Roasted Vegetable Lasagna
Scores:
Value: 7.2
Service: 8.8
Consistency: 9.1
Food Quality: 9.3
Atmosphere: 8.4
Cultural Relevance: 8.8
What makes it special: A celebrity-backed vegan institution with multiple private dining spaces and serious cocktails.
Who should go: Groups wanting upscale vegan dining with a private room.
When to visit: Prime weekend evenings for full dining room energy.
What to order: Artichoke Oysters, Spicy Rigatoni Vodka, Roasted Vegetable Lasagna.
Insider tip: Ask events staff about using the wine room if you need more flexibility than the main PDR.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Valet is typically available during peak hours; metered street parking on Melrose can be competitive after 6pm but possible with a short walk.
Dress code: Smart casual leaning polished; stylish tops, dark denim, or casual jackets fit the room’s upscale energy.
Noise level: Moderate; the main room has steady buzz, but the private dining room remains comfortable for group conversations.
Weekend wait: Expect a wait of 25–40 minutes without a reservation; the bar fills quickly.
Weekday lunch: Usually no wait, though private events can create brief delays.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Fully covered—everything on the menu is vegetarian-friendly.
Vegan options: Yes—Crossroads is entirely plant-based with extensive options.
Gluten-free options: Strong selection with pastas and small plates; servers are accustomed to GF requests and can guide substitutions.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes—dim lighting, polished service, and elevated vegan dishes create a sophisticated but approachable first-date setting.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Possibly on weeknights; weekends are reservation-heavy, and walk-ins may face long waits unless you’re comfortable dining at the bar.
Is it kid-friendly? Suitable for older kids or teens familiar with plant-based dining; the atmosphere skews adult and refined, especially during dinner.
Best For
Better for: One of the best choices in 90046 for upscale, fully vegan group dining with a private room that feels genuinely polished.
Skip if: You want a casual, budget-friendly meal or prefer a broader menu that includes seafood or meat options.
Crossroads Kitchen
8.9
Crossroads Kitchen is a polished, plant-based Mediterranean restaurant on Melrose where white tablecloths, a serious wine list, and a weekday lunch menu make it a natural fit for power meetings. It’s the kind of room where you can talk strategy over Artichoke Oysters and Spicy Rigatoni without anyone realizing the entire menu is vegan.
Must-Try Dishes:
Artichoke Oysters, Spicy Rigatoni Vodka, Roasted Vegetable Lasagna
Scores:
Value: 6.8
Service: 8.7
Consistency: 9.1
Food Quality: 9.2
Atmosphere: 8.9
Cultural Relevance: 8.8
What makes it special: A refined, plant-based dining room that feels built for executive lunches.
Who should go: Teams hosting clients who appreciate upscale, health-conscious dining.
When to visit: Weekday lunch service for focused, daylight meetings.
What to order: Artichoke Oysters, Spicy Rigatoni Vodka, Roasted Vegetable Lasagna.
Insider tip: Book a corner banquette for more privacy and easier laptop use during meetings.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Valet is typically available during peak lunch hours; metered street parking along Melrose can be competitive but manageable before 12pm.
Dress code: Smart casual. Many guests come in work attire—polished but not formal. Blazers or elevated business-casual outfits fit the room well.
Noise level: Moderate during lunch—conversation-friendly with occasional bar activity but rarely disruptive.
Weekend wait: N/A for this category, but evenings can see 20–40 minute waits without reservations.
Weekday lunch: Usually no wait if you arrive before 12:30pm; prime 12:30–1:30pm window can see short waits of 5–15 minutes.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Extensive—nearly the entire menu is vegetable-forward and ideal for vegetarian diners.
Vegan options: Yes—Crossroads is fully plant-based, making it one of the top vegan business-lunch options in the area.
Gluten-free options: Strong GF support with many dishes modifiable; staff is proactive about substitutions and ingredient checks.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes for a daytime, low-pressure first date—elegant but not stuffy. For romantic nighttime ambiance, other spots in the area offer moodier lighting.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Typically yes during lunch if you arrive early or later in the lunch window. Prime business-lunch hours benefit from reservations, especially for groups.
Is it kid-friendly? Acceptable but not ideal—white tablecloths and a professional crowd make it better suited for adults. Older kids and teens familiar with plant-based dining will do fine.
Best For
Better for: High-quality plant-based meals in a refined setting that works exceptionally well for professional conversations, client hosting, and health-forward business lunches.
Skip if: You want rapid, casual service; you're with picky eaters who resist vegan dishes; or you need a quieter private room for highly confidential meetings.