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Providence

RESTAURANT SUMMARY

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Where sustainable seafood artistry reaches its pinnacle, Providence Los Angeles stands as Chef Michael Cimarusti's three-Michelin-starred temple to the ocean's bounty. This intimate fine dining sanctuary on Melrose Avenue transforms wild-caught treasures into culinary poetry through twenty years of unwavering dedication to both excellence and environmental stewardship.

Since opening in 2005, Providence has evolved from Cimarusti's childhood memories of fishing with his grandparents in Rhode Island into America's most celebrated seafood destination. The James Beard Award-winning chef, alongside partner Donato Poto, has crafted a restaurant that earned its first Michelin star in 2008, ascended to two stars in 2009, and achieved the coveted third star in 2025—making it one of only two Los Angeles restaurants with this distinction. The Green Star recognition for sustainability further validates Cimarusti's commitment to responsible sourcing from American waters.

Providence's ever-evolving tasting menu reads like a love letter to the sea, featuring pristine wild-caught specimens that arrive daily from sustainable fisheries. Signature creations might include the legendary "uni egg"—sea urchin nestled in an actual eggshell—or delicate preparations of Japanese tai snapper and turbot showcasing contrasting textures. The "Ugly Bunch" presents an indulgent trio of abalone, geoduck, and sea urchin elevated by champagne beurre blanc, while Santa Barbara spot prawns arrive perfectly grilled with aromatic herb accompaniments. Each dish reflects Cimarusti's philosophy of purity over complexity, allowing natural flavors to shine through precise technique.

The recently renovated dining room abandons traditional white tablecloths for an oceanic-inspired atmosphere featuring tactile walls adorned with porcelain barnacle-like forms and artistic elements reminiscent of sea urchin tentacles. Sleek white leather banquettes and intimate candlelight create sophisticated comfort rather than formal stuffiness. The veteran service team—many with tenures spanning 14-20 years—delivers encyclopedic knowledge and warm hospitality that makes each guest feel like family. The Wine Spectator-awarded cellar offers thoughtful pairings from global producers, with sommelier-guided selections that complement the menu's delicate seafood preparations.

Reservations at Providence require advance planning through Tock, with the restaurant's 20-year reputation making tables highly coveted among Los Angeles fine dining enthusiasts. For those seeking the ultimate expression of sustainable seafood cuisine, Providence offers an unparalleled tasting menu experience that celebrates both culinary artistry and ocean conservation.

CHEF

Michael Cimarusti

ACCOLADES

(2024) LA Times 101 Best Restaurants #7

(2025) AAA 5 Diamond

(2025) Wine Spectator Best of Award of Excellence

(2025) Michelin 3 Stars

(2024) Michelin 2 Stars

(2025) EP Club Recommended Restaurant

(2025) La Liste Score: 86.5pts

(2025) Forbes 4-Star

(2025) Relais Chateaux Award

(2025) Opinionated About Dining Top Restaurants in North America Ranked #159

CONTACT

5955 Melrose Ave., Los Angeles, California 90038

+1 323-460-4170

FEATURED GUIDES

NEARBY RESTAURANTS

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