Crossroads

The story

Crossroads Los Angeles: Plant-Based Mediterranean Dining on Melrose

The chef and the kitchen

Crossroads opened in March 2013 at the corner of Melrose and Sweetzer in Los Angeles, founded by Chef Tal Ronnen, author of the New York Times bestseller The Conscious Cook. Ronnen built a reputation preparing meals for Oprah Winfrey's 21-day cleanse and catering high-profile events before opening this vegetarian destination. Corporate Executive Chef Paul Zlatos brings extensive experience from the Wynn and stints as a personal chef for celebrities including Drake and Winfrey to the kitchen. They maintain a focus on satisfying flavors and precise execution.

A refined dining room

The space features upscale décor and lighting, creating an atmosphere that stands apart from casual plant-based spots. Crossroads was the first restaurant of its kind in the city to provide a full bar paired with an inspired cocktail program. Visitors encounter mouthwatering Mediterranean meals without obvious vegan cues, leading many to overlook that the kitchen prepares vegetarian cuisine until they review the ingredients. The setting welcomes vegans, flexitarians, and omnivores to dine together comfortably.

Signature dishes

The menu showcases house-made pastas like Mafaldine Cacio e Pepe and Spicy Rigatoni Vodka alongside robust entrées such as Eggplant Short Rib with whipped potatoes and mushroom bordelaise. Diners often select the Grilled Lion's Mane Steak served with truffle potatoes, or the Squash Blossom Pizza garnished with almond ricotta and basil pesto. Starters include Whipped Feta dressed with Medjool dates and Marcona almonds, while the Cheese and Pate board presents selections of camembert, blue cheese, and boursin.

Sustainability and sweets

The establishment received four radishes from the We're Smart Green Guide in 2026, recognizing its dedication to environmental responsibility. The drink menu supports the meal with wine pairings and crafted cocktails available all evening. Desserts provide a sweet finish with choices like the Matcha Mango Sponge Cake layered with mango crémeux and matcha chantilly, or the Brownie Sundae finished with coconut whip and brandied cherries.