Michel Richard became a nationally-renowned chef in Los Angeles in the 1980s, and he opened his first Citronelle restaurant in Santa Barbara, California in 1989.

[1] In 1993, he opened Citronelle at the Latham Hotel at 3000 M St. NW in Georgetown, Washington, D.C., hiring Etienne Jaulin as the executive chef.

"[3] A Washingtonian magazine review noted the "sense of festivity," highlighting the Reuben sandwiche ravioli and Richard's re-envisioning of a Kit Kat bar.

[4] The New York Times called Citronelle "one of the most consistently excellent newcomers" in the D.C. dining scene.

[5] In its early days, Citronelle was a regular destination for members of President Bill Clinton's administration.