COVER STORY : Food Palette

For those who want to plan a full afternoon or evening around a CalArts performance, here are a few nearby restaurants:

* Mel’s Landing, 25864 Tournament Road, Valencia, offers fresh fish and some pasta, chicken and steak entrees. Lunch 11 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. Mondays through Fridays; dinner 5 to 10 p.m. Tuesdays through Sundays. Dinner for two, approximately $25. (805) 254-3474.

* Gerard’s Fine Dining, 23329 W. Lyons Ave., Valencia, features continental French and Italian cuisine. Lunch 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Mondays through Fridays; dinner 5 to 10:30 p.m. every day. Dinner for two, $40 to $50. (805) 253-0995.

* Mitch’s Java and Jazz, 22722 Lyons Ave., Newhall, is a European-style coffeehouse with wood floors and an upstairs living room. There is live music every night, often provided by CalArts jazz students. Hours are 6:30 a.m. to midnight Sundays through Thursdays; 6:30 a.m. to 1 a.m. Fridays and Saturdays. Coffee drinks range from $1 to $3. Cheesecakes, scones and rolls are also served. (805) 254-7500.