Modern Mexican cuisine awaits those who book a table at Border Grill in Santa Monica. Risk-taking Chefs Mary Sue Milliken and Susan Feniger are pioneers who are credited with creating this restaurant in 1990 that delivered to Angelenos something they had never experienced: authentic, innovative and gourmet Latin cuisine bursting with flavors. The place has a definite seductive Latin flair about it—large murals that look like Keith Haring teamed up with Banksy over many margaritas adorn the walls. Ceiling cubes of cascade from the ceiling. All around erupting in fun and merriment are tables full of millennials obviously digging with gusto in to the Mexican cuisine that sings of a deft modern twist. Let’s get one thing straight: Border Grill has the best guacamole in town. And the wine list is terrific and well-priced. The list of beers both local and imported is impressive. And the cocktails potent. Try a cucumber jalapeno margarita, it’s refreshing and tasty. The offerings from the kitchen are extensive—yes there are quesadillas, empanadas, ceviche and tortas but we gravitated to the more creative dishes like chicken Poblano and Yucatan pork roasted in banana leaves. Both were knockout dishes. One of the things we like best about Border Grill is their commitment to sustainability. The chefs use only organic rice and beans and GMO-free oil. They source only humane-certified, antibiotic and hormone-free meats and poultry. No artificial trans-fats are ever to be found here. And only sustainable seafood is served. Friendly Kim Gile, the manager, oversees all with a sure and gracious hand. With locations in L.A., Santa Monica, at LAX and in Las Vegas, you cannot go wrong with Border Grill if you’re after reliable, authentic, scrumptious Mexican dishes cooked with innovative skills and spices and served in an atmosphere of fun and good cheer. Border Grill Santa Monica, 1445 4th St.
Santa Monica, CA 90401, (310) 451.1655; http://www.bordergrill.com.