Border Grill

Not super expensive, but pricey enough that 2 people dining is going to run you $100.

This place is very likely owned by the same people as Ciudad, as I found the food/drink menu and decorations to be nearly identical. Unfortunately, another identical element is also the POOR service. I think I waited 55 minutes today to get the check after I had finished my food, and I waited at least 15 at the bar before being able to get a drink at the bar. LAME. This place is not nearly cool enough to be treated so poorly.

Other than that, I have to say the food is delicious. They do a much better job of food preparation than Cuidad. Nice flavors, unique dishes and generally great chefs make this an interesting option in Santa Monica. Although it's called Border Grill, which leads one to think it's Mexican food, there is definitely a caribbean flair, making this much more like Cuban food, a la Ciudad.