If you can... go over to la.eats to see the discussion going on over there about the same thing. The Border Grill is a loud crowded restaurant where reservations for dinner are a must (although this wasn't true 3 years ago). The place has become a tourist spot for foodies. The food is good, not incredible. Portions are small. The fruits and vegetables are fresh. Margaritas are fabulous. The room is unique with funky large paintings all over the ceilings and a very open feel. If you like a nightlife scene, make a reservation for about 8:30pm on a weekend. Come early and drink in the bar. You'll get some good people watching in before your meal. If you prefer a quiet meal which focuses more on the food and the restaurant itself, make a reservation for lunch. During the day, late lunch time, you may even catch a glimpse of one of the Hot Tamales working in the kitchen. When the place is crowded it's hard to see what the place really looks like... it's also hard to hear yourself think! Whether it's worth an extra trip... that depends on whether you're a big fan or not. For better food, at cheaper prices, with not as much atmosphere... La Seranata DeGharabaldi on Pico in West LA. But the Border Grill is on 4th St. in Santa Monica, which is one block over from the 3rd street promenade... which offers shopping, movies, incredibly diverse people to stare at, and street performances. With that in mind... it's not really an extra trip, it's an essential stop on your tour of Western Los Angeles County. Enjoy!
Los Angeles, CA