Welcome to Gilbert's El Indio Restaurant
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2526 Pico Blvd, Santa Monica, CA 90405 Hotline: (310) 450-8057
Step into the vibrant flavors of Mexico at Gilbert's El Indio Restaurant, nestled at 2526 Pico Blvd in sunny Santa Monica, CA. This beloved establishment serves up authentic Mexican breakfast and brunch, making it a cornerstone for locals and visitors alike seeking hearty, flavor-packed dishes and a warm atmosphere.
At Gilbert's, the culinary journey begins with eye-catching appetizers like their Guacamole sprinkled with cheese and mild sauce or the savory Super Nachos, loaded with your choice of asada or chicken. Each dish is a testament to the restaurant's commitment to quality and flavor.
- Enjoy Two Tacos, Tamales, or Chile Rellenos for a taste of traditional antojitos.
- Indulge in hearty Platos Mexicanos like Chile Verde or Carne Asada, where tender cuts of meat are paired with vibrant sauces that awaken the palate.
- Breakfast aficionados will appreciate the extensive menu of breakfast dishes, described by patrons as “massive” and “amazing.”
Every visit to Gilbert's seems to come with a history, as many customers share fond memories dating back years. Reviewer Anastacio A. notes the welcoming service and family-friendly vibe, while Shadi A. proclaims it a “home” for their family. The staff, some of whom have been at the restaurant for years, exude a passion for the food and the experience, further enhancing the sense of community.
The décor is charmingly eclectic, featuring photographs of customers adorning the walls—a testament to the restaurant's dedicated clientele. The ambiance strikes a perfect balance between cozy and casual, making it an ideal spot for both intimate gatherings and lively family meals.
For those who enjoy dining al fresco, Gilbert's expanded outdoor seating area is a standout feature. Diners can relish their meals under the California sun while soaking in the lively atmosphere that pervades the restaurant.
As one first-time visitor described, the flavors at Gilbert's feel genuinely authentic, reminiscent of culinary delights found in Mexico. The Carne Asada is particularly noteworthy; diners rave about its generous portion and juicy preparation, vindicating the allure of this cherished eatery.
Overall, Gilbert's El Indio Restaurant exemplifies a classic Mexican dining experience that's both satisfying and delightful, no matter the time of day. With a menu brimming with options and a welcoming environment, it's a must-visit for anyone craving mouth-watering Mexican fare.
Next time you're near Pico Blvd, don't just pass by—step into a world of flavor and community at Gilbert's El Indio Restaurant. It's not merely a dining experience; it’s a taste of home for many and an exciting destination for all.
El indio !!is one of my favorite place in Santa Monica!!to go and enjoy my breakfast, or lunch!! I always appreciate the customer service and friendly atmosphere. I came here with my family, and my friends. Strongly recommend to you!! Luna is the best ever!!! All the time!!
My family has been coming here for longer than I've been alive. I absolutely love this place! It is home! Food is amazing; staff is extraordinary. Plenty of parking and street parking and quick service! Love it! 1000/10 the best!
Excellent experience. Family has been going here for years and years and the food is still just as good. The chips and salsa is amazing (especially if you ask for the hot salsa) and the pickled veggies are amazing. If you don't know what to get, you can't go wrong with their breakfast dishes. Also, their burritos are massive. The whole menu is great you really can't go wrong with it. The service is awesome as well everyone who works there has been working there for years and you can really tell how much they care about the place. As far as the ambience goes they opened an outdoor area during Covid but everyone loved it so they kept it. Inside is a bunch of booths with lots of decorations. Pretty much every flat surface inside and outside is covered with photos of customers (including one of my mom and dad from their honeymoon!). Definitely a great spot.
Stopped in for my first time this past weekend and was very impressed. That won't be my last time that I dine here. I grew up in San Diego, but moved to LA five years ago but still struggle to find Mexi restaurants in LA that I like as much as back home, but this is certainly one for the books. The flavors are truly great and taste very authentic and as someone that has been down to Mexico for surf and vacation trips countless times it tastes like cuisine down across the border. I would say Gilbert's and Don Antonio's are my two favorite sitdown Mexican restaurants in Santa Monica. This location has a free parking lot in back and they have a very large menu filled with all of the Mexican classics. Our server was very polite and everything we ordered came out super quick. For my meal I chose two of my favorite dishes to order: Albondigas Soup and Carne Asada. Both were absolutely terrific, and the Carne Asada plate was very large in portion size and cooked perfectly. The steak was not as thin as some other cheaper cuts you get at other places, it was very thick and juicy. They also have some great merch and I especially like how they have a lot of indoor and outdoor seating available. Overall Gilbert's is a seriously delicious Mexican restaurant that would hit the spot no matter the time of day that you visit. I would recommend to anyone searching for a good Mexican meal and I definitely plan to be back again in the near future.
The chase: Go! Exemplary "classic" Mexican restaurant that serves wonderful "classical" style Mexican fare. Bonus: some of the best tortilla chips in the universe (or at least the West Los Angeles-Santa Monica part of the universe). This place has two different vibes -- the spacious light and airy, somewhat hip and yet easy going outside, and the dark(er) post-WW2 "Noir-ish dive-bar-esque" interior. I prefer the inside with it's private feeling booths, photos of local regulars past and (more) present. It's a time capsule, so to speak. (Formosa Cafe, anyone?) [My dining companion considers this place to be a lower energy cousin to Lares, which is also a favorite for different reasons.] Service is friendly though not warm, but I get the sense they warm up for regulars. Last visit -- ample enchilada plate with rice and cheese smothered beans. Anything I've had here has been solid, tasty and satisfying.