Mary Sue Milliken and Susan Feniger are closing their pan-Latin hot-spot Ciudad early next month. Worse news? A new location of Border Grill will take over the space, soft-opening shortly after Ciudad’s last dance on October 2nd. Though it seemed to be on its way to becoming a veteran of “the new” Downtown, the offerings at Ciudad still felt noticeably fresher than the duo’s take on Mexican food that has persisted in Santa Monica for 20 years, following a shorter stint on Melrose. So why the transition?
The Border Grill brand name is the Too Hot Tamales’ most marketable venture, with a food truck, Downtown lunch spot, and even a Vegas restaurant of the same name, so a new Downtown location is clearly a necessity to continue cashing in.
To celebrate (or mourn) the passing of Ciudad, special offers are planned throughout the month, starting tonight with a $10 dining card for the forthcoming Border Grill given to every guest. While we shed a tear for Tapas Sundays and half-off mojitos at happy hour, you can follow the Border Grill Downtown via Facebook and Twitter.
Border Grill Downtown plans an early October soft-opening, followed by a grand-opening to be announced. 445 S. Figueroa St. Downtown. 213-486-5171.
