"Located on a stretch of Pico with an unusually high concentration of dental offices, Gilbert’s is a Santa Monica landmark from the '70s that does classic Mexican food in a festive space filled with tchotchkes. Mostly, it's a fun place for a night out that involves margaritas by the pitcher. You won’t find any flashy takes here, but you will find huge, delicious burritos, solid crispy shell tacos, and little sides of pickled carrots served with the chips and salsa (a nice touch). Bring people who won’t judge you for having mole dripping down your chin. You’ll be too busy slipping into a food coma to care." - brant cox, garrett snyder, arden shore