Carmen Rodriguez had a dream to start her own restaurant. Despite being the mother of nine children and employed at La Cabana, Carmen was determined to make her dream a reality. With the support of her husband Gilberto, the couple opened the best Mexican restaurant in Santa Monica on May 20, 1974. Gilbert’s El Indio pays homage to the indigenous peoples of Latin America, including Gilberto’s own Native-Mexican heritage. He infused the restaurant with different aspects of native culture–including the iconic t-shirts with the Aztec warrior, Montezuma.

Fifty years later, Gilbert’s El Indio continues to be the product of love, perseverance and family. From the first day we opened our doors in 1974 to the recent years of economic hardships caused by the COVID-19 pandemic, we appreciate the commitment and support of the local community. Together, we celebrate the resilience de nuestra familia y amigos who continue to make the Rodriguez family’s dream of operating a family-owned restaurant a reality. 

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Gilbert’s El Indio 

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