Mojitos? Ciudad has more than mastered that lime-lovely beverage. In just the short decade that the restaurant, which puts a contemporary spin on Latin cuisines from around the globe, has been open, Angelenos have come to consider it the go-to place for that particular cocktail. In a town that takes its liquid libations seriously -- and let's not even start on drinks made with citrus, because LA is totally all over citrus-y concoctions, like we own 'em or something -- that is saying something huge.
What's also huge is the festive celebration on now at the eatery. November is Ciudad's birthday month, and owners Mary Sue Milliken and Susan Feniger -- who also founded guac-alicious Border Grill -- want to share the happy time with guests. The party favors are many: discounted prices, some just-for-November menu items, 10 percent off for parties of 10 or more and prizes every single day through the end of the month (these include a few pull-out-the-stops dinners for two -- good stuff).
The special sangria, one of the sips on the birthday-month menu, especially intrigues. Pineapple and melon are in the fruit mix, and there's a splash of Spanish brandy added to the vino. An ideal refresher for the edge of winter, and a tasty way to toast one of downtown's most flavorful hot spots.
445 S. Figueroa Street, Los Angeles
213-486-5171