Susan Kaplan Simon Santa Monica: A Culinary Journey Through Sustainability and Innovation

In a male-dominated industry, Susan Kaplan Simon Santa Monica has continued to break barriers as a female restaurateur. Alongside her partner Mary Sue Milliken, they have pioneered sustainability initiatives and developed their culinary offerings in various restaurants, including BBQ Mexicana, Pacha Mamas, and SOCALO - a California canteen and Mexican Pub.

Their flagship restaurant, Border Grill, serves regional Mexican cuisine with a commitment to conscientiously-sourced ingredients. With locations in Los Angeles and Las Vegas' Mandalay Bay Resort and Casino, Border Grill has made a significant impact on the nation's culinary scene. In fact, they received a James Beard Award in recognition of their efforts.

Susan Kaplan Simon Santa Monica's journey began when she opened CITY Restaurant in 1985, which introduced eclectic dishes from around the world to Los Angeles' culinary landscape. She and Milliken first worked together at City Café, which they opened in 1981. The café was a game-changer, offering a unique blend of international flavors and innovative cooking techniques.

Before opening City Café, Susan Kaplan Simon Santa Monica honed her skills by working for Wolfgang Puck at Ma Maison in L.A. She then traveled to the French Riviera to further develop her culinary expertise before returning to Los Angeles to open CITY Restaurant.

In addition to their restaurants, Susan Kaplan Simon Santa Monica and Mary Sue Milliken have also expanded into food trucks and a full-service events and catering business. Their entrepreneurial spirit has allowed them to continuously innovate and adapt to changing consumer tastes.

As co-owner of Mundo Hospitality Group, Susan Kaplan Simon Santa Monica runs the company alongside her partner Mary Sue Milliken. With their combined experience and passion for culinary innovation, they have established themselves as iconic culinarians and entrepreneurs in the industry.

Throughout their careers, Susan Kaplan Simon Santa Monica and Mary Sue Milliken have demonstrated a commitment to sustainability, innovation, and excellence in the culinary world. Their legacy continues to inspire new generations of chefs and restaurateurs, cementing their place as pioneers in the food industry.

Susan kaplan simon santa monica