In June 2021, Matt Spencer's SDCM restaurant group, known for local hotspots like Kettner Exchange, Firehouse, and The Grass Skirt, took over ownership of the 13-year-old El Camino cantina from its original founders, Mauricio Couturier and Ricardo Muller. Spencer transformed the space into Camino Riviera, an indoor-outdoor nightlife destination inspired by Mexico's Riviera Maya. Earlier this year, the group also acquired the adjacent Wolfie's Carousel Bar from Couturier, reopening it as Wilma's Carousel.
Earlier this week, the SDCM team announced Camino Riviera's temporary closure on social media, stating: "Amigos, Camino Riviera will be closed starting Tuesday, November 19th through Monday, December 9th. We look forward to welcoming you back in December!"
It has been confirmed that Camino Riviera's Type-47 liquor license was suspended for 20 days. According to the California Department of Alcoholic Beverage Control, the suspension stemmed from violations of license conditions related to entertainment on the restaurant's outdoor patio. SDCM representatives did not respond to requests for comment by the time of publication.
This is not the first high-profile San Diego establishment to face such challenges recently. Polite Provisions, a popular cocktail bar in Normal Heights, also had its liquor license suspended earlier this month, leading to a temporary closure until at least January 2025. The bar's suspension stemmed from a series of compliance issues, underscoring the heightened regulatory scrutiny faced by local hospitality businesses.
Camino Riviera, located at 2400 India Street, plans to reopen in December following the suspension period. For updates, visit caminoriviera.com.
Camino Riviera, located at 2400 India Street, plans to reopen in December following the suspension period. For updates, visit caminoriviera.com.
Originally published on November 21, 2024.
