Just weeks after announcing the closure of its long-standing La Mesa location, Carnitas Uruapan is bringing its famed carnitas and rolled tacos to a new East County address. The beloved family-owned Mexican restaurant will open a new outpost in the former Santiago's Mexican & Seafood in Lemon Grove, continuing its legacy with the same ownership, kitchen team, and signature recipes that have earned it citywide acclaim since 1986.
The new location follows the May 1 closure of the Spring Street branch, which had served La Mesa for 13 years. That shutdown was attributed to unresolved parking conflicts with the property’s landlord, reportedly related to the arrival of a new neighboring Italian deli. Despite the abrupt exit from La Mesa, Carnitas Uruapan pledged to continue serving its loyal customers - and this Lemon Grove expansion delivers on that promise.
Founded nearly four decades ago, Carnitas Uruapan has become a staple in San Diego’s culinary scene, particularly renowned for its namesake carnitas, crispy rolled tacos, and generous combo plates. With its flagship location still operating at 7149 El Cajon Boulevard in the Rolando neighborhood, the addition of the Lemon Grove branch offers East County fans a new place to indulge.
Carnitas Uruapan is expected to open this spring at 7941 Broadway in San Diego's East County city of Lemon Grove. For more information, visit ordercarnitasuruapanmesa.com.
Originally published on May 5, 2025.
