Though still in early development, Fonda del Barrio is envisioned by City Tacos founder Gerry Torres as a vibrant and immersive dining experience that will transport diners to their favorite Pueblo Mágico (magical town), drawing inspiration from culturally rich regions like Oaxaca, San Miguel de Allende, San Cristóbal, and Tlaquepaque. The menu will focus on traditional, "super old school" regional Mexican cuisine, showcasing the history, diversity, and heritage of these areas in a recreated hacienda-style environment.
Complementing the food will be an authentic craft cocktail program spotlighting today's most popular Latin-inspired drinks, a curated selection of craft Mexican beers, and favorite non-alcoholic beverages. Torres says the project is also deeply personal and hopes Fonda del Barrio will serve as a source of pride for the Latino community and its ancestral roots.
The restaurant will open following a full interior remodel, with a projected debut in late 2025. The transformation marks another ambitious pivot for Torres, who has spent the past decade expanding his culinary footprint across San Diego County.
Founded in 2014, City Tacos has grown into a beloved brand with locations from North Park to the University of Southern California campus. Torres' latest concept, Tour de Tapas, opened in La Mesa’s Village district in late 2024 and showcases a menu of European-inspired small plates, reflecting his evolving culinary vision.
Now, with the move into Barrio Logan, Torres enters a neighborhood rich in cultural significance but challenged by recent closures of beloved institutions. His new project follows the shuttering of Barrio Dogg, which closed in January after seven years of celebrating Chicano heritage through gourmet hot dogs, local craft beer, and a vibrant lowrider-themed atmosphere.
Barrio Dogg’s original location had become a cultural anchor in the neighborhood before quietly closing without public notice. The loss followed other high-profile departures in Barrio Logan, including Salud, Border X Brewing, and La Bodega, fueling concerns over the sustainability of small businesses in the historic Latino enclave.
Fonda del Barrio will open at 2234 Logan Avenue in San Diego's Barrio Logan neighborhood.
Originally published on May 5, 2025.
