A major player in Mexico's elite culinary scene is crossing the border—straight into the heart of La Jolla. The upcoming opening of La Jollita Del Mar Bar & Restaurant marks a significant moment for San Diego dining, as Grupo Los Arcos, one of Mexico's top restaurant empires, prepares to plant its flag on U.S. soil in one of the most iconic coastal communities in California.
Public records confirm that Alejandro Angulo Lugo, heir to the Los Arcos empire, along with business partner Juan de Dios Retamoza Tamayo, are behind the ambitious new concept, set to open in the historic space that previously housed Aldea, Mermaids & Cowboys, and the beloved Alfonso’s of La Jolla. In an email, Retamoza shared that the project, born after years of searching since 2020, aims to highlight and enhance the flavors of the sea - a tradition championed by Angulo and the Grupo Los Arcos team, with Retamoza and industry experts shaping the vision. While no official opening date has been announced, industry insiders expect the venue to debut later this year.
La Jollita Del Mar seeks to bring the "Jewels" of Grupo Los Arcos' best dishes to the U.S., focusing on a menu based on fresh seafood - think tostadas, ceviches, tiraditos - alongside tacos and zarandeados, which Retamoza describes as "our flavors and core." The space will embody the laid-back, sun-soaked charm of coastal living with a Mexican influence in both food and design, while emphasizing care in food, service, and ambiance, respecting the group’s legacy of learning and growth.
Founded in 1977 in Culiacán, Grupo Los Arcos has grown into a gastronomic powerhouse, operating nearly 30 restaurants across Mexico, including the legendary Los Arcos, the trendsetting Cabanna, and the haute Mexican concept Lorenza. With a reputation for pioneering dishes like the famous Gobernador taco and innovative cocktails served in stunning architectural spaces, the group is synonymous with quality, creativity, and consistency.Public records confirm that Alejandro Angulo Lugo, heir to the Los Arcos empire, along with business partner Juan de Dios Retamoza Tamayo, are behind the ambitious new concept, set to open in the historic space that previously housed Aldea, Mermaids & Cowboys, and the beloved Alfonso’s of La Jolla. In an email, Retamoza shared that the project, born after years of searching since 2020, aims to highlight and enhance the flavors of the sea - a tradition championed by Angulo and the Grupo Los Arcos team, with Retamoza and industry experts shaping the vision. While no official opening date has been announced, industry insiders expect the venue to debut later this year.
La Jollita Del Mar seeks to bring the "Jewels" of Grupo Los Arcos' best dishes to the U.S., focusing on a menu based on fresh seafood - think tostadas, ceviches, tiraditos - alongside tacos and zarandeados, which Retamoza describes as "our flavors and core." The space will embody the laid-back, sun-soaked charm of coastal living with a Mexican influence in both food and design, while emphasizing care in food, service, and ambiance, respecting the group’s legacy of learning and growth.
The La Jolla opening signals more than just another restaurant debut - it represents the group’s first major expansion into the U.S. For the Los Arcos family, long known for their commitment to sustainability, sourcing excellence, and culinary innovation, La Jolla offers a natural extension of their brand ethos: proximity to the Pacific, a sophisticated local audience, and a strong cross-border cultural connection.
La Jollita Del Mar is anticipated to open later this year at 1251 Prospect Street in San Diego's La Jolla. For more information, visit grupolosarcos.com.
Originally published on May 19, 2025.
