New Mexican Brunch Concept From Cazadores And Cotijas Ownership Replacing Comedor Nishi In Longtime Coffee Cup Space In La Jolla

Another change is coming to one of La Jolla Village’s most recognizable restaurant spaces, as a new concept from the family behind Cazadores Mexican Food and Cotija’s Taco Shop is preparing to take over the corner property formerly home to Comedor Nishi - and, for nearly three decades before that, the beloved Coffee Cup Café.
According to California Department of Alcoholic Beverage Control records, a Type 41 beer and wine license has been filed under Cazadores Mexican Grill Inc., listing Rafael Barragán Rodríguez as president and chief executive officer. Although the corporate entity is the same, the forthcoming restaurant will not be another Cazadores or Cotija’s location, but rather a brand-new concept developed by the Barragán family that will focus on affordability and community access.

The new eatery will specialize in traditional Mexican breakfast and lunch dishes with an approachable brunch menu that transitions into more casual offerings throughout the day. Guests can expect a selection of tacos, chilaquiles, huevos rancheros, and a full coffee program designed to cater to both locals and visitors. The project is being led by Barragán and his two children, representing the family’s third generation in the restaurant industry.

The restaurant is currently under design and renovation at 1109 Wall Street, where Comedor Nishi operated for just over a year. Launched in August 2024 by Shōwa Hospitality - the group behind The Taco Stand - Comedor Nishi offered a Japanese-Mexican fusion brunch menu featuring dishes such as duck carnitas, matcha conchas, and chilaquiles with Japanese-style salsa roja. Despite positive reviews, the inventive concept quietly shuttered this fall.

For nearly thirty years prior, the site was home to Coffee Cup Café, a local institution and breakfast favorite that closed in 2023. The address remains one of the most desirable — and challenging — restaurant spaces in La Jolla Village, where turnover has accelerated amid rising costs and a competitive brunch market.

While public filings list the business under Cazadores Mexican Grill Inc., this is understood to be a technical step in the licensing process rather than the restaurant’s final name. The new concept is targeting a March 2026 debut, pending construction and permitting.

With decades of local restaurant experience and a new generation stepping forward, the Barragán family’s latest project aims to continue their tradition of accessible, community-oriented Mexican dining in the heart of La Jolla.

The new Mexican brunch restaurant is expected to open in early 2026 at 1109 Wall Street, La Jolla, CA 92037.

Originally published on October 20, 2025.