Founded in 1977 in Culiacán, Grupo Los Arcos operates nearly 30 restaurants across Mexico, including Los Arcos, Cabanna, and Lorenza - each renowned for their elevated takes on regional seafood cuisine. La Jollita, led by second-generation restaurateur Alejandro Angulo Lugo and partner Juan de Dios Retamoza Tamayo, translates that same legacy for Southern California, blending Mexican coastal warmth with La Jolla’s sophisticated charm.
The restaurant’s name, which means “little jewel,” reflects its mission: to showcase the jewels of Mexico’s Pacific coast through bold flavors and thoughtful design. The menu, developed from Los Arcos’ most beloved dishes, spans from raw-bar favorites like ceviches, tiraditos, and tostadas, to grilled specialties including zarandeados fish, mezcal-flamed filet mignon, and langosta Puerto Nuevo. Guests can also enjoy tacos such as the Gobernador - a creation originally popularized by the Los Arcos family - along with innovative cocktails and regional desserts.
The space, which once housed Mermaids & Cowboys and Alfonso’s of La Jolla, has been fully reimagined into a bright, ocean-inspired dining room with a heated outdoor terrace overlooking the village. The design mirrors the restaurant’s philosophy of relaxed sophistication, inviting diners to linger over seafood platters and cocktails in true Baja style.
Guided by four core values - quality, tradition, hospitality, and passion for detail - La Jollita aims to deliver an authentic coastal experience that honors the spirit of both Mexico and La Jolla. Open Monday through Thursday from 4-10pm and Friday through Sunday from 11am to 10pm, it’s poised to become one of La Jolla Village's dining destinations.
La Jollita Del Mar Bar & Restaurant is now open at 1251 Prospect Street in San Diego's La Jolla. For more information, visit grupolosarcos.com and check out the launch menu below.
Originally published on November 8, 2025.
