J.T. Bros Sandwich Company, a family-owned sandwich shop based in Yuma, is getting ready to expand with a new location in San Diego at 3225 N. Harbor Drive, Terminal 1, Unit 478.
Founded by Chef Alex Trujillo, the restaurant was inspired by his three sons and a shared love for crafting quality sandwiches. The company now appears to be opening a new location at San Diego International Airport, Terminal 1, under the franchise group Emerging Domestic Market Ventures, according to a recent liquor license application. EDMV is an award-winning, minority-owned airport concessions company that operates a collection of local and boutique brands, which reflect the region’s landscape, as well as national and international brands with widespread recognition.
The menu at J.T. Bros Sandwich Company features a range of options, including tortas, banh mi, wraps, salads, and bowls. Popular items include the Vallarta Especial with short rib and crispy pork belly, a cauliflower “steak” sandwich, and a Wagyu meatball sub. Vegan and vegetarian offerings are also available, including a chipotle veggie patty melt and a garbanzo posole. In addition to dine-in and takeout, J.T. Bros offers catering services for corporate events, weddings, and military functions across Arizona and Southern California.
Gonzalo A. de la Melena Jr. is the Founder and CEO of Emerging Domestic Market Ventures, LLC, an ACDBE-certified airport concessions company with food, beverage, and retail operations in PHX, AZA, SLC, DEN, and SAN airports. Based in Phoenix, the company focuses on diverse business ownership in the airport space. De la Melena is a longtime business leader with experience at Coca-Cola, The Dial Corporation, and in minority business advocacy. Now he will embark on a new venture with the addition of J.T. Bros Sandwich Company in the San Diego International Airport.
The new eatery is a part of San Diego International Airport’s Terminal’s major redevelopment, which is set to enhance the passenger experience with a diverse array of new dining options. The first phase, opening in late summer 2025, will introduce 19 new gates and a variety of eateries, including local favorites like Puesto, Cutwater Restaurant & Bar, and Mostra Coffee, as well as national brands such as Chick-fil-A and McDonald’s. The $3.8 billion project, which began in 2021, is scheduled for completion by 2028, adding 11 additional gates and further amenities to accommodate the airport’s growing passenger demand.
