Juan Carlos Gomez, the restaurateur behind El Agave Mexican Restaurant & Tequileria, appears to be preparing for a new project in San Diego at 2706 5th Avenue.
Gomez submitted a pending Type 47 full liquor license through Five Olives LLC to take over the space previously occupied by Barrio Star, which operated from 2010 until its closure in late 2025. While additional information isn’t available, SanDiegoVille was the first to report the development. No official restaurant name, concept, or opening date has been announced.
Gomez opened El Agave in Old Town in 1996, gaining a reputation for refined regional Mexican cuisine and a collection of more than 2,000 tequilas and mezcals. He has also experimented with other concepts, including Iberico Spanish Bistro in La Jolla and Nômade Tapas & Records in North Park, which focused on small plates paired with music-driven experiences and low-ABV drinks.
Barrio Star was known for modern Mexican soul food and vibrant décor, making it a neighborhood staple for 15 years. While details about Gomez’s new project remain under wraps, the site offers a full bar, dining areas, and a location familiar to San Diego diners, providing a strong foundation for his next venture.
