R Place Bar & Eatery, a sister concept of the now-closed R Place Sports Bar & Grill in downtown, will soon open in Hillcrest at 1027 University Ave.
The company’s new location is set to move into the former home of Barrel & Board, according to a recent liquor license application. Co-owner Demecio Meneses tells What Now San Diego that he and co-owner Juan Flores plan to open this location on February 9, catering to the LGBTQ+ community while providing upscale bar food. Like its sister concept, customers can expect handcrafted Mexican-American bar fare, cocktails, draft beer, and a few new menu options.
This is a massive accomplishment for the business, which previously lived outside Petco Park at 315 Tenth Avenue, where Swagyu Burger is expected to open its seventh location in early February. Now, R Place is set to open further north in Hillcrest and pivoting from being sports-focused to celebrating the LGBTQ+ community that it will soon join. Indoor and outdoor spaces will be available for customers. The owners hope this will become a welcome neighboring hangout spot with a vibrant ambiance where guests can drop in at their leisure with no reservations required. This will be the company’s fifth location, according to Meneses, who tells What Now San Diego that all locations have been successful, which is impressive considering the business started with only ten tables.
“R- PLACE offers a unique and friendly LGBTQ+ atmosphere for patrons to unwind and enjoy food and drinks,” according to the new Yelp page. “As a year-round destination, guests can experience the best of both worlds, Mexican-American. For those seeking a more exclusive experience, we offer private rooms that cater to intimate gatherings and special occasions. Whether it’s a birthday celebration, corporate event, or romantic rendezvous, our dedicated spaces provide the perfect backdrop for memorable moments shared with loved ones. Join us and discover why we’re renowned for offering not just a bar but an experience unlike any other, offering great drinks, food, sports, and customer service.”
