Cocina De Barrio, a Oaxacan-inspired Mexican restaurant in North Park, had its front window smashed in on Sunday, a day in which San Diego and many other cities around the country saw mass protests against recent immigration enforcement actions. Law enforcement has not yet released information regarding potential suspects or motives for the vandalism at Cocina De Barrio, but the timing and the presence of the sign suggest that the restaurant may have been targeted for its public stance on immigration.听
The vandalism at Cocina De Barrio in North Park, which had a sign in its window reading, "In Support of A Day Without Immigrants Closed on February 3, 2025", might not be an isolated incident but part of a broader tension in the community amidst these aggressive immigration enforcement actions. Troops have been deployed in San Diego as part of President Donald Trump's initiative to tighten border security. Last Friday, Marines were spotted at the Imperial Beach Border Patrol Station, where tents, concertina wire, and military vehicles were positioned in a staging area.听
The White House also released footage of U.S. Marines along the border wall, reinforcing Trump鈥檚 commitment to cracking down on illegal immigration. A total of 1,500 troops, including 500 from Camp Pendleton, have been assigned to this mission, which includes repairing and reinforcing physical barriers. Meanwhile, California Attorney General Bob Bonta visited San Diego on a 鈥淜now Your Rights鈥� tour, aiming to reassure immigrant communities amid rising fears.
Adding to the tension, reports of increased ICE raids have surfaced across San Diego. Thousands of ICE officers have been dispatched to the region as part of a large-scale operation to apprehend and deport undocumented immigrants. The nationwide operation aims to facilitate the removal of approximately听100,000 immigrants听back to听Mexico and Central American countries, marking one of the听largest migrant raids听in recent times.听
A mile-long line of Department of Homeland Security and Customs and Border Protection vehicles has been seen near Camp Pendleton. Immigration arrests have surged, with daily deportations reportedly reaching over 1,000 people, far exceeding previous averages. These developments have left many immigrants and their families living in fear, especially as federal agents expand their operations into sanctuary cities like San Diego.
The "Day Without Immigrants" initiative encourages businesses to close in solidarity with immigrant communities and to highlight their contributions to society. The nationwide protest is aimed at demonstrating the vital role immigrants play in the U.S. economy.
Cocina De Barrio recently opened its North Park location at 2884 University Avenue, taking over the former Saiko Sushi space. The restaurant is operated by Executive Chef and co-owner Jose J. Flores and his wife, Karla Ruiz. This marks the fourth Cocina De Barrio location in San Diego, with other outposts in Hillcrest, Point Loma, and Encinitas. Known for its traditional Oaxacan menu, the restaurant has built a reputation for its tlayudas, enfrijoladas, tamales, and mezcal-focused bar program.
All Cocina De Barrio locations will be closed on Monday in observance of A Day Without Immigrants. It should be noted that some of the restaurants are typically closed on Mondays.
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Originally published on February 3, 2025.
