Border X Brewing opened its Barrio Logan location at 2181 Logan Avenue in 2014, shortly after its founding in Otay Mesa. The brewery was known not just for its innovative beers like the Jamaica Saison and Mexican Chocolate Stout but also for its role as a cultural and community anchor.
Owned by David Favela, Border X played an integral role in fostering local talent and businesses, including helping to launch Mujeres Brew House, San Diego's first all-female-led brewery, also located in Barrio Logan. The brewery's contributions to the local culture earned it recognition, including a James Beard Award nomination for Outstanding Wine, Spirits, or Beer Producer. Border X had previously opened a large venue in Southeast Los Angeles in 2019, which unfortunately closed its doors last year, highlighting the financial strain that has now culminated in the Barrio Logan location's closure.
The closure of Border X follows the expiration of the company’s lease in December 2024 and unresolved financial challenges, including back rent owed on the property. In mid-November 2024, they posted a plea for assistance on their social media and launched a GoFundMe to help with outstanding debts. The 2,500-square-foot space, which became a cultural hub for the community, is now available for lease at $15,000 per month, with a 3-5 year term listed by Foster Hamilton Real Estate Consultants.
Despite its achievements, Border X Brewing faced significant setbacks in recent years. Like many small businesses, the brewery was deeply impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic and struggled to recover from the economic fallout. The company carried debts accrued during the pandemic closures, making it challenging to renew the lease on its Barrio Logan space.
The closure of Border X Brewing is the latest in a series of challenges facing businesses in Barrio Logan. The neighborhood, a historical center of Latino culture, has seen other cherished establishments close in recent years, including Salud, a popular taco spot, and La Bodega, an art gallery and community hub. Even longstanding icons like Las Cuatro Milpas, a 91-year-old taco shop, face financial and operational difficulties, underscoring the challenges of sustaining small businesses in the area.
As of now, it is unclear whether Border X Brewing plans to relocate or establish a new location. The brewery expressed a desire to continue its work within the Barrio Logan community in earlier statements but has not made any official announcements following the closure.
For more information about Border X Brewing, visit borderxbrewing.com.
Originally published on January 16, 2025.
