Exciting news for South Bay food lovers! Suzette, a new authentic French restaurant, has opened in Downtown Chula Vista, bringing European charm and chef-driven cuisine to 310 Third Avenue. The restaurant comes from Jerome Gombert, who made waves in 2006 with his beloved South Park eatery Vagabond. After a twelve-year journey that took him to Rosarito, back to France during the pandemic, and now to Chula Vista, Gombert is ready to share his passion for French cooking once again.
What makes Suzette special is the incredible team behind it. Chef Omar Armas, trained at Italy’s prestigious Apicius culinary school, leads the kitchen. Gombert also enlisted world-renowned chef Marcelo Hisaki to develop the menu and build the culinary team. Hisaki trained at Michelin-starred restaurants and competed in the Bocuse d’Or, often called the Olympics of cooking.
Currently open Wednesday through Sunday from 7 a.m. to 3 p.m., Suzette serves breakfast and lunch, featuring both sweet and savory crepes, croque-monsieurs, and other French classics. The 1,800-square-foot space, designed by Roderick Shade, uses orange, aqua, and off-white to create a bright, modern atmosphere that feels authentically French without the typical clichés. Large windows facing the street flood the space with natural light, while indoor seating for 40 and an outdoor patio for 30 provide plenty of options.
Dinner service is coming soon and will feature traditional dishes like coq au vin, steak au poivre, fish meunière, mussels, and the flaming crepe Suzette dessert that inspired the restaurant’s name. With carefully selected French wines available now and plans for full liquor service later, Suzette fills a notable gap in South Bay dining. Visit Wednesday through Sunday and experience a taste of Paris right here in Downtown Chula Vista.
This month brings an exciting lineup of community events going on around Chula Vista that you won’t want to miss! From cultural celebrations to family festivals, this month offers something special for everyone. Here is our quick list of September 2025 Events you need to check out. Visit our event calendar for the complete list.
Chula Vista El Grito Celebration kicks off the excitement on September 14th at Memorial Park. This authentic Mexican Independence Day festival features headliner Tapy Quintero, mariachi bands, and the stunning Corazón de Aztlán folklorico dancers. Mexican Consul General Carlos Morales performs the ceremonial grito at 6:45 PM, while families enjoy authentic Mexican cuisine and cultural activities.
Côta Vera’s 2nd Annual Rewind Fest transports you back to the ’80s and ’90s on September 20th at Central Square Park. This free, all-ages festival features tribute bands Talking Threads, LA Vation, and Strangelove, plus a retro arcade, artisan vendors, and food trucks. Don’t forget your vintage outfit for the themed photo opportunities!
September 27th brings double the fun with CV ArtFest at City Hall from 12-6 PM, showcasing over 100 local artists displaying paintings, photography, crafts, and culinary creations. The same evening, adults can enjoy Sunset Social at the Living Coast Discovery Center from 5-8 PM. This 21+ event features a live DJ, animal encounters, tarot readings, and craft activities, all set against the beautiful backdrop of San Diego Bay.
Hispanic Heritage Month Celebration at Otay Ranch Town Center wraps up the month on September 30th from 4-7 PM. This vibrant festival coincides with the weekly Farmers’ Market and features the popular “Salsa Under the Stars” dance celebration, complete with live music and beginner-friendly instruction.
Visit the official Chula Vista event calendar to discover all the fantastic events happening this September and start planning your perfect community adventure!
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Summer may be winding down, but September in Chula Vista is heating up with incredible events that bring our community together! From authentic Mexican Independence Day celebrations to retro music festivals and vibrant art shows, this month offers something special for everyone. Whether you’re looking for family fun, cultural experiences, or nightlife adventures, these September events in Chula Vista will create memories you’ll treasure all year long.
Chula Vista El Grito Celebration – September 14
Mark your calendars for Saturday, September 14, because the third annual Chula Vista El Grito celebration returns to Memorial Park! This authentic Mexican Independence Day festival commemorates the historic “Grito de Dolores,” which marked the beginning of Mexico’s fight for independence in 1810.
The evening stars return with headliner Tapy Quintero, alongside multiple mariachi bands and the stunning Corazón de Aztlán folklorico dancers in their traditional, colorful costumes. Mexican Consul General Carlos Morales will perform the ceremonial grito at 6:45 PM. You do not want to miss that.
Families will love the authentic Mexican food from local vendors, fun activities for kids, and educational displays about Mexican history and traditions. Last year’s celebration drew over 3,000 people, filling Memorial Park to capacity. I have never seen this park so busy.
The Chula Vista El Grito Celebration last year was a lot of fun. So many people turned out to celebrate. Make sure you come out this year on September 14th.
Côta Vera 2nd Annual Rewind Fest – September 20
Get ready to party like it’s 1989! The Rewind Fest 2025 returns to Central Square Park at Côta Vera on Saturday, September 20 from 2 PM to 9 PM. This free, all-ages festival celebrates the awesome music and culture of the ’80s and ’90s.
Tribute bands Talking Threads, LA Vation, and Strangelove will transport you back in time with your favorite hits. The fun doesn’t stop there – you’ll find a retro arcade, artisan vendors, a beer and wine garden for adults, and a food truck alley with delicious options for everyone.
Don’t forget to dress up in your best retro outfit for the themed photo backdrops! The event also offers model home and apartment tours for those interested in learning more about the Côta Vera community. No tickets needed, but RSVPs help with planning. You can visit their website here for all the details.
CV ArtFest – September 27
Art lovers, this one’s for you! CV ArtFest 2025 takes over City Hall on Saturday, September 27 from 12 PM to 6 PM. This free, family-friendly celebration features more than 100 local artists showcasing a diverse range of artwork, including paintings, photography, 3D art, jewelry, crafts, and culinary creations.
You’ll enjoy live music, delicious food vendors, and the opportunity to meet talented artists in person. The festival welcomes your furry friends too – it’s completely dog-friendly! CV ArtFest celebrates creativity, culture, and local talent while bringing the South Bay arts scene to life.
Last year, there were numerous vendors offering a wide range of artwork for sale. Make sure you come out and support these local artist.
Sunset Social at Living Coast Discovery Center – September 27
Adults, get ready for an unforgettable evening! The Living Coast Discovery Center hosts Sunset Social on Saturday, September 27 from 5 PM to 8 PM. This 21+ event combines the beautiful scenery of San Diego Bay with exciting entertainment and unique activities.
Dance to a live DJ, snap photos at the photo booth, and test your knowledge with animal-themed trivia. Creative craft stations and close encounters with the center’s animal ambassadors make this evening extra special. For a mystical touch, enjoy tarot readings inspired by stars, sharks, and rays.
My Pozole serves flavorful bites while Kayak Café provides coffee and sweet treats. Beer, wine, and seltzers cost $10 each. Early bird tickets (available August 30 through September 13) include one free drink – a perfect way to connect with nature and friends after hours!
Hispanic Heritage Month Celebration at Otay Ranch Town Center – September 30
Close out the month with Otay Ranch Town Center’s Hispanic Heritage Month Celebration and Family Festival on Tuesday, September 30 from 4 PM to 7 PM. This vibrant event celebrates the rich traditions and contributions of Hispanic culture to our community.
The festival takes place during the weekly Farmers Market, allowing you to support local Hispanic-owned businesses while enjoying cultural performances and live music. Kids will love the Loteria game with prizes, face painting, aphoto booth, and themed character meet-and-greets.
The highlight returns with “Salsa Under the Stars” from 4:30 PM to 7:30 PM. The Manny Cepeda Orchestra quartet provides live salsa music and beginner-friendly dance instruction – no partner needed! This free community celebration perfectly wraps up September’s amazing events.
Don’t Miss Out on September’s Best Events in Chula Vista
September 2025 proves that Chula Vista knows how to celebrate! From honoring Mexican independence to dancing under the stars, these events showcase what makes our community so special. Each celebration brings neighbors together, supports local artists and businesses, and creates the connections that make Chula Vista feel like home.
Ready to join the fun? Visit the official Chula Vista event calendar to discover all the exciting Chula Vista Events September 2025 and come out to have some fun. Remember, we post all of the events on our event calendar.
Chula Vista is about to get a big splash of color & art this month. Mark your calendars, because CV ArtFest 2025 is back on Saturday, September 27, from 12 PM to 6 PM in front of City Hall. This free, family-friendly event is the perfect mix of art, music, and community spirit. It is one of my favorite events with something for everyone.
A Festival Just for the Arts
Now in its fourth year, CV ArtFest has quickly become a local favorite. Think of it as South Bay’s very own art takeover. More than 100 artists will showcase their work, featuring a diverse range of pieces, including paintings, sketches, 3D creations, jewelry, crafts, and even a culinary arts display. If you’ve ever wanted to see just how much talent lives in our community, this is the place.
Every year, the CV ArtFest brings families together to enjoy the artwork, hands-on displays, and live music. Be sure to mark your calendars and come out to enjoy this year’s ArtFest.
Meet the Artists & help support them
One of the best parts? You’ll get to meet the artists face-to-face. Many of them are from Chula Vista and the greater South Bay, and this festival provides them with an opportunity to share their work with the public. Some, like local artist Lee Kohse, bring a Hollywood twist; his credits include official Star Wars artwork and posters for film festivals. At CV Art Fest, you’ll see work that usually ends up in private collections or tucked away in studios. Here, it’s on full display.
More Than Just Art
Art isn’t the only thing on the schedule. Live music will keep the energy going all afternoon, with local performers and bands bringing the stage to life. It’s also dog-friendly, so don’t be surprised if you see a few pups enjoying the vibe while their owners check out the booths. Add in food vendors and community groups, and you’ve got a full-on Saturday outing the family will love.
Here is our video recap of the 2024 event on YouTube.
Why Events Like This Matter
Events like CV ArtFest are more than just fun; they shine a spotlight on the diversity and creativity of our city. For artists, it’s a rare chance to step out of the studio, share their passion, and connect directly with neighbors. For visitors, it’s a chance to support local talent, discover something new, and maybe even take home a one-of-a-kind piece.
Here are all the CV ArtFest 2025 Details
CV ArtFest 2025 will be held at Chula Vista City Hall, located at 276 Fourth Avenue, on Saturday, September 27, 2025, from 12 PM to 6 PM. Admission is free, and the event is dog-friendly. Everyone is encouraged to bring a chair and enjoy live music and entertainment.
This year’s event is shaping up to be one of the most vibrant days of the year in Chula Vista. Whether you’re there to admire, shop, or soak up the atmosphere, it’s the kind of community event that makes you proud to call this place home. Make plans to come out and have some fun.
Will you be heading to CV Art Fest this year? Let me know on Facebook. I’d love to hear what kind of art you’re most excited to see!
