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Four new restaurants coming to Eastlake

Here are four new restaurants set to open in the Eastlake area. I’m really looking forward to Yard House at the Otay Ranch Town Center, which is expected to open in September. I’m unsure about the other restaurants’ opening dates, but I’ll keep you updated. Which one are you most excited about?

1. Luscious Dumplings

2. Yard House

3. 356 Korean BBQ & Bar

4. Okayama Steakhouse

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Gaylord Pacific Resort Brings 10+ New Dining Destinations to Chula Vista’s Waterfront

Chula Vista’s waterfront is about to become our city’s premier culinary hotspot with the opening of Gaylord Pacific Resort & Convention Center in early 2025. Located just seven miles from downtown San Diego, this expansive resort will feature more than 10 distinct restaurants that promise to elevate the local dining scene, all while offering breathtaking views of San Diego Bay and the Chula Vista Marina.

We’re just 15 days away from the grand opening of the Gaylord Pacific Resort in Chula Vista! The resort will be open for visitors from May 16th to May 18th, and it’s going to be an amazing experience. One topic we’ve received many questions about is the dining options available at the resort. Let’s explore that!

A Culinary Revolution on Our Waterfront

Whether you’re a Chula Vista resident looking for new dining options or planning a visit to the area, these restaurants will be open to both resort guests and the public, creating new gathering spaces for our community to enjoy.

Old Hickory Steakhouse: A Premium Dining Experience

The resort’s flagship restaurant will deliver an upscale yet approachable dining experience featuring premium beef cuts and fresh seafood. Their signature Surf & Turf selections will be paired with an impressive California-centric wine list showcasing vintages from Paso Robles to Baja. Perfect for special occasions or an elevated night out, Old Hickory will likely become Chula Vista’s premier steakhouse destination.

Gaylord Pacific Resort dining options
I’ve heard from others that the Old Hickory Restaurant is a must-try, and the dining area is beautiful. Photo Credit: Port of San Diego

Trēō Kitchen + Bar: Farm-to-Table California Cuisine

This versatile restaurant will spotlight seasonal ingredients sourced from local farmers and fishermen. With breakfast, lunch, and dinner service available daily, Trēō will offer a range of options, from fresh morning pastries to sophisticated evening entrées featuring the region’s finest bounty. The restaurant’s design will showcase panoramic bay views, making it an instant favorite for both everyday dining and special occasions.

Craft Beverages and Sports Entertainment

Sports enthusiasts will find their home at Growlers Sports Bar & Taproom, where a rotating selection of San Diego craft beers and hearty bar fare can be enjoyed while watching games on an impressive 75-foot screen – the largest sports viewing screen in South Bay. This is one I can not wait for. I have already seen some videos of the bar area and it looks incredible. It reminds me of a sports bar in Las Vegas.

The resort’s central atrium will feature Oeste Bar, where skilled mixologists will blend traditional techniques with Mexican heritage, offering premium tequilas and mezcals in a vibrant setting. Near the main entrance, Mariner’s Bar will welcome visitors with a cozy fireplace and coastal-inspired cocktails that capture California’s relaxed sophistication.

Growlers Sports Bar in Chula Vista
I can already see this being the go-to spot for Super Bowls, fight nights, and so many other big events. Growlers Sports Bar at the Gaylord Pacific Resort. Photo Credit: Port of San Diego

Quick and Casual Options for Every Taste

For those seeking a quick bite, PCH Café & Market will offer specialty coffee, fresh pastries, and grab-and-go meals perfect for busy mornings or midday breaks. Reservations won’t be required for this casual spot.

Sushi aficionados should make plans to visit Taiyō, where fresh, sustainable seafood will be transformed into creative rolls and Japanese-inspired dishes, available for both dine-in and takeaway options.

Poolside Retreats with Distinct Flavors

The Gaylord Pacific Resort’s outdoor spaces will feature two specialized dining venues. Shallow End Grill will serve family-friendly boardwalk classics and healthier alternatives near the main pool. Expect fish tacos, gourmet burgers, and refreshing salads perfect for a day of swimming.

For adults seeking a more sophisticated poolside experience, Sunny’s will offer Baja-inspired dishes and handcrafted tropical cocktails in an atmosphere that feels like a private beach club. While these venues will primarily serve resort guests, special dining packages for locals are expected to be announced closer to opening.

More Than Meals: Culinary Experiences

What distinguishes Gaylord Pacific’s dining collection isn’t just variety—it’s their commitment to creating memorable experiences that celebrate our region’s culinary heritage. Executive Chef Marcus Johnson (formerly of renowned California restaurants) has designed menus that showcase local ingredients while honoring diverse culinary traditions.

“We want these restaurants to become destinations not just for tourists, but places our Chula Vista neighbors will be proud to bring friends and family,” notes Johnson. “Each venue tells part of our region’s story through food.”

What The Gaylord Pacific Resort Means for Chula Vista

For our community, these new dining destinations represent more than just new places to eat—they signal Chula Vista’s emergence as South Bay’s culinary and hospitality leader. With price points ranging from casual to upscale, these venues will offer options for everyday dining, business lunches, and special celebrations.

The openings will also create approximately 400 new food service jobs in our community, providing career opportunities for local culinary talent who may have previously commuted to downtown San Diego.

Be sure to follow the Port of San Diego so you can stay up-to-date with all the new developments coming to the Chula Vista Bayfront.

Join the Excitement

As we approach the resort’s 2025 opening, look for announcements about preview events and reservation opportunities. The resort’s management has hinted at special preview dinners and local resident discount programs to introduce these restaurants to our community.

Want to stay informed about opening dates and special offers? Sign up for our community newsletter or follow us on social media for the latest updates about Gaylord Pacific Resort and all the delicious new options coming to our Chula Vista waterfront.

Have you visited other Gaylord Resort locations? Which of these upcoming restaurants are you most excited to try? Let us know on Facebook!

Strong Community Turnout for Bonita Fire Department Annual Pancake Breakfast this morning

The Bonita Fire Department Annual Pancake Breakfast was a huge success this year, bringing the community together on Sunday, April 27th for a morning filled with delicious food, good company, and an inspiring show of support. The event was hosted at the Bonita Sunnyside Fire District, and it was wonderful to see the line of people waiting to grab a plate of pancakes and join in the festivities.

Fire Captain Jason Oosterbaan shared with me that the proceeds from the event support several essential programs, including the Burn Institute, the Sweetwater Valley Little League, the Bonita Safety Center, and the Bonita Museum. Additionally, the department participates in the demolition derby at the Del Mar Fairgrounds, which is scheduled this year for June 15th. Events like these not only support important causes but also provide opportunities for the community to meet and engage with local fire personnel. Events like this are a great way to come out and ask questions.

“We had an amazing outpouring from the community. Everybody is super supportive. Last year we had close to 400 people, and this year I think we’re going to have close to 500,” said Jason Oosterbaan. It was clear that the bond between the Bonita community and its fire department continues to grow stronger each year.

To see the full interview with Jason Oosterbaan, watch it on our YouTube channel here

The Fire Department’s Pancake Breakfast was a great reminder of how important it is to take time to connect with the people who serve our neighborhoods every day. Guests had the chance to ask questions, share stories, take photos, and hear firsthand experiences from the firefighters. It’s events like this that truly highlight the strong spirit of community in Bonita. You also had a chance to grab some Bonita Sunnyside Fire Department swag. They had t-shirts for sale that also support local programs.

If you missed the Pancake Breakfast this time, make sure to stay connected for future events. Follow the Bonita Fire Department on Instagram for updates, event announcements, and ways to get involved. If you did go let us know what you thought! It was great seeing a lot of you out there. See you at the next one, Chula Vista.

Don’t Believe the Rumors Chula Vista

It’s amazing how many rumors I see circulating on social media about this building. I’ve made a few videos about the Chula Vista Development, yet the speculation continues. Some people are calling this the new home of the Chula Vista Police Station, while others believe it will be part of Chula Vista City Hall.

I want to clarify that this building will be the new home of South Bay Community Services (SBCS). They currently have an office located behind this space, and the new one is going to be really nice. Perhaps they should consider putting up a large sign out front to eliminate any confusion and stop the rumors.

Please share this information with anyone you know or in any Facebook group or on Nextdoor. I’ll keep you updated on the opening!

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