Hey Chula Vista, are you up for a little fun? This Friday, I’m kicking off “Find Me Fridays”—a game that’s part local trivia, part scavenger hunt, and all about celebrating our amazing local businesses. And guess what? There are gift cards up for grabs!
I’ve been lucky enough to visit so many fantastic spots in Chula Vista; some of them have given me gift cards to share with you. I’ve been meaning to do some giveaways, and now’s the time. But instead of just handing them out, let’s make it interesting!
How It Works
Every Friday, I’ll post a photo of a location somewhere in Chula Vista.
Your mission? Guess where it is by leaving a comment on the post.
Some will be easy, some will be tricky—it all depends on the prize for that week!
On Saturday, I’ll close the comments and check all the guesses.
On Sunday, I’ll pick a winner from those who guessed correctly and send them a gift card!
But remember—you have to get the location right to be in the running!
Where to Play Find Me Fridays
This contest is happening exclusively on Instagram (for now). So make sure you’re following me there to join the fun and snag a chance to win a gift card!
[vcex_button url=”https://www.instagram.com/livingchulavista/” title=”Find Me Fridays on Instagram” style=”flat” align=”none” size=”small” target=”self” rel=”none”]Follow Me On Instagram Here[/vcex_button]
Some of the Prizes Up for Grabs
Here’s a sneak peek at some of the gift cards you could win:
And that’s just the beginning! I’m working on getting more prizes from other amazing local businesses. If you own a business in Chula Vista and want to be part of this, check out my sponsorship page to get involved. I’d love to help promote your spot and bring more people through your doors!
I will share photos like this one here. Do you know where this ceiling is in Chula Vista? This is a harder one. It’s the ceiling inside the Silver Dollar Bar on Third Avenue.
Mark Your Calendar!
The fun starts Friday, March 7th, and I’m still deciding on the first giveaway—but trust me, it’ll be a good one!
Got questions? Drop a comment on Facebook or reach out through my contact page. And don’t forget to share this with your friends—because who doesn’t love free stuff?
Let’s make this Find Me Fridays a blast—see you on Instagram! 🎉
Chula Vista is home to a diverse and thriving food scene, offering everything from beloved local taco shops to hidden culinary gems serving international cuisine. Whether you’re a longtime resident or visiting for the first time, this guide on where to eat in Chula Vista will introduce you to some of our favorite places around the community. We also want to remind you that the Taste of Third Ave is coming up on Thursday, March 20th. You can visit so many great bars and restaurants in Downtown Chula Vista. Be sure to get your tickets now.
Get ready to explore the flavors that make this city so special!
Some of Our Favorite Restaurants in Chula Vista
1. Balboa South (Balboa Burgers)
Balboa South is a neighborhood favorite known for its gourmet burgers and craft beer selection. Their signature Balboa Burger features high-quality beef, unique toppings, and a secret sauce that locals rave about. Another standout on the menu is The Centennial Burger ($17.85), stacked with two 1/3 lb beef patties, double American cheese, double smoked bacon, lettuce, tomato, onion, and their homemade zesty aioli, all served on a fresh house roll. This spot is perfect for casual dining with friends, offering a lively yet relaxed atmosphere. Fun fact: The Balboa Bar and Grill near downtown San Diego inspired this South Bay location, bringing its beloved flavors to Chula Vista.
Address: 290 3rd Ave, Chula Vista, CA 91910
Balboa Burgers South in Downtown Chula Vista is one of our favorite spots. It’s a great place to get a burger and a beer. We love the Centennial Burger.
2. Dolche Cafe Mexifood
Dolche Cafe Mexifood is a hidden gem serving up tasty chilaquiles, hearty tortas, and classic breakfast plates. Their homemade sauces and fresh ingredients make every bite worth it.
The chilaquiles were crunchy and flavorful, and the Cafe de Olla hit the spot. The restaurant is welcoming, and the customer service was top-notch—shout out to the owner, Elena, for the great experience.
Perfect for a relaxed weekend brunch or a quick breakfast any day. Be sure to follow them on Instagram for some new updates I’m sure we’ll all love.
Address: 1096 Broadway, Chula Vista, CA 91911
Dolche Cafe Mexifood on Broadway is a fantastic little spot for breakfast and lunch. Be sure to say hi to Elena, the owner. She is super friendly and loves to welcome everyone.
3. Hurricane Grill & Wings
If you love bold flavors, Hurricane Grill & Wings is a must-visit. Their signature wings feature a variety of sauces, from mild to extra spicy. The casual sports-bar atmosphere makes it a go-to spot for game nights and social gatherings. This place has developed a loyal following in Chula Vista, uniting people over delicious, saucy bites and an extensive selection of draft beers. They have also recently added Fat Burger to the menu. If you’re a fan of classic hamburgers from that iconic burger stand, be sure to stop by and give them a try.
Address: 2040 Birch Rd M101, Chula Vista, CA 91915
4. Sura Korean BBQ
For an interactive dining experience, Sura Korean BBQ is a local gem. Guests grill their own premium cuts of meat at the table, paired with traditional Korean banchan (side dishes). Known for its high-quality short ribs and pork belly, this restaurant is a hotspot for group dining. It’s a cornerstone of Chula Vista’s vibrant Korean food scene, offering an authentic taste of Seoul in the South Bay.
Address: 1960 Optima St, Chula Vista, CA 91915
5. Tacos El Gordo
Tacos El Gordo is a legendary taco joint in the South Bay that serves authentic Tijuana-style street tacos in the South Bay. Their adobada tacos (spiced pork) are a fan favorite, marinated to perfection and served with fresh tortillas. This family-run eatery has been a staple for decades and often attracts long lines. A true taste of Baja California, this spot is a must for any taco lover visiting Chula Vista.
Address: 556 Broadway, Chula Vista, CA 91910
6. Romesco Mexiterranean Bistro
A fusion of Mexican and Mediterranean cuisine, Romesco is a dining experience like no other. Their signature paella and Baja-style seafood tacos showcase bold flavors and fresh ingredients. Founded by a family of Baja chefs, Romesco brings Tijuana’s fine dining scene to Chula Vista. The intimate setting and extensive wine list make it perfect for a date night or special occasion.
Address: 4346 Bonita Rd, Bonita, CA 91902
7. La Bella Pizza Garden
A Chula Vista institution since 1955, La Bella Pizza Garden has been serving classic Italian-American comfort food for generations. Their deep-dish and thin-crust pizzas are legendary, made with fresh dough and secret family recipes. This family-owned pizzeria has a nostalgic charm, making it a go-to for gatherings and celebrations. Their arcade area and warm hospitality add to the experience.
Address: 373 3rd Ave, Chula Vista, CA 91910
8. Birrieria Y Menuderia Guadalajara
For a taste of authentic Mexican stews, this spot is unbeatable. Their rich, flavorful birria (slow-cooked beef stew) and hearty menudo (tripe soup) are local favorites, especially for weekend brunch. The restaurant’s homemade tortillas and flavorful broths make it a comforting destination for those craving traditional flavors. A beloved hole-in-the-wall, it’s a favorite among those who know where to find the best homestyle Mexican cuisine.
Address: 396 Broadway, Chula Vista, CA 91910
9. The Empanada Spot
The Empanada Spot is a hidden gem specializing in handmade Argentinian empanadas with a variety of fillings. Their beef and chimichurri empanada is a standout, packed with bold flavors and authentic seasoning. This family-run eatery brings a taste of Argentina to Chula Vista, offering warm hospitality and a unique alternative to traditional fast food.
Address: 1223 3rd Ave C-1, Chula Vista, CA 91911
10. Italianissimo Trattoria
If you’re in the mood for authentic Italian cuisine, Italianissimo Trattoria delivers. Their handmade pasta and fresh seafood dishes transport diners straight to Italy. Known for its cozy ambiance and exceptional service, this family-run trattoria is a favorite for romantic dinners and celebrations. The tiramisu here is legendary, making it the perfect way to end your meal.
Address: 323 3rd Ave, Chula Vista, CA 91910
We love the baked Lasagna at Italianissimo Trattoria in Downtown Chula Vista. It’s one of our go-to spots for a nice dinner with the family or even a romantic date night.
Support Local & Savor Chula Vista’s Best Bites
With several new eateries set to open with the upcoming Gaylord Pacific Resort, now is the perfect time to explore and support Chula Vista’s food scene. If you’re a local restaurant owner, consider working with Sandy Eggo SEO to help your business stand out in a saturated market—search engine optimization is especially powerful for local businesses.
Support local, eat well, and tag us on Instagram: @livingchulavista if you decide to check out any of these spots!
Chula Vista is home to some incredible murals, and the latest addition on Third Avenue brings even more vibrancy to the neighborhood. Located at 460 Third Ave., across from KFC, this new artwork brightens up the small office building that houses cThru Media and State Farm Insurance. The new mural was made possible by a partnership with cThru Media and Southwestern College.
A Community Collaboration
This mural is the result of a collaboration between cThru Media and Southwestern College, designed and painted by local San Diego artist Nick McPherson. The artwork celebrates education, creativity, and community pride—three values deeply connected to Chula Vista.
If you’ve walked or driven down Third Avenue recently, you’ve likely noticed this colorful new addition. On a recent visit to Galu Cafe, I couldn’t help but stop and take a closer look.
You can find this new mural on the side of the State Farm Building. What are some of your favorite murals in Chula Vist? We have some great ones.
Highlighting Southwestern College’s Spirit
The idea for the mural was a joint effort between cThru Media and RobertStemler Media, which manages media buying for Southwestern College. The mural prominently features the college’s Jaguar mascot, painted in the school’s signature burgundy and gold colors. It also includes a QR code, making it easy for passersby to learn more about Southwestern College and its enrollment opportunities.
Southwestern College even created a video about the mural, which you can find on the Southwestern College YouTube Channel.
Supporting Public Art in Chula Vista
This mural marks Southwestern College’s first investment in large-scale public art, and many hope it won’t be the last.
“This mural connects our college’s mission with the community in a meaningful way,” said Jennifer Lewis, dean of the School of Applied Technology and Hospitality Management. “It’s more than just art — it’s a statement about education, opportunity, and our commitment to the region.”
Kevin Kearns, founder and CEO of cThru Media, emphasized the importance of supporting both local education and the community:
“cThru Media has been part of the Chula Vista community for years—we live, work, and build relationships here,” said Kearns. “This mural is a way to support Southwestern College’s mission while adding something visually exciting to the neighborhood.”
A Call for More Murals
Public art projects like this one showcase the strong ties between local businesses and education.
“This project is a great example of what happens when businesses and educators work together,” Kearns said. “The mural is more than just paint on a wall — it represents education, opportunity, and collaboration that benefits everyone in the community.”
This mural is a fantastic addition to Downtown Chula Vista, and hopefully, more businesses will be inspired to commission artwork of their own. Eastlake, for example, could use some colorful murals to brighten up its commercial spaces. I just did a video on the “Cease si Puede” mural on the California Holistic building.
Share Your Favorite Murals
If you’re walking along Third Avenue, be sure to stop by, snap a photo, and admire the newest mural. What’s your favorite mural in Downtown Chula Vista? While the Manny Machado mural on the Vogue Theatre is a fan favorite, many others are worth exploring.
If you take a picture of the new mural, don’t forget to tag Southwestern College and use the hashtag #SWCme to keep the art appreciation going. Let’s continue supporting public art in Chula Vista!
The much-anticipated Gaylord Pacific Resort has announced its grand opening date of Thursday, May 15, 2025. While specific details about the opening ceremony and timing will be released in the future, this date marks a significant milestone for the $1.3 billion development. The resort, which will stand as the largest hotel on the West Coast, represents the sixth property in the prestigious Gaylord Hotels collection under Marriott Bonvoy. I can’t wait to see inside and tour all of the resort. I have only been able to see the front and press images they send out. I really want to see it in person.
Gaylord Pacific Resort Features and Amenities
The Gaylord Pacific Resort & Convention Center contains 1,600 guest rooms, each with views of San Diego Bay and Chula Vista Marina. Twelve dining venues serve international cuisine. The waterpark spans 4.25 acres and features waterslides, a lazy river, wave pools, and private cabanas. Two poolside bars serve refreshments.
The resort provides 477,000 square feet of event space. Groups can use this space for conferences and gatherings of any size. The facility includes a full-service spa, a fitness center, and bicycle rentals for guests.
I can’t wait to see inside the brand-new Gaylord Pacific Resort. Check out the lobby of the resort. It is going to be amazing. Photo Credit: Gaylord Pacific Resort and Convention Center
Economic Impact
The resort is going to create 800 new jobs for residents. This employment opportunity benefits the Chula Vista community. The resort partners with the San Diego Workforce Partnership and local community organizations to support employment initiatives. Don’t forget, the big hiring fair is coming up very soon. To get more details and to apply online, visit their website here.
Chula Vista Bayfront Development
The resort forms part of a larger $1.35 billion Bayfront project. This development covers 535 acres and features 200 acres of parks, open spaces, a shoreline path, and walking trails. The project includes camping areas, retail shops, and restaurants. The development preserves coastal resources through ecological buffers. Public art installations and signage honor the local Kumeyaay heritage.
Business and Leisure Facilities
The convention center features four main ballrooms and three levels of meeting spaces with flexible room arrangements. The resort combines business functions with recreation options. Guests can attend meetings and enjoy resort amenities in one location. This development positions Chula Vista as a significant hospitality destination on the West Coast. The resort adds value to the local economy and creates a new entertainment center in Southern California.
