Lucky Irish Beer Garden is bringing a fresh wave of craft beer to Bonita, California. This marks the first U.S. location for Sergio Tostado Valdez’s growing business, which already operates three pubs in Ensenada and Valle de Guadalupe. The Bonita beer garden will serve a wide range of Mexican craft beers from top breweries like Insurgente in Tijuana, Wendlandt and Cerveza Cardera in Ensenada, and Cervecería de Colima. Guests can also enjoy local San Diego favorites, including Burgeon, Goal, and Fall.
While Valdez’s own brews from Mexico will not yet be included in the beer selection, collaborations with brewers across Mexico are planned. These projects will take place at Citizen Brewers in Mission Gorge and will add a unique twist to the lineup in the future.
A Menu Built for Food Lovers
Lucky Irish Beer Garden is teaming up with Sarah Lopez of Bonita Food Market and chef Jorge Aranda of Monterrey Ribeye Burgers to deliver a standout dining experience. The menu focuses on American-style pub food, including truffle fries and ribeye burgers. In addition, the beer garden will host guest chefs monthly, offering new and exciting dishes regularly. Beer and wine pairings with selections from Valle de Guadalupe will also be available.
“We’re going to have live music, food from Monterrey, and the best beers, from what I know, from California and Mexico,” Sergio Tostado Valdez promises. “Everything’s coming together.”
Though the name might suggest traditional Irish fare, the focus is broader. Guinness is on tap, and St. Patrick’s Day celebrations will feature corned beef sandwiches and Irish stew. However, the overall menu is designed to highlight creativity and variety.
Lucky Irish Beer Garden is having a soft opening on January 17th. Be sure to come out and support them. (Photo Courtesy of Lucky Irish Beer Garden)
Lucky Irish Beer Garden Grand Opening Details
Lucky Irish Beer Garden’s soft opening will be held on Friday, January 17, at 4068 Bonita Road. On weekdays, it will be open from 4 p.m. to 10 p.m., and on weekends, it will be open until midnight. Guests can enjoy live music, delicious food from Monterrey Ribeye Burgers, and an impressive selection of beers from California and Mexico. Be sure to follow them on Instagram here.
What to Expect
Location: 4068 Bonita Road, Bonita, California (Inside Bonita Food Hall)
Hours: 4 p.m. to 10 p.m. weekdays, open until midnight on weekends
Beer Selection: Mexican craft beers and San Diego local favorites
Food Options: American-style pub dishes with rotating guest chef specials
Special Features: Live music, beer and wine pairings, and monthly culinary collaborations
Lucky Irish Beer Garden offers a fresh and exciting destination for craft beer and food lovers in Bonita. Don’t miss this opportunity to experience vibrant flavors and cultures in one welcoming spot.
All right, 2025 is here; it is time to get healthy in Chula Vista. As you contemplate your New Year’s resolutions, you’ll find countless health tips competing for your attention. Yet, the path to genuine wellness doesn’t require extreme measures or unrealistic goals. Instead, it calls for sustainable changes that align with your lifestyle and values. Whether you’re looking to boost your energy, improve your fitness, or enhance your mental clarity, these five evidence-based strategies can transform your health journey. Let’s explore how simple, purposeful adjustments to your daily routine can create lasting positive changes in your life.
Start Your Morning Right
With the new year’s dawn, transforming your morning routine can set the foundation for lasting health improvements. Establishing healthy habits early in the day’ll create a positive effect that influences your choices until bedtime. I know it is hard; we have so many great spots here in Chula Vista that can tempt us to break our goals but stay strong.
Start by prioritizing a nutritious breakfast that includes protein-rich foods like eggs or Greek yogurt. This simple choice helps regulate your appetite and supports portion control throughout the day, making it easier to manage your weight.
Remember to drink a glass of water first thing in the morning—it rehydrates your body after quality sleep and jumpstarts your digestive system.
Incorporate physical activity into your morning schedule, even if it’s just a 10-minute walk or gentle stretching. Morning exercise boosts your metabolism and improves your mood and energy levels.
To maximize these benefits, consider adding mindfulness practices like meditation or gratitude journaling. These activities help reduce stress and enhance mental clarity, setting you up for better decision-making throughout the day.
One of my favorite spots to walk is the Chula Vista Bayfront. You can always find so many people enjoying the morning with a good walk.
Move Your Body Every Day
Have you ever wondered why daily movement is so vital to our well-being? Your body was designed to move, and regular physical activity is essential for maintaining healthy heart function and overall well-being.
The good news is that you don’t need to spend hours at the gym to reap the benefits of exercise. Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate activity or 75 minutes of vigorous exercise weekly to keep your cardiovascular health in top shape. You can break this down into manageable chunks throughout your day.
Try incorporating exercise snacks – short bursts of movement that can effectively lower your blood pressure and blood sugar levels. Take a brisk walk during your lunch break, or do a few wall sits between meetings.
For the new year, consider taking your workouts outdoors. Natural terrain provides an excellent opportunity to enhance your strength and flexibility while improving your cardiovascular fitness. We have so many great spots to take a walk and enjoy the outdoors here in Chula Vista. One of my favorite spots is the Chula Vista Bayfront, but even if you live in Eastlake, you can find several parks and trails to get you moving.
Don’t forget that the Chula Vista Recreation Department also offers all kinds of free or low-cost fitness classes that you can join to help you achieve your goals. Be sure to visit their website here or follow them on Instagram.
Mindful Eating Habits Matter
Just as physical activity energizes your body, mindful eating nourishes it with purpose and attention. When you practice mindful eating, you’ll become more aware of your food choices and how they affect your well-being. This heightened awareness helps prevent overeating and reduces your risk of chronic diseases through better food choices. This means putting that street taco down and picking up salad.
Start by slowing down during meals and paying attention to your food’s texture, taste, and aroma. You’ll notice you’re more in tune with your body’s hunger and fullness signals, which naturally helps regulate your calorie intake.
Include fiber-rich whole foods like fruits, vegetables, and whole grains in your balanced diet to feel satisfied longer and support healthy digestion.
Instead of focusing on restriction, embrace the addition of nutrient-dense foods to your meals. This positive approach helps you develop a healthier relationship with food while ensuring you get essential vitamins and minerals. Make sure you also focus on getting enough protein. This is a key factor in weight loss.
Prioritize Mental Health
Mental health is at the core of overall well-being, working in tandem with physical health to create a balanced, fulfilling life. Research shows that prioritizing mental health can considerably reduce your risk of chronic diseases and support maintaining a healthy weight through better lifestyle choices.
Start by incorporating mindfulness practices into your daily routine. Meditation and gratitude exercises can boost your emotional resilience and help you manage stress effectively. Personally, I love to get outside and watch the sunset. Make the first step to getting away from the screens and unplugging for a bit.
Don’t underestimate the power of social connections—make time for meaningful relationships and regular interactions with friends and family. These connections play an essential role in reducing anxiety and enhancing overall life satisfaction.
Establish a consistent self-care routine, including adequate sleep, regular exercise, and dedicated relaxation time.
Engaging in activities you love, whether pursuing a hobby or volunteering, can considerably improve your mental well-being. Consider setting aside specific times each day for these activities, treating them as non-negotiable appointments with yourself.
Remember that investing in your mental health isn’t a luxury – it’s a fundamental component of achieving and maintaining peak health.
If you’re looking to unplug for a bit then there is no better place than Otay County Park. I did a video on this location; it is my favorite spot in Chula Vista.
Build Strong Social Connections
Strong social bonds act as a powerful medicine for both mind and body, making them essential to your overall health journey. While social media might seem like an easy way to stay connected, nothing replaces genuine face-to-face interactions with loved ones. Research consistently shows that meaningful relationships can boost your immune system, improve heart health, and help you live longer.
Here are practical tips to help you strengthen your social connections: Join local community groups that align with your interests, volunteer for causes you care about, or schedule regular coffee dates with friends. These activities don’t require much money but offer significant returns for your health and wellness. Many of the Chula Vista community centers offer classes you can participate in with like-minded people. Visit the Chula Vista City Website to find all kinds of great community programs to join.
Make it a priority to spend quality time with family members through weekly dinners or regular phone calls. Remember that building strong relationships isn’t just about having fun – it’s a vital investment in your long-term health.
When you surround yourself with supportive people, you’re better equipped to handle life’s challenges and reduce stress. Plus, sharing your health goals with others can provide the accountability and encouragement you need to stay motivated on your wellness journey.
Bonus Tip: Track Your Progress
How can you truly know if you’re progressing without tracking your journey? Tracking your progress toward your healthy new lifestyle will give you valuable insights into what’s working and what isn’t.
Recording your daily activities helps you stay accountable and motivated, whether you’re maintaining a healthy weight, switching to whole foods, or adopting a plant-based diet.
Start by choosing a tracking method that works for you. You might prefer a fitness app, a traditional journal, or a combination of both. Document important metrics like your weight, exercise routines, meal portions, and energy levels.
This data will help you identify patterns and make informed adjustments to your health strategy. Set milestone reminders to celebrate your achievements along the way, as these small victories will fuel your motivation to continue.
Don’t hesitate to share your progress with friends or join a support group. When others witness your commitment to health, they’ll encourage and help you focus on your goals.
Are you ready to be healthy in Chula Vista for 2025
Chula Vista, it’s clear that stepping into the new year with healthy habits doesn’t have to feel overwhelming. By making simple adjustments to your mornings, moving your body daily, practicing mindful eating, prioritizing mental health, and building strong social connections, you can create a balanced and sustainable approach to wellness. Tracking your progress ensures you stay motivated and celebrate each step toward a healthier you. These strategies aren’t just about quick fixes; they’re about building a lifestyle that supports your physical and mental well-being for the long haul.
But let’s not forget one of Chula Vista’s greatest treasures—our incredible parks and recreation centers! Getting outside and exploring nature is one of the best ways to support your health. Whether you take a scenic walk along the bayfront, hike on local trails, or join a community yoga class at a recreation center, these outdoor experiences can elevate your physical and mental wellness.
So, lace up your sneakers, grab some water, and take advantage of our city’s beauty and resources. Let’s make 2025 your healthiest and happiest year yet!
Article shared from the Towne Local Bonita
Alicia Ontiveros, the newly crowned Miss Bonita, is someone who truly embraces stepping out of her comfort zone. For example, when Alicia first decided to apply for the Miss Bonita Pageant, she had never competed in a pageant before, but she took the leap, eager to grow and make a difference. She doesn’t just wear a crown; she wears her love for her community on her sleeve. Whether organizing charity events, volunteering at local shelters, or leading community clean-up initiatives, Alicia is always finding ways to make a positive impact. At 26, Alicia blends her natural beauty with a genuine personality, a friendly smile, and an inspiring passion for trying new things. She shows us all the value of embracing challenges, whether on a softball field or in a community setting. Let’s get to know the heart behind the crown.
Growing Up Bonita: A Life Rooted in Tradition
Alicia is Bonita through and through. Raised in this close-knit community, she attended Allen Elementary, Bonita Middle School, and Bonita Vista High School. For Alicia, Bonita is more than a place—it’s a tradition. Growing up with a yard big enough for animals, her family cultivated a little slice of ranch life, complete with horses, chickens, sheep, goats, and a pig. Caring for these animals taught Alicia responsibility, patience, and a deep appreciation for nature—values that continue to shape her commitment to community and service today. This connection to nature has always been a meaningful part of Alicia’s upbringing.
Alicia also has a deep appreciation for her cultural and spiritual roots. Her grandparents started a Latino worship group in the 1970s, and today, Alicia continues their legacy by volunteering at the same church. Faith plays a significant role in her life, and she’s determined to keep her community’s culture alive and thriving for the next generation. Alicia regularly leads youth group activities and helps organize community events at her church, continuing the legacy her grandparents started.
Miss Chula Vista, Isabel Caballero and Miss Bonita Alicia Ontiveros in Downtown Chula Vista.
From Softball Fields to the Big Leagues
If you’re ever looking for Alicia Ontiveros in her youth, you’d have found her on the softball field. Softball wasn’t just a hobby—it was her passion. Alicia dedicated herself to playing at Bonita Valley as a child and then as a utility player for Bonita Vista High School. She even played second base while in college in Michigan and still finds time to play in a local league today.
This love for the game didn’t stop at college. After returning to Bonita with a degree in Biology, Alicia took a swing at something new. She applied to be a ball girl for the San Diego Padres in 2021. Though she wasn’t selected, it sparked a desire to work in Major League Baseball. This experience taught her resilience and reinforced her belief in pursuing her passions despite setbacks. It made her more determined to find her place in her favorite sport. The following year, she applied for a ticketing agent role with the Padres—and not only got the job, but also landed a position as a ticketing supervisor. Alicia has held that role for two years now, living her dream of working in the sport she loves.
The Courage to Compete: Becoming Miss Bonita
Alicia wasn’t content with just her dream job and community activities. Earlier this year, she decided to enter the Miss Bonita Pageant—despite never competing in a pageant before. Alicia wanted to use this platform to advocate for mental health awareness and to inspire others by showing that growth happens when you challenge yourself. It was another chance to push herself beyond her comfort zone and connect with her community. With a spirit of “taking opportunities as they come,” Alicia went through the application process, met with the judges, and before long, she was named the new Miss Bonita. Her journey is a testament to courage and the willingness to grow.
A Heart for Mental Health and Community
Beneath the crown, Alicia’s heart beats for her community—particularly for those struggling with mental health. During her time in college, she experienced anxiety and depression, especially during the isolation of COVID-19. Alicia found solace in staying active, maintaining her connection with friends through virtual calls, and focusing on her faith, which helped her overcome these challenges. She knows firsthand how challenging it can be for young people to talk about mental health struggles, let alone seek help. This year, as Miss Bonita, Alicia Ontiveros is committed to raising awareness about mental health. She believes even simple gestures—like asking someone how they’re doing—can make a big difference. As the holidays approach, she wants to be a beacon of support and connection, hoping to brighten someone’s day with her warm and caring presence.
Join Alicia Ontiveros on Her Journey
Alicia Ontiveros is more than Miss Bonita; she symbolizes community, courage, and compassion. Whether encouraging mental health awareness, sharing her love for Bonita, or engaging with others at local events, Alicia is ready to make her mark. If you want to get involved, keep an eye out for Alicia at community gatherings—she’s always happy to meet new faces, share stories, and snap a picture. You can also follow her journey on Instagram for the latest updates and behind-the-scenes moments!
If you’re interested in learning more about the Miss Bonita Pageant or getting involved in community initiatives, stay tuned for updates here on our community website!
We also did a story on Miss Chula Vista Isabel Caballero. Thank you to both of these ladies for allowing us to highlight them. For more articles on Bonita be sure to visit The Towne Local Bonita.
Article shared from the Towne Local Bonita
With grace and confidence, Isabel Caballero has stepped into the spotlight as Miss Chula Vista. A student at SDSU with big dreams, Isabel embodies what it means to be a community leader and role model. Her heart, resilience, and passion for change truly make her shine. Let’s get to know the story behind our very own Miss Chula Vista, Isabel Caballero.
Growing Up in Chula Vista
Isabel grew up right here in Chula Vista, the child of two educators who instilled in her a love of learning and community involvement. She attended CVLCC Middle School and Bonita Vista High School. During her time there, she was active in a variety of clubs. She participated in the award-winning Sound Unlimited, ASB, Junior Optimists, and served as President of the Robotics Club. One of her favorite memories was participating in the Bonita Library summer reading program, which sparked her early love for knowledge.
But Isabel’s journey hasn’t always been easy. When the COVID-19 pandemic struck during her senior year, she experienced the challenges of missing out on key moments—an experience shared by many. Despite the difficulties, she emerged stronger, using those hardships to shape her understanding of mental health. Isabel gained insights into the importance of accessible mental health resources, the impact of isolation on emotional well-being, and the need for open conversations about depression, especially among young people. Isabel is vocal about the need for better support systems for young people struggling with depression, especially during times of crisis.
Miss Chula Vista, Isabel Caballero and Miss Bonita Alicia Ontiveros in Downtown Chula Vista.
Embracing Her Identity
Middle school was a time of introspection for Isabel, where she began to realize her differences, such as her emerging understanding of her sexual orientation, and what they meant for her identity. She faced the challenge of coming out as queer in a community that didn’t always understand her. She is proud of her identity and advocates for others to listen without judgment. She believes in creating spaces where people can truly feel heard and respected. Isabel’s preferred pronouns are both “she” and “they,” and she chooses the term Latinx as a gender-neutral identifier, celebrating her heritage in an inclusive way.
Why She Became Miss Chula Vista 2024
For Isabel, running for Miss Chula Vista wasn’t just about wearing a crown. It was about representing her beloved hometown, giving back, and using her platform to make a difference. Inspired by former titleholders, she applied, showcasing her leadership skills, academic accomplishments, and a platform dedicated to helping others. After an interview process that tested her poise and dedication, she received the news during a family dinner—she was the new Miss Chula Vista. Now, Isabel looks forward to using her position to be a source of comfort and strength for other young people who may be struggling with their identities.
Isabel Caballero’s Vision for the Future
Isabel isn’t stopping here. Her long-term goal is to earn a Ph.D. in psychology, with a focus on researching substance abuse and its effects on prenatal development. She’s not just interested in lab work—Isabel wants to take her knowledge into schools and communities, helping to educate young people about the dangers of drug use. She’s passionate about de-normalizing the use of cannabis among teenagers and highlighting the real risks, including the potential hazards of laced substances, such as cannabis being mixed with fentanyl or other harmful drugs, which can lead to severe health consequences or even fatalities.
A Bright Future for Chula Vista
Isabel’s enthusiasm, intelligence, and compassion make her an incredible role model. She is proud to call Chula Vista home and is committed to making it a better place for everyone. Whether she’s wearing her crown at public events or speaking out on important issues like mental health awareness and LGBTQ+ rights, Isabel Caballero is ready to make an impact. Thank you, Isabel, for your courage, vision, and dedication to our community.
Do You Want To Get Involved?
If Isabel’s story inspires you and want to be a part of the next Miss Chula Vista pageant, or if you’d like to support her platform, we’d love to hear from you. Let’s work together to build a community that celebrates everyone’s unique journey. For more updates and to see Isabel Caballero in action, follow her on Instagram for her latest photos and inspiring moments.
Don’t Forget We Also Highlighted Miss Bonita Alicia Ontiveros
The newly crowned Miss Bonita, Alicia Ontiveros, embodies courage, compassion, and community spirit. Raised in Bonita, Alicia’s life has been rooted in tradition, faith, and a love for giving back. From playing softball to leading church activities and now working for the San Diego Padres, her journey is full of resilience and passion. As Miss Bonita, Alicia is dedicated to advocating for mental health awareness and inspiring her community to step out of their comfort zones. Follow Alicia on Instagram to join her inspiring journey and stay connected with her efforts in the community!
For more articles on Bonita be sure to visit The Towne Local Bonita.
