Early Morning Vibes at Chula Vista’s J St. Marina: Drumming Along the Bay
Hey, Chula Vista friends! If you’re like me, the best way to start a weekend morning is with a peaceful walk along the bay, soaking in the fresh air and enjoying the little surprises our community offers. This past weekend, I came across a local gem that made me pause and smile: Jim, a spirited drummer, playing his full drum kit right along the water! Yes, you read that right—he brings out his full setup two to three times a week, creating his own little rhythm section for anyone passing by.
Jim shared that he lives in a nearby retirement home where drumming isn’t precisely “apartment-friendly.” So, he brings his talent to the marina instead, filling the air with beats that make you want to tap your toes and just feel grateful for these authentic community moments. And let me tell you—Jim’s got some serious drum skills! It’s much better than anything I could dream up, that’s for sure. These small, unique moments make our community so special, where spontaneity meets talent in the most unexpected places.
Here’s the bittersweet part: with the big plans underway for the Gaylord Pacific Resort & Convention Center set to open next year, there’s a good chance the J St. Marina will look and feel different. While the redesign will bring fresh amenities and a new look, it’s hard not to wonder if we’ll lose some of these one-of-a-kind experiences that make this place feel like home.
If you haven’t checked out the plans yet, take a peek at our recent article. The map gives you an entire look at what’s in store for this beloved park. As exciting as the changes are, let’s hold onto these memories and appreciate the unique community moments we have right now. After all, the heart and soul of Chula Vista makes this spot truly ours!
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What’s up, Chula Vista! Today, we’re hanging out at El Viejon Birria & Seafood on Bonita Road! It’s a cozy spot, tucked right across from Better Buzz, and let me tell you, the vibe inside is fantastic. There’s plenty of seating, so whether you’re here solo or with a crew, you’re all set!
Let’s dive into the good stuff. First up, I tried the barrio taco, and wow — those corn tortillas hit the spot! I’m not sure if they make them in-house, but they’re delicious! Then came the fish taco — battered, fried, and perfectly crispy. And the star of the show? The Mixta Tostadas! Loaded with shrimp, octopus, tuna, scallops, and more. These tostadas are bursting with flavor, and they definitely didn’t hold back on the toppings.
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Looking for your next foodie adventure in Bonita, California? Let me introduce you to El Viejon Birria and Seafood—a brand-new spot that combines the best of both worlds: mariscos and birria. Birria is known for its rich, slow-cooked meat and flavorful broth, while mariscos bring the freshness of the ocean to your plate, making this a perfect destination for diverse palates. Located in the old Jaliscos Restaurant across from Better Buzz, it’s hard to drive by without being tempted to pop in. Last weekend, I finally did, and let me tell you, it’s definitely worth the stop! Plus, I’ll be uploading a video review soon to my YouTube channel, so stay tuned!
A Match Made in Food Heaven: Birria Meets Mariscos
El Viejon Birria and Seafood serves up a mix of birria and seafood delights that cater to all food lovers. My wife isn’t huge on seafood, so she went straight for the birria—and that was a good choice! The birria broth and tacos made our list of the top five in Chula Vista, and their Birria Ramen? It’s a hearty dish that can easily serves two to three people. We’re all about those birria queso tacos, and El Viejon didn’t disappoint.
For the seafood lovers, their shrimp and octopus botana was a hit, feeding up to four people—a generous platter that delivered on both flavor and freshness. The Taco de Pulpo (octopus) enchilado was cooked to perfection, and the marlin and shrimp enchilado taco added a delicious kick.
Check out their reviews on Yelp and see what others are saying about El Viejon Birria and Seafood in Bonita California.
Smoked Tuna Tacos: A Must-Try!
Now, let’s talk about the star of the show—the Smoked Tuna Taco. Not every day, a taco makes you blush, but this one did just that. It’s hands-down one of the best tacos I’ve ever had, whether in San Diego or across the border in Mexico. My wife and I find ourselves craving it constantly, and we’re not alone—our whole family keeps coming back for more. Oceanos, also located in Bonita, used to have a smoked tuna taco that was really good, but sadly they removed it from their menu. So, this is now going to be my go-to spot.
I really enjoyed the birria tacos. If you plan on ordering them, be sure to get here early. They do sell out fast.
What We Ordered and Loved at El Viejon Birria and Seafood
We sampled a variety of tacos, including the gobernador (shrimp and cheese), spicy octopus, breaded shrimp, and breaded fish tacos. The breaded shrimp was the favorite, with plump, flavorful shrimp and just the right crunch. Interestingly, all their tacos—not just the fried ones—come topped with plenty of cabbage, sauces, and extras, making every bite satisfying.
We also tried the Birria Ramen, which was rich and hearty, though we wish the noodles had kept more of their bite. To enhance your experience, consider asking them to package the noodles separately if you’re ordering takeout, or enjoy it fresh at the restaurant for the ideal texture. We’d recommend eating it fresh at the restaurant for the best texture for takeout. The Birria Quesadilla was another standout—no noodle issues here, just pure, delicious birria flavor in a crispy, cheesy shell.
The Vibe and What to Expect
El Viejon has a casual yet charming vibe, with artificial plant walls, neon signs, and a spacious seating area that’s perfect for a group outing. The customer service is fantastic—attentive, friendly, and fast. For example, our server went out of their way to recommend dishes based on our preferences. It even brought us extra lime wedges without us having to ask, which made our experience feel truly personalized. It’s clear they put a lot of heart into both their food and their hospitality. Plus, the restaurant is clean, well-kept, and full of Mexican flair with beautiful murals of iconic figures.
A couple of quick tips: If you’re craving birria, get there early—they can sell out by late afternoon, and the next batch might take a while. Parking is minimal in front but there’s more in the adjacent lot by the liquor store. And while they don’t have a salsa bar yet, they do provide a couple of squeeze bottles and lime wedges for that extra zing.
If you’re looking for a new place to visit, make sure you visit El Viejon. It is located along Bonita Rd.
Why You Should Stop By
El Viejon Birria and Seafood is a welcome addition to the Bonita food scene. While their tacos are great, it’s really the birria that steals the show. If you’re used to heading straight to TJ Oyster Bar when you’re in the area, I’d say make a detour and give El Viejon a try. Who knows—you might find yourself coming back repeatedly, just like my family and I have.
Share Your Experience!
Have you tried El Viejon Birria and Seafood yet? I’d love to hear your thoughts! What was your favorite dish? Drop a comment below, and let’s talk about all things, birria and mariscos!
Also, make sure to follow them on Instagram to catch their latest dishes and special offers. You won’t want to miss out on the delicious updates!
The holiday season is just around the corner, and what better way to kick it off than with the dazzling Chula Vista Christmas Tree Lighting? This special event is a beloved tradition that brings the community together in the heart of Downtown Chula Vista. Gather your loved ones and head to Memorial Park on Sunday, December 1st, at 5:30 pm, for an evening filled with twinkling lights, holiday cheer, and heartwarming memories.
Typically, the tree lighting is part of the Chula Vista Starlight Parade. However, this year, the parade is scheduled for December 14th, which is well into the month. We can’t leave the Christmas tree dark for almost half of December, so lighting it on December 1st is the best option. Plus, it gives those who may not be close to the tree during the parade a chance to be part of the festivities and enjoy the magic up close.
A Festive Tradition at Memorial Park
The Chula Vista Tree Lighting Ceremony has been a hallmark of the holiday season for years. I remember when it used to be a live tree right here in Memorial Park. My parents would always bring my brother and me to the small tree-lighting ceremony, and it was such a special moment for our family. Now, as an adult, I make sure to bring my daughters every year so they can experience that same magic.
Located in Memorial Park on Third Avenue, this festive event symbolizes the start of all things merry and bright in our community. With the City of Chula Vista’s support, this year’s ceremony promises to be even more magical, complete with speeches from city officials and community leaders. Their words of welcome will remind us all of what makes Chula Vista so unique—a place where community and joy are celebrated side by side.
I remember this as a child. The city of Chula Vista would decorate the whole corner with festive decor, including a massive tree that was lit up. This photo was from 2006.
Chula Vista Christmas Tree Lighting Highlights
The main attraction will be the lighting of the Christmas tree. Watching the tree come to life with twinkling lights is a wonderful moment that draws families from all over the area. But the fun doesn’t stop there! The Downtown Chula Vista Farmers Market will be open with extended hours, offering festive drinks, snacks, and holiday shopping opportunities. It’s a chance to pick up some gifts while enjoying the holiday atmosphere.
Carolers will also be present, filling the air with classic holiday tunes to set the mood just right. Imagine the sweet sounds of the season echoing through the park while you sip hot cocoa and browse the farmers market—it’s the kind of magical experience that turns an ordinary evening into a cherished holiday memory.
A Season of Community Celebration
The tree-lighting ceremony isn’t just a standalone event; it’s the beginning of a whole season of festivities in Downtown Chula Vista. The ceremony will kick off several other community events, including the City of Chula Vista’s Starlight Parade & Festival on Saturday, December 14th. These events embody the spirit of the season, bringing people together to share in the joy and warmth that make the holidays truly special.
Join the Fun and Spread the Cheer!
The Chula Vista Tree Lighting Ceremony is more than just an event; it celebrates community spirit, holiday cheer, and the joy of being together. So mark your calendars, grab your friends and family, and come out to Memorial Park on December 1st at 3 pm. Let’s light up the night and kick off the holiday season in style!
Have you attended the tree lighting in the past? We’d love to hear your favorite moments! Share your experiences in the comments below and tell us what you’re most excited about this year. And don’t forget to check out the rest of our holiday events—there’s so much more magic to come in Downtown Chula Vista!
