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Exciting New Korean BBQ Spot Coming to Chula Vista: Sura Korean BBQ

Amanda Contreras
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Exciting New Korean BBQ Spot Coming to Chula Vista: Sura Korean BBQ

Hey, Chula Vista! If you’re as passionate about discovering new dining experiences as I am, you’ve probably heard of Common Theory Public House and Realm of the 52 Remedies. Joon Lee and Cris Liang, the dynamic duo behind these popular spots, are always ahead of the curve. They opened Common Theory Public House in 2014, way before gastropubs were the thing, and Realm of the 52 Remedies in 2018, setting a new standard for speakeasies with its futuristic vibe. Get ready for their next project: Sura Korean BBQ.

The New Kid on the Block: Common Theory at Otay Ranch

Fast-forward to this year and Lee and Liang have brought Common Theory to the Mix at Millenia in Otay Ranch, even before the complex is fully built! But that’s not all—they’re about to launch something special next door.

Sura Korean BBQ: A Dream Realized

At 1960 Optima Street in Chula Vista, Joon Lee, Cris Liang, and Andy Ahn are opening Sura Korean BBQ by the end of June. This 4,500-square-foot restaurant will have 30 tables equipped with gas grills and can seat around 140-150 guests. Lee, who hails from South Korea and later moved to Chula Vista for high school, has been dreaming of opening a Korean BBQ joint for over a decade. Diners will be able to select from three different tiers of its all-you-can-eat experience, priced from $36.99 to $56.99 per person.

The Ultimate Korean BBQ Experience

Sura Korean BBQ promises to be an all-you-can-eat paradise with three pricing tiers: classic, premium, and Sura. Prime options will feature ribeye and soy-marinated beef short ribs. Guests can order from servers or visit the fresh meat bar to pick up their items and bring them back to the table to grill.

“We’re going to have some of the most traditional Korean foods,” Lee says. Expect delicious dishes like japchae, fried chicken, spicy rice cakes, and sweet-and-sour pork.

Sura Korean BBQ in Chula Vista
The new Sura Korean BBQ will be a foodie’s paradise with so many options. Photo Credit: James Tran

A Fusion of Flavors for the Local Community

Understanding the diverse tastes of Chula Vista’s community, Sura will also offer familiar Mexican and Filipino bites like pancit, chicken adobo, and carne asada. Lee adds, “We’re going to have tortillas, pico de gallo, and salsas ready. People can grill their carne asada at their tables and make tacos for themselves.”

I can’t wait to try their carne asada; this is going to be a super cool twist.

Drinks and Desserts Galore

And don’t worry about the drinks! Sura will serve self-serve ice cream, craft beer, wine, and soju spirits. “You can’t go to Korean BBQ without Korean soju,” Lee jokes.

Looking Forward to the Future

While Common Theory’s Chula Vista location is experiencing a slow start, Lee remains optimistic. “This area is still expanding,” he explains. With the SDSU campus being built across the street from Sura, Lee sees immense growth potential. “It’s going to be great,” he assures.

So, mark your calendars and prepare to grill some delicious meats at Sura Korean BBQ! This spot is set to become a new favorite for locals and BBQ lovers alike. Stay tuned for more updates, and happy eating!

Are you looking forward to all the new Korean BBQ spots coming soon to the Chula Vista area?

The history of the Chula Vista Southbay YMCA

Chula Vista Blog
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The history of the Chula Vista Southbay YMCA

The Chula Vista Southbay YMCA, located at 50 Fourth Avenue in the heart of Chula Vista, is a testament to the enduring power of community, leadership, and personal development. This article explores the rich history and transformative journey of this YMCA branch, from its early beginnings to its current role as a community pillar. We will also touch on the current situation of the building now.

Early Beginnings (1922-1942)

The South Bay Family “Y” traces its origins to 1922, when the San Diego County YMCA was established. A pivotal moment in its history was the merger of the city and county “Y”s in 1957-1958, which focused on developing branch YMCAs in the South Bay, Heartland, and North County areas. During this formative period, Onis Leonard, County “Y” Secretary from 1938-1942, played a crucial role in integrating the YMCA into local schools by establishing Hi-Y and Jr. High Y Clubs. His efforts were highlighted by memorable events such as “Y” Day in Hollywood and the Junior High School Leaders Training Conference, setting a precedent for the YMCA’s community engagement.

Expansion and Community Involvement (1942-1958)

Under Frank Wood’s stewardship, the YMCA’s reach and impact in Chula Vista deepened. The establishment of the Chula Vista Y’s Men’s Club in 1947, which included veterans & locals, was aligned with the YMCA’s mission. Leaders like Steve Gassaway were instrumental in rallying community support for a local YMCA branch, culminating in the establishment of the South Bay Branch YMCA in 1960.

Establishment and Growth of the South Bay Branch (1958-1967)

The early years of the Chula Vista Southbay YMCA Branch were marked by mobility, from its first office above Arnold’s Garage to various locations before settling at 590 Third Avenue. Acquiring a bus from the South Bay Elementary School District opened new avenues for adventure and outreach, including the notable rafting expeditions led by Ellis Lymons. The quest for a permanent location culminated in securing a lease for General Roca Park, leading to the inauguration of the new facility in 1965. Key individuals, including Mel Cowherd and Jerry Nutter, made this achievement possible through foresight and strategic planning.

Programmatic Innovations and Community Services (1967-1982)

The late 1960s and 1970s were a period of prolific program development at the South Bay YMCA. The daycare program, initiated in 1967 under Sue Miller’s guidance, and the expansive Caravans program epitomized the YMCA’s commitment to providing educational and recreational experiences for youth. Signature programs such as Indian Guides fostered unique bonds between fathers and sons, reinforcing family involvement in the YMCA’s activities.

Modern Developments and Achievements (1982-2018)

The leadership transition in 1982 saw Kathleen Mays become the first woman to serve as executive director. The transition marked a new era of fiscal and programmatic innovation. The introduction of the YMCA Basketball Association League, along with other sports and educational programs, reflected the YMCA’s adaptability and responsiveness to community needs. Through these initiatives, the Chula Vista South Bay YMCA has continued to reinforce its mission of promoting health, well-being, and a sense of community, even after shutting down in 2018.

Casa Casillas
Casa Casillas has taken over the previous YMCA location and converted it into an artist studio. It is named after Mary Casillas Sala’s mother, Paula Casillas.

Casa Casillas, Chula Vista’s new Cultural Arts Center (2025 to present)

Casa Casillas, Chula Vista’s new cultural arts center at 50 4th Avenue, has officially opened in the former YMCA building. The center offers an artist residency program that provides local creators with studio space and a $1,000 monthly stipend for a six-month period. The first two resident artists, German Rojas and Melissa “Melicha” Salgado, are already at work, bringing vibrant and culturally inspired art to the community. Named after former Mayor Mary Casillas Salas’s mother, Paula Casillas, the center features public art displays, workshops, and a space for connecting with local artists.

To learn more, visit the Casa Casillas website here.

SBCS Celebrates Major Milestone with their new office building

Chula Vista Blog
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SBCS Celebrates Major Milestone with their new office building

SBCS, formerly South Bay Community Services, marked a significant milestone on July 30 with a “topping off” ceremony for its new 61,000-square-foot facility. This event celebrated the completion of the steel framework, with the final beam being signed by attendees before being placed. The new Center, expected to be completed by May 2025, is being constructed by San Diego General Contractor Dempsey Construction and designed by Tucker Sadler Architects.

Key Takeaways

  • The SBCS Community Impact Center will serve over 10,000 additional families annually, focusing on empowerment and long-term stability.
  • The 61,000-square-foot facility will provide comprehensive support services for domestic violence, trauma, food insecurity, and housing instability.
  • Key features include a community engagement center, family visitation center, counseling offices, and training rooms to enhance service accessibility.
  • The project is primarily funded through agency reserves and private contributions, aiming to raise $9 to $10 million for completion.
  • Individuals and organizations can get involved through donations, sponsorships, fundraising events, and volunteering opportunities.

A lot of you had asked about this building and what it was going to be. I created a short video a few weeks back about the SBCS project. I will be creating more videos on the project so stay tuned.

Generous Support from Cox Communications

During the ceremony, Cox Communications presented SBCS with a $100,000 grant from the James M. Cox Foundation. This grant will support the new community engagement center, offering critical services for families and individuals in crisis, such as domestic violence and trauma support, food and housing insecurity assistance, employment help, and educational resources.

A Return to SBCS Roots

Located at 318 Fourth Ave., where SBCS first began over 50 years ago, the new facility will serve as the central hub for all SBCS services. The Center for Impact will allow SBCS to expand its outreach, providing essential services to over 10,000 additional families, children, and youth annually.

Chula Vista Mayor John McCann expressed his support, stating, “SBCS’s new Center for Impact is a testament to our community’s dedication to supporting one another. We are proud to see this project well on its way to completion and look forward to the tremendous benefits it will bring to the South Bay’s residents.”

Expanding Services Across the County

SBCS President and CEO Kathryn Lembo highlighted the organization’s growth beyond South Bay, expanding countywide due to their effective work and strong funding partnerships. “We partner with youth agencies in different parts of the county to ensure families have access to a full range of services,” Lembo said.

The new building, purchased at the start of the COVID-19 pandemic, will consolidate services currently spread across five aging buildings in South County. “We have staff working out of garages right now,” Lembo noted. “This new central hub will allow us to serve more people and provide a welcoming space for residents to receive support and connect meaningfully with one another.”

SBCS new office building in Chula Vista
The new office building will be super nice. The 61,000-square-foot facility will provide comprehensive support services for domestic violence, trauma, food insecurity, and housing instability. (SBCS File Photo)

Community Engagement and Wellness Center

The new facility’s ground floor will house a community engagement and wellness center and a family visitation center. The top three floors will feature meeting spaces, counseling offices, children’s mental health services, and other essential services SBCS provides.

“We’re proud of how beautiful and purposeful this building will be,” Lembo said. “It will increase our visibility among families in crisis and provide a much-needed space for all our operations.”

Funding and Future Goals

The center’s construction cost is $26 million, and the total cost, including permits, fees, and legal costs, is $34 million. Lembo emphasized that no government money is being used for this project. Instead, funding comes from new market tax credits, agency reserves, and a $9 million construction loan.

“We’ve received significant donations, including $500,000 from David and Annie Malcolm and $2 million from the Price Foundation,” Lembo shared. With about $2.4 million raised so far, SBCS continues to seek support for its capital campaign.

Chanelle Hawken, Vice President of Government and Public Affairs for Cox Communications, stated, “Cox has been a proud supporter of SBCS for over 15 years. This generous $100,000 grant from the James M. Cox Foundation will help SBCS reach even more families and individuals who need their services.”

To learn more or get involved in the SBCS capital campaign, visit their website at sbcssandiego.org.

Tender Hooligan in Downtown Chula Vista will have a soft opening August 11th

Kurt Bunch
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Tender Hooligan in Downtown Chula Vista will have a soft opening August 11th

A few weeks ago, I shared a video about the upcoming Tender Hooligan in Downtown Chula Vista. If you missed it, you can catch it on my YouTube channel. I was intrigued when I first noticed this business setting up shop at 221 Third Avenue, Suite 101, only to see it go quiet for a while. Even their Instagram account went dark, wondering if they would open. But good news! The project is back on track and will open soon. Many of you have been curious about what Tender Hooligan is all about, and today, I have some exciting updates, including details about their recent soft opening.

A New Cultural Hub

Tender Hooligan is the brainchild of Henio Hernandez and Mario Lucio, two friends with a deep passion for music. Located on Third Avenue, this space aims to create a community hub where people can enjoy music, design, and culture. According to Mara Lucio, the VP, Co-Creative Director, and Operations Director, “Tender Hooligan is more than just a place to buy records or enjoy a drink—it’s a space that feels both new and nostalgic, blending comfort with style.”

Tender Hooligan will offer A Unique Atmosphere

The venue offers an inviting atmosphere where music lovers of all ages can dive into the world of vinyl, sip on artisanal beverages, and relax in a beautifully designed space. The design is inspired by Finnish-American architect Eero Saarinen, known for his clean lines and functional beauty, combined with Japanese design elements. Drawing from Euro-mod culture, post-punk fashion, and Japanese aesthetics, Tender Hooligan promises a visually stunning and immersive experience featuring local and international DJs.

Bringing the Community Together

Henio Hernandez, President, Co-Creative Director, and IT Manager, shared the inspiration behind Tender Hooligan: “As millennials raising our families, we noticed a lack of venues that catered to all ages. Growing up in Chula Vista in the ’90s, we loved the all-ages music venues and record stores. We wanted to bring that spirit back to our neighborhood and create a space where everyone can come together.”

Tender Hooligan in Downtown Chula Vista
The Tender Hooligan in Downtown Chula Vista will be coming soon; we can’t wait to see it. This is a very unique business from the others we have seen open along Third Avenue.

We can’t wait to see this unique business open in Chula Vista

The café will offer a variety of non-alcoholic beverages, unique sake cocktails, and a curated selection of craft beers. The food menu will feature a fusion of Mediterranean and Japanese flavors, providing an unconventional twist on the traditional Izakaya experience.

Tender Hooligan will open softly on Sunday, August 11th, at 221 Third Avenue, Suite 101. For more details, visit their Instagram account. Their website is still under construction. Take advantage of this exciting addition to our community!

Do you have a new business or eatery opening soon? Be sure to let us know so we can give you some free community promotions. Please use our contact form here.

We look forward to spreading the good news.

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