Skip to content

Discover What’s New in Downtown Chula Vista: New businesses & exciting events

Downtown Chula Vista at night is the place to be

Downtown Chula Vista is exciting, and if you haven’t visited lately, you’re in for a treat! Over the past few years, this once-quiet area has become a vibrant food, culture, and community hub. Whether you’re a local (like me) or just passing through, you’ll want to explore all the incredible developments. From new restaurants to fun events, there’s something for everyone. Let’s dive into the latest updates along Third Avenue!

Local Businesses Bringing Life Back to Third Avenue

One of the things that make Third Avenue great is all the locally-owned businesses. These small businesses are owned by community members who are passionate about Chula Vista. There’s something for everyone, from the trendy Tender Hooligan to the delicious treats at Mmm Cakes. The beauty of downtown Chula Vista is that most of the businesses are run by locals who grew up here, which makes the experience even more personal and unique.

One of my favorite spots downtown is Mujer Divina Coffee & Burritos. Chef & Owner Priscilla Curiel is so passionate about her business, and it shows. Everyone loves her and supports everything she does. Her burritos are homemade and delicious. She is also working on opening her brand new Tuetano Taqueria right next door very soon. I can’t wait to see it. Be sure to follow her on Instagram for all of the updates and photos of her yummy burritos.

Dominic Li Mandri, district manager for the Downtown Chula Vista Association, commented, “The people opening shops here are from the community. They’ve come back to contribute to the revitalization effort, and that’s what makes this place special.”

Tender Hooligan in Chula Vista
The Tender Hooligan recently opened along Third Avenue, and it is a trendy new spot that you need to check out. Be sure to try their coffee specialties.

A New Italian Gem: Acqua E Farina Trattoria Romana

One of the most significant changes in downtown Chula Vista is the transformation of Farmer’s Table into Acqua E Farina Trattoria Romana. This new Italian restaurant promises to bring a slice of Rome to the South Bay. Opening on September 18, Acqua E Farina will offer fresh pasta, table-side cannoli, and even vintage-style dessert service. It’s like stepping into a trattoria straight from the cobbled streets of Rome! This is going to be a must-visit spot if you’re a fan of Italian cuisine.

Community member Steve Garcia, co-owner of 3 Punk Ales, shared, “It’s amazing to see how downtown is evolving. The addition of new spots like Acqua E Farina really puts Chula Vista on the map.”

Third Avenue’s Craft Beer Scene Is Thriving

Speaking of 3 Punk Ales, the craft beer scene in Chula Vista is exploding! Over the last few years, several breweries have opened up along Third Avenue, creating a fun and laid-back atmosphere for beer lovers. With places like Chula Vista Brewery and Thr3e Punk Ales, there’s no shortage of unique brews. Plus, many of these breweries host live music and food trucks, making it the perfect place to hang out with friends on weekends.

Local brewmaster Steve Garcia mentioned, “We’re proud to be part of the downtown community. People from all over are discovering the charm of this area, and we’re excited to see it grow.”

Exciting Upcoming Events in Chula Vista

The fun doesn’t stop with food and shopping—downtown Chula Vista is also packed with events that bring the community together. Last month was the Lemon Festival, which was bigger and better this year. Third Avenue was alive with so many people all enjoying this fun community event.

You should keep an eye out for the announcement of the 2024 Starlight Parade. Last year’s parade was a huge hit, and I was thrilled the event had returned to the area. I can’t wait to hear the official announcement about this year’s parade, which will be coming very soon.

Explore Downtown Chula Vista Today!

There’s never been a better time to explore downtown Chula Vista. With new restaurants, shops, and events popping up all the time, it’s clear that this community is thriving. Whether you’re a foodie, a craft beer enthusiast, or someone looking to support local businesses, there’s something for everyone. So, what are you waiting for? Get out there, explore, and make the most of all the exciting things happening in downtown Chula Vista!

Remember to follow us on social media or sign up for our newsletter to stay updated on the latest news and events. Let’s keep the community spirit alive!

Amanda Contreras

Amanda, hailing from the vibrant city of Chula Vista, embodies the spirit of adventure and exploration. With a Journalism degree from Southwestern College under her belt, she possesses a keen eye for captivating stories and a deep appreciation for the community that shaped her. Whether she's basking in the lively ambiance of a local dog park or savoring the joyful moments with friends at her go-to happy hour haven, Amanda's zest for life and her city shines through. Her passion for uncovering the hidden gems of Chula Vista and her commitment to storytelling make her a unique voice and a beloved figure among those who know her.