Gaylord Pacific Resort Brings 10+ New Dining Destinations to Chula Vista’s Waterfront
Chula Vista’s waterfront is about to become our city’s premier culinary hotspot with the opening of Gaylord Pacific Resort & Convention Center in early 2025. Located just seven miles from downtown San Diego, this expansive resort will feature more than 10 distinct restaurants that promise to elevate the local dining scene, all while offering breathtaking views of San Diego Bay and the Chula Vista Marina.
We’re just 15 days away from the grand opening of the Gaylord Pacific Resort in Chula Vista! The resort will be open for visitors from May 16th to May 18th, and it’s going to be an amazing experience. One topic we’ve received many questions about is the dining options available at the resort. Let’s explore that!
A Culinary Revolution on Our Waterfront
Whether you’re a Chula Vista resident looking for new dining options or planning a visit to the area, these restaurants will be open to both resort guests and the public, creating new gathering spaces for our community to enjoy.
Old Hickory Steakhouse: A Premium Dining Experience
The resort’s flagship restaurant will deliver an upscale yet approachable dining experience featuring premium beef cuts and fresh seafood. Their signature Surf & Turf selections will be paired with an impressive California-centric wine list showcasing vintages from Paso Robles to Baja. Perfect for special occasions or an elevated night out, Old Hickory will likely become Chula Vista’s premier steakhouse destination.
Trēō Kitchen + Bar: Farm-to-Table California Cuisine
This versatile restaurant will spotlight seasonal ingredients sourced from local farmers and fishermen. With breakfast, lunch, and dinner service available daily, Trēō will offer a range of options, from fresh morning pastries to sophisticated evening entrées featuring the region’s finest bounty. The restaurant’s design will showcase panoramic bay views, making it an instant favorite for both everyday dining and special occasions.
Craft Beverages and Sports Entertainment
Sports enthusiasts will find their home at Growlers Sports Bar & Taproom, where a rotating selection of San Diego craft beers and hearty bar fare can be enjoyed while watching games on an impressive 75-foot screen – the largest sports viewing screen in South Bay. This is one I can not wait for. I have already seen some videos of the bar area and it looks incredible. It reminds me of a sports bar in Las Vegas.
The resort’s central atrium will feature Oeste Bar, where skilled mixologists will blend traditional techniques with Mexican heritage, offering premium tequilas and mezcals in a vibrant setting. Near the main entrance, Mariner’s Bar will welcome visitors with a cozy fireplace and coastal-inspired cocktails that capture California’s relaxed sophistication.
Quick and Casual Options for Every Taste
For those seeking a quick bite, PCH Café & Market will offer specialty coffee, fresh pastries, and grab-and-go meals perfect for busy mornings or midday breaks. Reservations won’t be required for this casual spot.
Sushi aficionados should make plans to visit Taiyō, where fresh, sustainable seafood will be transformed into creative rolls and Japanese-inspired dishes, available for both dine-in and takeaway options.
Poolside Retreats with Distinct Flavors
The Gaylord Pacific Resort’s outdoor spaces will feature two specialized dining venues. Shallow End Grill will serve family-friendly boardwalk classics and healthier alternatives near the main pool. Expect fish tacos, gourmet burgers, and refreshing salads perfect for a day of swimming.
For adults seeking a more sophisticated poolside experience, Sunny’s will offer Baja-inspired dishes and handcrafted tropical cocktails in an atmosphere that feels like a private beach club. While these venues will primarily serve resort guests, special dining packages for locals are expected to be announced closer to opening.
More Than Meals: Culinary Experiences
What distinguishes Gaylord Pacific’s dining collection isn’t just variety—it’s their commitment to creating memorable experiences that celebrate our region’s culinary heritage. Executive Chef Marcus Johnson (formerly of renowned California restaurants) has designed menus that showcase local ingredients while honoring diverse culinary traditions.
“We want these restaurants to become destinations not just for tourists, but places our Chula Vista neighbors will be proud to bring friends and family,” notes Johnson. “Each venue tells part of our region’s story through food.”
What The Gaylord Pacific Resort Means for Chula Vista
For our community, these new dining destinations represent more than just new places to eat—they signal Chula Vista’s emergence as South Bay’s culinary and hospitality leader. With price points ranging from casual to upscale, these venues will offer options for everyday dining, business lunches, and special celebrations.
The openings will also create approximately 400 new food service jobs in our community, providing career opportunities for local culinary talent who may have previously commuted to downtown San Diego.
Be sure to follow the Port of San Diego so you can stay up-to-date with all the new developments coming to the Chula Vista Bayfront.
Join the Excitement
As we approach the resort’s 2025 opening, look for announcements about preview events and reservation opportunities. The resort’s management has hinted at special preview dinners and local resident discount programs to introduce these restaurants to our community.
Want to stay informed about opening dates and special offers? Sign up for our community newsletter or follow us on social media for the latest updates about Gaylord Pacific Resort and all the delicious new options coming to our Chula Vista waterfront.
Have you visited other Gaylord Resort locations? Which of these upcoming restaurants are you most excited to try? Let us know on Facebook!
