Chula Vista Blog
Be sure you head to downtown Chula Vista and give them a try

La Nacional Brings Authentic Mexican Flavors to Booming Downtown Chula Vista

La Nacional is located in downtown Chula Vista

Downtown Chula Vista has become a hotspot for local eateries, with exciting new restaurants popping up throughout the year. The latest addition is La Nacional, bringing traditional Mexican cuisine and drinks to 279 Third Avenue.

The team behind National City’s popular Machete Beer House opened La Nacional in October 2023, after several years of anticipation. Husband and wife owners Eddie Trejo and Joann Cornejo chose downtown Chula Vista for its energetic dining scene and community feel.

“We’ve seen downtown Chula Vista transform into a thriving culinary destination over the past few years,” said Eddie Trejo. “La Nacional is our passion project to bring authentic Mexican flavors from spirits and beer to scratch-made comida.”

La Nacional is a Family-Friendly Mexican Restaurant and Bar

La Nacional aims to be a family-friendly neighborhood spot for Chula Vista residents. The menu from Executive Chef Alvaro Hernandez features classic Mexican appetizers, tacos, sides, and weekend brunch.

Expect breakfast burritos, angus beef birria, chilaquiles, and more for Saturday and Sunday brunch. Tacos range from carne asada and carnitas to pescado and camarones.

Pair your meal with Mexican spirits or craft cervezas. Or sip on creative micheladas and margaritas. Lead bartender Felipe “Pipo” Lopez curates the cocktail menu.

La Nacional in Chula Vista is serving brunch as well
La Nacional in Chula Vista is serving brunch now as well. Chilaquiles, Birria y bebidas are on the menu. Photo from La Nacional Instagram account.

Bringing Mexico’s Rich Cuisine to America’s Finest City

Born in Mexico, Chef Alvaro is thrilled to share his culture’s traditional plates with Chula Vista. “I take pride in using authentic ingredients and time-honored cooking techniques for incredible depth of flavor,” he said.

The intimate interior transports guests to Mexico with traditional decor, vibrant colors, and festive lighting. La Nacional promises relaxing patio dining soon.

As downtown Chula Vista continues to welcome new eateries, La Nacional brings rich south-of-the-border cuisine to Third Avenue. Experience Mexico’s spirit at the new go-to Mexican restaurant and bar.

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I have lived in this great community for over 30 years. In that time I have seen so many changes both good and bad. My goal is to promote this city and all of the good that goes on here. There are so many local events, small businesses and community groups making this city even better. You can always find me at the events taking photos. This site is a passion project of mine and I want to use this platform to get the community engaged. Get out and enjoy Chula Vista and make sure to follow me on all the socials for more!