Taste of Bonita 2025: This Fun Community Event Returns After 13 Years!
The Taste of Bonita is finally making its comeback, and it’s been a long time coming. The last time our community enjoyed this event was all the way back in 2012 at the Chula Vista Municipal Golf Course. After more than a decade away, this South Bay favorite is returning, and I couldn’t be more excited to see it back on the calendar.
If you’re new to the area or don’t quite remember, the Taste of Bonita was a highlight for local food lovers, bringing together great flavors and community fun. To give you some perspective, the last time this event was held I was still in middle school (LOL)! We even pulled some photos from the archives to show just how much of a community staple it was.
This year’s event is shaping up to be just as special, with a fresh lineup of local restaurants, live entertainment, and plenty of reasons to get your tickets now. Let’s take a look at what you can expect.
New Hosts, Same Delicious Mission
This time around, our beloved Bonita Museum & Cultural Center (you know, that gem at 4355 Bonita Road) is taking the reins, and honestly, could there be a more perfect match? These folks know how to throw a party while celebrating our community’s rich culture and history. Plus, the museum will be staying open late during the event – because nothing says “perfect evening” like great food AND fascinating exhibits!
Here’s the best part: every single bite you take is supporting free educational programs for over 5,000 school children and community members right here in the South Bay. Talk about eating for a good cause! Your enjoyment of some killer carne asada is literally helping kids learn – if that’s not a win-win, I don’t know what is.
The Taste of Bonita 2025 Food Lineup So Far
Okay, let’s talk about the real stars of the show – the FOOD! The organizers are still adding vendors (because apparently they want to make sure we all roll home happy), but here’s a sneak peek at some of the heavy hitters already confirmed:
Lolita’s Mexican Food – Oh honey, if you haven’t experienced their legendary carne asada fries, have you even lived in San Diego? This family-owned treasure has been slinging authentic Mexican goodness since 1984, and their Bonita location on Bonita Road is basically a local shrine to deliciousness. Those California burritos? Chef’s kiss
Murrieta’s Fine Mexican Food – These folks don’t mess around when it comes to flavor! Known for their generous portions and margaritas that could make you forget your own name (in the best way), Murrieta’s brings that festive vibe with live music and a cozy patio atmosphere. Their champagne brunch game is strong, so imagine what they’re bringing to this evening event!
Flora Cafe – Now here’s where things get interesting! This charming little spot in the Vons Shopping Center has been winning hearts with its flower-named specialty drinks (hello, Lavender Latte!) and Instagram-worthy floral decor. Their Chicken Pesto Panini and Sourdough Cinnamon Roll are about to become your new obsessions. If you haven’t visited Flora Cafe, be sure to check out our very own Mr. Chula Vista’s video about them. He visited their brand new location when they first opened up, and you know he loves to highlight all the good spots.
More Than Just a Food Festival
Look, we all love to eat (obviously), but this event is serving up so much more than just amazing food. You’re getting:
- A chance to explore local restaurants you might not have tried yet
- An evening of live music to set the perfect mood
- Late-night access to fascinating museum exhibits
- The warm, fuzzy feeling of supporting local education
- An excuse to hang out with friends and neighbors while stuffing your face – what’s not to love?
- There will also be a silent auction & raffle throughout the evening
Get Your Tickets Before They’re Gone!
Alright, let’s talk logistics because I know you’re already mentally planning your outfit for this foodie extravaganza! Tickets are $50 for adults and $25 for kids – honestly, that’s a steal when you consider you’re getting tastes from multiple restaurants, live entertainment, AND you’re supporting education in our community. I’ve spent more than that on a mediocre dinner for two at some chain restaurant!
You can snag your tickets online through the Bonita Museum’s website, link here.
Calling All Local Restaurants!
Here’s a fun little insider scoop: they’re still accepting applications from local South Bay restaurants that want to join the party! So, if you have a favorite spot that’s not on the list yet, drop them a hint (or twelve). The more the merrier, right? All the details about participating are right there on the Bonita Museum’s website.
Mark Your Calendars (Seriously, Do It Now!)
- When: Saturday, September 27th, 5:00 PM – 9:00 PM
- Where: Bonita Museum & Cultural Center, 4355 Bonita Road, Bonita
- Why: Because your taste buds deserve it, and local kids need our support!
The Taste of Bonita is one of those events that comes around once in a blue moon (or apparently once every 13 years), so don’t be that person who says, “I’ll catch it next time.” Trust me, you don’t want to spend the next decade hearing everyone else rave about the fantastic food and fun atmosphere. Here’s hoping this amazing event becomes an annual tradition for our community – we definitely deserve to have this kind of celebration every year!
So grab your friends, bring your appetite, and get ready to taste your way through the best of what our Sweetwater Valley has to offer. Your stomach will thank you, local students will benefit, and you’ll have bragging rights for years to come.
See you there, Bonita! Let’s make this comeback even better than the original!
