Taste of Third Avenue 2025: Chula Vista’s Ultimate Foodie Night Returns
One of my favorite events is coming up, and I cannot wait for it. The Taste of Third Avenue is happening on Thursday, March 20th. This is the perfect event if you want to sample some of the best that Downtown Chula Vista has to offer. This year, they have over 25 participating restaurants, bars, and local businesses on the list. The event starts at 4 PM and goes till 8 PM. You really want to get out there early because it is a packed event with some restaurants having long lines to get the sample. They also have live entertainment and so much more to get off work early and out there.
What is the Taste of Third Avenue?
The Taste of Third is a foodie paradise. It allows you to sample bites and sips from over 25 local restaurants, bars, and shops while enjoying live music and the lively atmosphere of Downtown Chula Vista. This is the perfect time to try a new spot you haven’t had a chance to visit while also enjoying your local favorites. Every year, this event gets bigger and bigger, and I can’t wait to see what they have in store for this year’s event.
“We are thrilled to bring back the Taste of Third Avenue for another year of culinary exploration and community celebration. Last year’s event was a tremendous success, and we’re looking forward to building on that momentum.” Dominic Li Mandri, District Manager of the Downtown Chula Vista Association.
Here is a list of the participating locations:
- Acqua E Farina Trattoria Romana (VT)
- The Balboa South
- Bar Sin Nombre
- Brewjeria Taproom & Kitchen
- Chula Vista Brewing
- Don Pedro Taco Shop
- Grind House
- Groundswell Brewing
- KFC
- La Nacional
- Lime in the Coconut
- Los Cuates Seafood & Bar
- Mujer Divina Burrito & Coffeehouse
- My Cup of Tea Unique Gifts
- My Dream Hall
- Silver Dollar Cocktail Lounge
- Spoon House
- SweetLife Ice Cream
- Tender Hooligan
- Teriyaki Grill
- TG Cafe
- Thr3e Punk Ales Brewing Co.
- The Vogue Tavern
- X (Speakeasy inside Lime in the Coconut)
Where Does It All Begin?
The event begins at the corner of Third Avenue and Park Way (Memorial Park), where you’ll grab your Taste of Third Passport. This handy guide will show you all the spots to visit. Then, you’re off to explore Downtown’s best eats and drinks. Last year I started right at 4 PM and between walking all the spots and doing a little shopping along the way we didn’t get to hit all of the restaurants. This year I plan on making it a mission to hit all 25+ locations. I’ll let you know how that worked out for me.
This event is more than just great food. It’s a celebration of Chula Vista’s community spirit. You get to meet local business owners, discover new favorites, and reconnect with old ones. The live music creates a fun vibe that turns Third Avenue into one big street party that day. I can’t wait for the event.
What Can You Expect?
There will be food and drinks from over 25 spots, including local favorites like Acqua E Farina, Tender Hooligan, and Mujer Divina Burrito & Coffee House. Live music will keep the energy high throughout the evening, with BJ Jezbera performing outside 3 Punks Ale, DJ Boobieman spinning tunes at Chula Vista Brewery, and Jaycee One getting the party started at Memorial Park.
Local vendors will also be set up along the street, offering unique products from artists, makers, and small businesses. The event is a fantastic way to support the local community while having a great time.
I want to give a big shout-out to all the sponsors of this event. They typically have booths set up at the event, so make sure to stop by and thank them. This vibrant community celebration is made possible through the generous sponsorship of Radio Latina, the Downtown Chula Vista Farmers Market, the Hyatt Vacation Club, and other local supporters.
Tips for Making the Most of Your Evening
A few tips can help you make the most of your evening. Bringing a ziplock bag might sound odd, but it can be a lifesaver if you want to save samples for later since you do get a lot at some locations. It’s also wise to grab a bite before diving into the drink samples to keep you going strong through the night. You will also want to bring your comfortable shoes since there is a lot of walking to get to each location. Also, bring some cash, especially small bills. The samples are free, but I like to tip the employees serving them. It’s a busy night, and I appreciate all they do.
Don’t Wait—Get Your Tickets Now
Tickets are $54 and are available online at the Downtown Chula Vista website. Early bird tickets have already sold out; none will be sold at the door, so it’s important to get yours early. If you’re looking to save money and still participate in the event, you could buy one ticket and share it with your partner or friend. My wife and I plan to do this since she doesn’t drink. We will trade off the food samples, and I will get all the drink samples.
Are you looking forward to the event? I will be out there all night walking up and down Third Avenue. If you see me, be sure to stop and say Hi. You will also find me wrapping up the night at my favorite bar in Chula Vista, the Silver Dollar. I will be sure to post up a video recap of the event and what my favorites of the night were. Let me know on Facebook if you plan on going and what you love most about the event. See you out there.
