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Update on the Chula Vista Center project. There are actually two projects coming to the old Sears location.

Kurt Bunch
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Update on the Chula Vista Center project. There are actually two projects coming to the old Sears location.

What is going on Chula Vista? So I have some updates on the Chula Vista Center project, particularly on the site where Sears once stood. Thanks to a tip from a dedicated follower, we’ve got some intriguing news about the future of this area.

First, it’s important to mention that while these plans are still in the drawing board phase, their potential for our community is undeniable. So, what’s the scoop? Sharp Rees-Stealy Medical Group is proposing a new medical clinic. This isn’t just any clinic, though. We’re talking about a three-story clinic on the westside corner across from Cane’s Chicken.

But that’s not all. Plans are underway to construct a three-story parking garage alongside this proposed clinic. This addition accommodates the anticipated influx of visitors and residents, ensuring ease of access and ample parking space. It will be on the east side, closer to Wells Fargo.

You might wonder why this particular plot of land is being developed, especially considering the big new community Citrus Bay Chula Vista is rising where Sears once stood. The answer is simple yet thoughtful: this development is a separate entity designed to complement the new housing and the broader needs of our Chula Vista community.

Chula Vista Center the old Sears location
Dirt and rubble are all that is left of the old Sears location now. A new housing development along with a medical clinic are coming to the area soon. This photo was shot on November 2023.

As we look forward to these changes, it’s essential to remember that they are, for now, proposals. But the vision behind them—to enhance healthcare accessibility and support our growing community—is something worth getting excited about.

I will keep my ears to the ground for any updates or sneak peeks, including those much-anticipated photos of the building. After all, seeing is believing, and I can’t wait to see how this project unfolds, bringing new life and services to our beloved Chula Vista Center.

Stay tuned, neighbors, for more updates as they come. Remember, if you have any news or updates in Chula Vista, then reach out to me. You can message me on our new website or shoot me a DM on Instagram.

Common Theory is now serving beer and food at their Chula Vista location

Kurt Bunch
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Common Theory is now serving beer and food at their Chula Vista location

Guess which new restaurant has landed in Chula Vista, Common Theory. After rocking Convoy Street for ten years, Common Theory Public House is spreading its wings and is all set to wow us with a brand new beer-centric spot right here in our community! Please mark your calendars for Monday, March 4th, because that’s when they’re opening their doors in their new Millenia location. It’s shaping up to be the go-to place for residents living in the area. 

Common Theory Public House has some roots in Chula Vista

Owners Joon Lee and Cris Liang are no strangers to our neck of the woods. Having grown up in Chula Vista and bonded over their UCSD days, they are rolling out the red carpet significantly. They’ve jazzed up the place with a sleek, window-surrounded 4,500-square-foot space, a mix of cozy seating arrangements, and a welcoming 26-seat communal table, perfect for making new friends or catching up with old ones.

And let’s talk about the heart of the house—a dazzling 18-seat, 30-tap bar, watched over by an impressive 3D dragon courtesy of Christopher Konecki, a San Diego artist whose creations also grace the original location. Here, you’ll find a treasure trove of mostly local brews, including some sought-after gems from Russian River Brewing. Plus, Chris Lee, the wizard behind their cocktails, is stirring up some magic with low-ABV delights until they bring in the full liquor lineup.

Common Theory Public House in Chula Vista
Check out the beautiful bar area at the new Common Theory Public House in Chula VIsta—photo Credit to Common Theory Website.

Let’s talk about their delicious food

Food-wise, Lee and Liang are serving up a slice of Convoy with a South Bay twist. The Otay Ranch menu is a delightful mix of favorites like the Szechuan spicy chicken sandwich and new additions inspired by Mexican cuisine and Asian flavors from Filipino to Vietnamese dishes. And, according to Chula Vista’s own Steve Pinnock, it’s not just the food drawing in the crowds; the duck fat fries are a must-try, and the welcoming vibe makes it a perfect spot for any day of the week.

Are you thinking of a picnic in the park? The kitchen is ahead of you with its takeout-friendly bento boxes, and the bar is ready to can growlers of beer for you to take home or enjoy under the sky.

There is also more coming to the Millenia area 

But wait, there’s more on the horizon! By mid-April, Lee and Liang will be unveiling an all-you-can-eat Sura Korean BBQ next door. And they’re not stopping there; with plans to pepper San Diego with more spots from Common Theory to fresh bar concepts, our area is on the brink of a significant growth spurt, promising more exciting projects to come.

So, let’s raise a glass to new beginnings and the continued growth of our vibrant community. See you at Common Theory Public House, where good times and great tastes await!

Standlee’s Baking Supply Store: Preserving the tradition in Chula Vista

Chula Vista Blog
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Standlee’s Baking Supply Store: Preserving the tradition in Chula Vista

In the heart of Chula Vista, a beacon of baking tradition has stood tall for over six decades. Standlee’s Baking Supply Store, a longstanding establishment in the community since the 1950s, continues to serve as a haven for bakers of all levels, from beginners to seasoned professionals. If you have lived in Chula Vista for some time, then you have visited Standlee’s before. 

In a recent interview on San Diego CBS8, Evelyn Salazar, the current owner, shared the store’s rich history and unwavering commitment to serving bakers’ passion.

The Legacy of Standlee’s Baking Supply Store

Standlee’s Baking Supply Store has been an integral part of the Chula Vista community for over half a century. While the ownership has changed hands over the years, the store’s core values and dedication to providing top-quality baking supplies have remained steadfast. Evelyn Salazar, a passionate baker herself, took over the reins of this iconic establishment, ensuring that the legacy lives on.

Meeting the Needs of Bakers in Chula Vista

Evelyn Salazar’s dedication to preserving the store’s legacy is evident in her commitment to catering to a diverse clientele. Standlee’s offers a wide range of baking supplies, from essential ingredients to specialized tools and equipment. Whether you’re a home baker whipping up a batch of cookies or a professional pastry chef crafting intricate desserts, Standlee’s has everything you need under one roof, ensuring convenience and accessibility.

Passion for Baking and candy-making

Evelyn’s own passion for baking is the driving force behind her dedication to the store. As both owner and baker, she understands the intricacies and challenges of the craft, and her enthusiasm is contagious. The store’s customers fuel her passion, inspiring her to stay up-to-date with the latest industry trends and techniques, ensuring that Standlee’s remains a hub for baking excellence.

Community Connection

Standlee’s Baking Supply Store is more than just a place to buy baking supplies; it’s a cornerstone of the Chula Vista community. For decades, the store has fostered a sense of belonging and camaraderie among local residents. Whether you’re a seasoned baker seeking inspiration or a curious newcomer eager to learn, Standlee’s welcomes you with open arms, creating a space where the love of baking brings people together.

I highly recommend you follow them on their Instagram account. They post specials and information on cooking and candy-making classes, and there are even a few I might check out.

Unique Offerings and Special Clientele

Beyond traditional baking supplies, Standlee’s caters to unique needs and unconventional uses. From edible coloring for pets to hair dye for covering grays, the store’s commitment to meeting diverse demands is unparalleled. In a recent interview with San Diego CBS8, Evelyn shared humorous anecdotes, highlighting the store’s ability to adapt and cater to the ever-changing needs of its customers.

Are you ready to be a baker or candy maker?

Standlee’s Baking Supply Store is a true pillar of the Chula Vista community, preserving tradition while embracing innovation and serving the passion of bakers. Evelyn Salazar’s dedication to upholding the store’s legacy and providing a warm, welcoming environment is evident in every aspect of the business. 

As a female-owned business, Standlee’s has been highlighted in March for Women’s Day, celebrating the achievements of women entrepreneurs like Evelyn, who have made their mark in the community. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a curious newcomer, a visit to Standlee’s promises an experience like no other, filled with expertise, warmth, and an array of baking supplies that will ignite your culinary passion.

Eastlake Food to Go Facebook group celebrates four years

Kurt Bunch
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Eastlake Food to Go Facebook group celebrates four years

I just had to share a fantastic community story with you. Stories like this drive me to create this website. Remember the amazing Facebook group I’ve discussed a few times, “Eastlake Food to Go!”? Well, it’s time to celebrate a special milestone!

Four years ago today, Katia Callahan created this incredible group as a lifeline for our community during the early days of the pandemic. With so much uncertainty about which businesses were open or offering takeout and delivery, members came together to share valuable information and support our local restaurants.

What started as a small group of around ten members has grown into a thriving community of nearly 25,000 active members! And it’s not just limited to Facebook – you can also find them on Instagram and Threads.

But this group is more than just a resource for finding open eateries. It has transformed into a vibrant support system for small businesses throughout the South Bay. From home-based food businesses to established restaurants, the group provides a platform for promotion and connection.

Eastlake Food To Go has supported so many local home-based businesses

One remarkable story is that of Diana Tapiz of Tres Fuegos Cocina, the first business in the county recognized as a home kitchen. Group members rallied together to speak to support the home kitchen program at the board of supervisors, leading to its permanent establishment earlier this year.

The group’s impact goes beyond the realm of food, too. They’ve organized community fundraisers and even made a dream quinceanera come true for a teen battling terminal brain cancer.

So, whether you’re a long-time resident or a newcomer to the Chula Vista area, this Facebook group is a must-follow. While it may be named “Eastlake Food to Go,” you’ll find a wealth of information on restaurants and businesses across the South Bay community.

I discovered a few great local Chula Vista restaurants with this group

Through this group, I’ve discovered so many incredible local spots, like Garcia’s Mexican Food, whose recent call for community support led me to try their delicious food. That is what I love: finding new hidden gems like them through this group.

Join me in celebrating the fourth anniversary of this fantastic community resource and the incredible individuals who make it thrive. Let’s continue supporting our local businesses and fostering the spirit of unity that makes our neighborhood so unique.

Please let me know if you know of another Facebook group focused on Chula Vista. I love to be part of local groups that highlight the community. Please send me a DM on Instagram or message me here.

Chula Vista sign getting a makeover this week

Kurt Bunch
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Chula Vista sign getting a makeover this week

Get ready for a dazzling transformation in the heart of Chula Vista! The iconic Chula Vista sign, or Third Avenue sign as some will call it, is undergoing an exciting makeover. Crews have already kicked off the revitalization project, breathing new life into this cherished symbol of the city’s vibrant spirit. I love to go out and take photos of it, especially at night.

This isn’t just any ordinary facelift – the sign is being outfitted with state-of-the-art LED lights, promising a spectacular display that will illuminate the night sky with a kaleidoscope of colors. Imagine the possibilities during holidays and special occasions when the sign will become a canvas for festive celebrations, drawing crowds to bask in its radiant glory.

Not only will the new lights add a touch of magic to the city’s skyline, but they’ll also be a more cost-effective and environmentally friendly solution, aligning with Chula Vista’s commitment to sustainability.

Mark your calendars because this exciting project is set to reach its grand finale on March 15th, when the revamped “Third Avenue” sign will be unveiled in all its glory. Stay tuned for updates because I’ll be sure to let you know the moment this iconic landmark emerges from its transformation, ready to dazzle and delight the entire community once again.

Garcia’s Mexican Food: Chula Vista’s Hidden Gem

Kurt Bunch
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Garcia’s Mexican Food: Chula Vista’s Hidden Gem

I have lived in Chula Vista for over 30 years and still find hidden gems in this community. There are so many restaurants and businesses along Main St. that you never realize them if someone didn’t tell you. Garcia’s Mexican Food is one of those spots.

Located at 2540 Main Street, just before Broadway, Garcia’s is between industrial businesses and recycling centers; even with the address, I still had to search for it carefully. Walking into Garcia’s is like stepping into a warm and cozy atmosphere; its welcoming vibe makes you feel at home.

This small, family-operated restaurant offers more than just a meal; it’s an experience of authentic Mexican cuisine crafted with love and served with a smile. The dining room, though modest in size, is where memories are made, laughter is shared, and community is strengthened.

Garcia's Mexican Food in Chula Vista
Garcia’s Mexican Food in Chula Vista has a small dining room. You can also get your food to go.

Add them to your list of places to explore

While everything on the menu promises to tantalize your taste buds, the Carne Asada plate and Enchiladas De Mole we ordered were delicious. Each bite is a testament to the passion and tradition that the Garcia family pours into their cooking. And if you’re a breakfast enthusiast like me, their morning selections are a call you’ll happily answer.

What sets Garcia’s apart isn’t just its homemade food—it’s the people and their stories. The staff, often including the owners themselves, greets you with genuine smiles and treats you like family. It’s this personal touch that turns first-time visitors into regulars. I’m already planning on a return trip to try their breakfast. They recently opened on Saturdays, but their hours are still up in the air.

Community and Cuisine Hand in Hand

Recently, Garcia’s has turned to social media to share their food, stories, and appeal for community support during personal challenges. Their openness and resilience have only deepened the bond they share with the residents of Chula Vista.

Discovering Garcia’s Mexican Food

My journey to Garcia’s began with a social media post that led me to this hidden gem. It’s crazy that after living in Chula Vista for over 30 years, I was astounded to find such a culinary marvel in my backyard. The exceptional food and service instantly made me a convert, and I’ve posted photos and videos on all my social media channels.

Garcia's Mexican Food in Chula Vista
I went with the Carne Asada plate with flour tortillas. I need to come back and try breakfast.

A few visiting tips

For an ideal visit, aim for midday. Lunchtime offers a quieter setting to savor your meal. While seating may be limited and the parking lot small, the flavors and warmth inside are boundless. And a little insider tip: come hungry. Everything on the menu is worth indulging in.

I highly recommend following them on Facebook and Instagram as their hours have changed. Garcia’s recently posted that they might be closed on the weekends until further notice. I will be sure to share any updates when I can.

A Culinary Cornerstone

In a city dotted with Mexican restaurants, Garcia’s stands out as a testament to authentic, borderless Mexican cuisine. As a hidden gem woven into the fabric of Chula Vista since 1982, Garcia’s isn’t just a place to eat—it’s a place to belong, celebrate, and experience the true spirit of community and delicious food.

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