Home Blog Page 54

The Chula Vista sign is getting a new paint job and LED lights

In the coming weeks, the heart of Chula Vista’s bustling business district will witness a transformation of one of its most recognizable symbols. The Chula Vista sign, a fixture for nearly twenty years, is set for an exciting upgrade. Crews are rolling up their sleeves to infuse new life into this iconic landmark with cutting-edge, color-changing LED lights, mirroring the vibrant restoration seen with the Hillcrest sign.

The Chula Vista sign gets a bright future with LEDs

Ward Lannom, a Signtech representative spearheading this project, shared insights into the renovation. Tasked by Chula Vista’s city officials, Signtech’s mission is to replace outdated neon lights with energy-efficient LEDs and undertake additional restoration efforts. This switch not only promises a visually stunning sign but also forecasts significant savings in energy costs and reductions in emissions for the city. “By the time we’re done, we’re looking forward to unveiling a sign that not only lights up the street but also sets a sustainable example,” Lannom said enthusiastically.

Time to upgrade the sign with the latest technology

Reflecting on the sign’s past, Lannom acknowledged neon’s charm and appeal but pointed out its inefficiencies and rising maintenance costs. “Neon had its era, but LEDs are now the way forward, capable of mimicking neon’s glow without its energy footprint,” he explained. This technological leap forward means the Third Avenue sign can now celebrate Chula Vista’s vibrant community spirit in a kaleidoscope of colors, aligning with holidays and city events, from the Fourth of July fireworks to Cinco de Mayo festivities.

Pay attention to workers and road closures during the work

As the upgrade takes shape, parts of Third Avenue will see temporary closures to ensure the safety of the crews hard at work. Scheduled disruptions will occur from 7 a.m. to 4 p.m., with detours planned around the work zones from Parkway to G Street. Traffic patterns will adapt as the project progresses, aiming for minimal inconvenience to the community.

The Chula Vista sign is getting an upgrade this month
During the work Third Avenue will be closed to only one lane during the day. Be sure to pay attention to the signs & workers.

Another welcomed upgrade to the downtown area

This sign’s facelift symbolizes more than technological advancement; it reflects Chula Vista’s commitment to progress, sustainability, and community pride. “It’s more than just an update; it’s a reinvigoration of our shared spaces, benefiting everyone in Chula Vista—from business owners to residents,” Lannom added, capturing the collective anticipation for the Chula Vista sign’s new chapter.

Stay tuned as Third Avenue’s gateway sign transitions into a modern beacon of community and innovation, promising brighter days (and nights) ahead for Chula Vista. We will be posting more photos and videos of the work. You can always follow us on Instagram for the latest.

Garbatella Italiano in Chula Vista is offering brunch

Garbatella Italiano at the Otay Ranch Town Center in Chula Vista now offers weekend brunch. I had the chance to check it out last Sunday. The food was delicious, the place’s ambiance was always impressive, and our service was exceptional. Add this to your list of places to check out for brunch.

Five Fierce Female Entrepreneurs Shaking Up Downtown Chula Vista

As we celebrate Women’s History Month, let’s spotlight Five Fierce Female Entrepreneurs leaving their mark on Downtown Chula Vista. From reviving neighborhood gems to showcasing Mexican artistry, these boss ladies are slaying the game, and I love to support them.

Snooky Rico – Rico’s On 3rd, The Salon Inc.

More than just a hairstylist, Snooky is a real-life Wonder Woman. With over four decades in the business, she turned her passion into a thriving family salon. But her impact goes beyond tresses—after battling breast cancer, she started a nonprofit providing free services and support to cancer warriors. Snooky’s “Loving You Through It” is the ultimate beauty empowerment.

Daisy Romero – El Cholo’s Kid

This border child has Mexican culture running through her veins. In 2008, Daisy made her dream a reality by launching El Cholo’s Kid to showcase the talents of Mexican artisans stateside. Her recent brick-and-mortar on Third Ave is a vibrant hub offering handmade, recycled plastic bags that are functional works of art. If you have yet to visit her new store along Third Ave., then check her out. You can not miss it; the front of the store is my absolute favorite, so colorful.

El Cholo Kid is one of our Five Fierce Female Entrepreneurs in Chula Vista
I love the colorful store front of El Cholo Kid along Third Ave. You really can’t miss it.

Priscilla Curiel – Mujer Divina Coffee & Tuetano Taco Shop

With roots at her family’s beloved Talavera Azul, Priscilla’s culinary skills were forged in fire. She’s bringing new life to the neighborhood with her upcoming Mujer Divina Coffee Shop and Tuétano Taqueria. Get ready for unique brews, breakfast burritos, and the most authentic birria this side of the border. Her new location opened this month and is already attracting quite a crowd. I love everything she does, and she is a true leader when it comes to taking charge and going for it.

Mujer Divina Chula Vista location
Mujer Divina Chula Vista location just opened up and is already drawing quite a crowd. Have you been?

Evelyn Salazar – Standlee’s

When this decades-old bakery supply store faced closure, Evelyn jumped in to save the day. Turning her passions for desserts and charcuterie into entrepreneurial gold, she’s breathing new life into Standlee’s. Swing by for baking workshops and an expanded inventory that’ll make you drool. Evelyn also hosts so many fun events at her location. Ensure you follow her on Instagram to see when her next workshop is coming up.

Dewanna Dallas & Via Gary – D’Via Art & Style

A friendship forged in high school blossomed into an artistic powerhouse. Dewanna and Via are the self-taught creators behind D’Via Art & Style, a vibrant haven for original fine art, wearable fashions, statement jewelry, and more. Each piece is a reflection of their boundless creativity and passion.

These Five Fierce Female Entrepreneurs are just a taste of the incredible female entrepreneurial spirit thriving in Downtown Chula Vista and all over this community. There are so many other women-owned gems waiting to be discovered and supported. From trendy boutiques to cozy cafes, the area is brimming with passion projects brought to life by local ladies. So get out there and show your support! Explore the unique offerings, soak up the vibrant energy, and celebrate the fierce females transforming our community one small business at a time.

Randy’s Doughnuts is coming to Chula Vista

Are you excited about Randy’s Donuts opening in Chula Vista? They will be located at 3100 Bonita Rd. Ste 200. No opening date yet, but I will keep you posted.

March 2024 updates on Downtown Chula Vista

Hey there, neighbors! Your friendly neighborhood blogger here with the latest scoop on what’s brewing in our beloved downtown Chula Vista. Get ready to mark your calendars because some exciting changes are happening. You know how much I adore strolling through our vibrant streets, popping into local haunts, and staying in the loop on all the happenings. Grab a seat and let me fill you in!

First up, remember that iconic spot that used to be the Chula Vista Ale House? Well, hold onto your hats because a brand-new brewery is about to take over that prime real estate. Resident Brewery is gearing up to make its grand debut, and you know I’ll be first in line to give you all the juicy details as soon as those opening dates are announced. Keep those pint glasses polished, folks!

But that’s not all! Prepare your taste buds because a new restaurant is coming to town, and it’s setting up shop right next to our beloved La Nacional. El Patrona is taking over the old Brewhouse spot, promising to bring a fresh and flavorful dining experience to our community. I can already smell the mouthwatering aromas wafting through the streets.

And let’s not forget about TNT Pizza! Many of you have been raving about their delicious pies in the comments section of my previous posts. Well, get ready to indulge even closer to home because they’re hard at work prepping their new location for an epic grand opening. I’ll be sure to give you all the insider tips on their can’t-miss specialties.

Mark my words, downtowners, this is just the beginning! Our beloved neighborhood is buzzing with even more exciting developments on the horizon. Stay tuned to my blog for the latest updates, insider scoops, and all the juicy details you crave. I’ll be back with more news before you can say “another round, please!”

Cheers to our vibrant community and the amazing transformations happening right before our eyes. Let’s raise a glass (or a slice of pizza) to the future of downtown Chula Vista!

Discovering La Nacional: A Culinary Gem in Chula Vista’s Booming Food Scene

La Nacional stands nestled in the heart of downtown Chula Vista, an area rapidly becoming a hotspot for food enthusiasts with an array of new eateries popping up and more on the horizon. This restaurant is not just a place to dine; it’s a story of perseverance, passion, and a tribute to heritage. Here’s why La Nacional captures the hearts (and appetites) of locals and visitors alike.

La Nacional is a Journey of Authenticity and Flavor

Located on the bustling Third Avenue, La Nacional is a testament to what it means to bring authentic and bold flavors to the table. The husband and wife duo, Eddie Trejo and Joanne Cornejo, have poured their hearts into this venture. This journey finally came to fruition in October of last year after a challenging 4.5-year journey marked by delays, including the COVID-19 pandemic. Their perseverance reminds them of the power of holding onto a dream, no matter the obstacles.

A Tribute to Roots and Travels

Upon stepping into La Nacional, you’re immediately greeted by walls adorned with family photos and art, setting the stage for a deeply personal dining experience. The menu reflects Eddie and Joanne’s roots and travels, offering a modern yet authentic taste that aims to delight. The fusion of an American and Mexican old-fashioned cocktail epitomizes the innovative spirit of their offerings, creating a unique taste that’s both familiar and new.

Be sure to follow them on Instagram to see more of their menu and drink selections.

La Nacional is located in downtown Chula Vista
La Nacional is located in downtown Chula Vista. Just look at all of this delicious food. Photo credit to @lanacionalcv on Instagram.

The Culinary Masters Behind the Menu

The magic of La Nacional’s menu comes to life thanks to Chef Alvaro Hernandez and cocktail craftsman Felipe Lopez, known as Pippo. Together, they’ve created a menu that pays homage to their heritage while appealing to a broad range of tastes. Whether it’s the visually stunning and Instagram-worthy dishes or the uniquely crafted cocktails, each element of the menu is designed to offer a memorable dining experience.

A Family-Friendly Destination with Broad Appeal

La Nacional is a family-friendly venue that welcomes everyone—from families looking for a comfortable spot to dine with children to foodies in search of their next favorite meal. The wide array of flavors ensures that there’s something for everyone, making it a perfect spot for gatherings where diverse tastes can be celebrated.
Chula Vista resident Janet Davis says, “I’ve visited La Nacional twice and keep coming back for more. The food and drinks are incredible – I’ve tried the loaded nachos, carne asada fries, and several expertly made cocktails. The vibes are excellent on Friday nights when they have live music. The staff always makes me feel right at home.”

You will find similar reviews on the La Nacional Yelp listing.

Joining the Culinary Renaissance of Chula Vista

As downtown Chula Vista continues to grow as a culinary destination, La Nacional is at the forefront of this renaissance, offering a dining experience rooted in authenticity and flavored with innovation. The area’s expansion of eateries promises a vibrant future for food lovers. La Nacional is leading the way with its dedication to creating dishes that honor tradition while embracing the new.

Remember, La Nacional is more than just a restaurant; it’s a place where food meets story, where every dish served celebrates heritage and innovation. The Chula Vista Restaurant scene continues to flourishes, La Nacional remains a beacon for those seeking an authentic dining experience. Whether you’re a local resident or a visitor, be sure to add La Nacional to your list of must-visit destinations in downtown Chula Vista. Come hungry, leave inspired, and be ready to share the unique flavors and stories that only they can offer.