Chula Vista Blog With Community Stories & Highlights

Las Ahumaderas – Discovering Chula Vista’s Culinary Gem

Chula Vista Food

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December 28, 2023

Las Ahumaderas – Discovering Chula Vista’s Culinary Gem

If there is one thing Chula Vista has plenty of it’s delicious food choices. We have seen a wave of new places opening up all over. I love to see new restaurants opening and today is one I have been waiting for. Every time I would drive down Broadway I would check to see if Las Ahumaderas was finally opening. Well today I’m happy to say it is here – the grand opening of a Tijuana legend Las Ahumaderas. This famous taco restaurant, known for its mouthwatering offerings, has expanded its horizons to Chula Vista, bridging the culinary gap between the two cities.

Las Ahumaderas Brings A New Spot with Familiar Flavors

Situated at the bustling corner of Broadway and Moss, Las Ahumaderas opened it’s doors on Tuesday to a line of people waiting to order tacos. I stepped into the restaurant and the aromas of classic Tijuana tacos mingled with the excitement of new twists on traditional favorites. The menu is a tempting array of Asada and a tacos, Elote, and even Crepes – a testament to the restaurant’s commitment to both tradition and innovation.

The Opening Day: Chula Vista turns out to show their support

The opening day of Las Ahumaderas in Chula Vista was nothing short of a fiesta. The crowd’s enthusiasm was palpable, reflecting the community’s anticipation for this culinary addition. It wasn’t just the locals who were eagerly awaiting the opening; the buzz around this launch had been building for quite some time. I was recently speaking with some friends who couldn’t wait to give them a try once they opened. You can find Las Ahumaderas at 1011 Broadway (Visit their Google Maps Listing). The parking lot is kind of tight so it is best to find street parking.

“This place just opened and it is fantastic! Went with a coworker today for lunch. Authentic tacos, Mexican corn. Fresh. This will be a regular spot!!” Said Sean F. a Yelp! Reviewer after visiting.

Alan on Yelp! also loved the food and customer service, “One of the best California burritos I’ve had in a while. It was amazing! The customer service & presentation was 5 stars! I recommend to come here if you’re looking for decent food!”

If you want to submit your Yelp! review or see what others had to say then be sure to check out their Yelp listing here.

A Legacy Reborn

Behind this new venture is the charismatic Pedro Rodriguez, a man deeply rooted in the taco-making legacy of his family. His narrative is as rich as the flavors he serves. Originating from Tijuana’s famed taco alley, Pedro’s journey is a blend of tradition and entrepreneurial spirit. The restaurant’s name, a nod to its origins, encapsulates the essence of the smoke from the grills that has been a part of his family’s story for decades.

Pedro’s vision for the eatery goes beyond serving delicious food. He emphasizes the importance of an exceptional customer experience. His goal is for every patron to leave with not just a full belly but also a memorable experience. This commitment to customer satisfaction is what sets Las Ahumaderas apart in the bustling culinary landscape of Chula Vista.

A Culinary Landmark

Las Ahumaderas’ presence in Chula Vista is more than just a new dining option; it’s a cultural bridge, a culinary landmark that connects the flavors of Tijuana with the diverse palate of Chula Vista. As I wrapped up my visit, indulging in more tacos than I care to admit, I realized that Las Ahumaderas is not just a restaurant; it’s a celebration of heritage, flavor, and community. If you find yourself in Chula Vista, make sure to stop by 1011 Broadway – your taste buds will thank you!

Las Ahumaderas in Chula Vista will be open every day. Hours are Sunday to Thursday from 8:00 a.m. to 1:00 a.m. and Fridays and Saturdays from 8:00 a.m. to 4 a.m.

Grove Park in The Village of Montecito is a beautiful Chula Vista Park

Chula Vista Community

Kurt Bunch

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November 10, 2023

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Grove Park in The Village of Montecito is a beautiful Chula Vista Park

The Grove Park in Chula Vista was recently unveiled and it brings another beautiful park to the community. This 7.1-acre park has a multipurpose field, tennis courts, a large picnic area, a large playground, and basketball courts. If you’re looking to host a large get together then you will find plenty of room to roam. They also offer BBQ grills and even a cornhole game area. I was out there yesterday and explored the new park. Families are already getting out and enjoying the new space.

Exploring the Unveiled Beauty of Grove Park in Chula Vista

Welcome to the latest gem in our beautiful city – the Grove Park in Chula Vista! Recently unveiled and creating a buzz in the community, this sprawling 7.1-acre green expanse is a haven for all outdoor enthusiasts. Whether you’re a sports buff, a picnic lover, or you’re seeking a new playground for your kids, Grove Park has it all. Picture this – a multipurpose field, pristine tennis courts, a spacious picnic area, a large playground for the little ones, and basketball courts for those friendly community matches. But that’s not all! With BBQ grills for the perfect summer cookout and a cornhole game area for some casual fun, Grove Park is set to become your next favorite family destination. Join me as we embark on a virtual tour of this lovely addition to the Chula Vista community.

Visit the Otay Ranch website for more details on the Grove Park

Special features of this new Chula Vista park

Grove Park isn’t just another park in Chula Vista; it has been meticulously crafted to cater to everyone’s outdoor interests. The expansive 7.1-acre landscape boasts a versatile multipurpose field for sports activities or other events.

Tennis enthusiasts will appreciate the pristine courts, while kids will be thrilled with the large playground designed for fun and safety. The park offers an extensive picnic area with BBQ grills for those who love to enjoy a meal under the open sky. Imagine weekend family gatherings with your favorite grilled delights.

Also, the basketball courts serve as an excellent spot for a friendly neighborhood match. More into a casual, fun game? The Cornhole game area is a unique feature that you won’t find in many parks. So, come along, get active, or just relax and revel in the blissful surroundings of Grove Park. It’s not just a park; it’s a community experience!

The Grove Park in Chula Vista has plenty of seating — One thing you will find plenty of is space. The Grove Park has a lot of seating areas to host picnics and more. Just be sure to bring a canopy on sunny days.

My impressions of Grove Park

I recently took a drive to explore the new park in town and let me tell you, it’s beautiful! As soon as you walk into the new park, you’ll be blown away by its vast open space. Picture this: soccer games, picnics, and so much more! The lush grassy field, spread across a whopping 3 acres, is perfect for any outdoor activity you can imagine. And guess what? The tennis courts even have markings for playing pickleball! How cool is that?

Now, let me be honest with you. While this park is a treasure trove of fun, a couple of things caught my attention. First, shade seems to be a bit scarce. There’s only one covered picnic area, so if you’re planning to have a picnic, I highly recommend bringing a canopy to stay cool. Also, let’s talk about parking. Unfortunately, there’s no dedicated parking lot, so you’ll have to find street parking. Keep in mind this park primarily serves The Village of Montecito area residents, so if you’re thinking of hosting sports events or something big, parking might pose a bit of a challenge.

But overall, this park is an absolute gem and I can’t wait to see how it becomes a hub of energy and happiness for the community. So pack your bag, grab your friends, and let’s go have an incredible time at this fantastic new park!

Click here for the Google Map location of the Grove Park

Mujer Divina burrito & coffee house coming to downtown Chula Vista soon

Amanda Contreras

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November 10, 2023

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Mujer Divina burrito & coffee house coming to downtown Chula Vista soon

I’m always on the hunt for delicious new coffee shops and tasty burrito joints in the South Bay, so when I heard about Mujer Divina in National City, I knew I had to check it out. All of my friends have been raving about it. They all had suggestions on what to get so I was ready.

Mujer Divina was a project of Priscilla Curiel, the owner of the popular Tuetano Taqueria taco shop. The small but vibrant cafe offers a wide selection of unique coffee drinks, from classic lattes to Mexican-inspired flavors like Cafe de Olla. They also serve up homemade burritos stuffed with Curiel’s family recipes.

A little small, but big on flavor and ambiance

As soon as I walked in, I fell in love with the colorful, feminine decor and the lively ambiance. It is a little small and I highly suggest you give them time. With the latest buzz around them they do get busy and wait times can be long. If you’re in a rush to grab your coffee and go then you might want to consider another place. With that said, it is worth the wait and the staff is doing an amazing job.

“This place immediately gives you a warm, welcoming vibe,” said my friend Maria. “You can tell they care about creating a space for women to feel empowered.”

We ordered a couple of iced coffees – the Cookie Monster latte and cinnamon churro latte – along with a chorizo con papas burrito and the machaca burrito. Everything was fresh, flavorful and delicioso!

The machaca burrito quickly became, my favorite with its tender shredded beef, beans, cheese and amazing red sauce. It tasted like home cooking from my abuela’s kitchen.

“That machaca burrito is out of this world! The meat is so juicy and full of flavor,” Maria raved. “This is totally my new go-to spot.”

Mujer Divina in Chula Vista will be opening soon on Third Avenue. This is a recent image from their Instagram page. Be sure to follow them.

Mujer Divina will be expanding to Chula Vista soon!

Mujer Divina has been such a hit in National City that they will be opening a second location later this year in downtown Chula Vista. This new cafe will allow Curiel to bring her delicious coffee and burritos to more customers in the South Bay. The Chula Vista spot will feature the same empowering feminine vibe along with an expanded menu. I can’t wait to check out the new location when it opens and sample even more of their amazing Mexican-inspired offerings! South Bay coffee lovers and burrito aficionados have even more to look forward to with this divine new outpost.

I will be adding Mujer Divina to my list of places I love

Overall, Mujer Divina is a delightful addition to the Chula Vista food and coffee scene. The service is friendly, the prices are reasonable, and most importantly, the coffee and burritos are fantastic. I highly recommend stopping by this divine little cafe on your next visit to National City!

Do you have a favorite spot in the South Bay that I need to add to my radar? Then make sure to visit us on Instagram or Facebook and shout them out. We just might be headed to visit them next.

La Nacional Brings Authentic Mexican Flavors to Booming Downtown Chula Vista

Kurt Bunch

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November 10, 2023

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La Nacional Brings Authentic Mexican Flavors to Booming 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.

VaniTEE Skincare Studio now opened in San Miguel Ranch

Chula Vista Business Spotlight

Shu Wyann

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September 16, 2023

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VaniTEE Skincare Studio now opened in San Miguel Ranch

As a fellow mom of three, I understand the struggles that come with low self-esteem. Theresa Aqui’s story about growing up with acne and wearing makeup to cover it up really resonated with me. Many of you can relate to feeling self-conscious about your appearance and worrying about how others perceive you.

VaniTEE Skincare Studio in Chula Vista just opened this month

The great news is that Theresa found a way to boost her confidence and now wants to help other moms do the same! She opened her own skincare studio, VaniTEE, right here in Chula Vista. Theresa Aqui opened her new studio in San Miguel Ranch area this month. This adorable little studio offers treatments like PRP therapy, fillers, thread lifts, and more to help you achieve glowing, rejuvenated skin. You can book your appointments on their website here. I highly recommened you also follow Theresa Aqui on her Instagram profile.

But VaniTEE isn’t just about looking better on the outside – it’s about radiating self-love and confidence from within! Theresa takes the time to really listen and bond with her clients over shared experiences. She wants this to be a safe, empowering space for moms to feel their most beautiful, inside and out. As one happy client shared, “Tee always works so passionately to ensure her clients get the best experience and insight, and we are reaping the rewards from your efforts! Her professionalism, attention to detail, and commitment to client/patient satisfaction put me at ease throughout the entire process. I highly recommend Theresa Aqui and her staff at Vanitee.”

The Diamond Glow Plus Package at VaniTEE Skincare Studio in Chula Vista is awesome.

Even if you don’t get treatment, I love that Theresa emphasizes the importance of learning to build self-confidence. As moms, we must set a positive example for our kids and show them how to love themselves. A skin treatment may give you a boost, but true confidence comes from within.

So if you’re looking for a little self-care pick-me-up, head to VaniTEE and see what it’s all about. Theresa offers free consultations, so there’s no pressure. Feel free to share your self-esteem tips on our Instagram or Facebook page! We’re all in this together.

The 51st Bonitafest Event: A Celebration of Community, Culture, and Legacy

Chula Vista Events

Chula Vista Blog

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September 10, 2023

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The 51st Bonitafest Event: A Celebration of Community, Culture, and Legacy

The Bonitafest event is back, bringing the community together like never before! Please mark your calendars for September 23rd, when Bonitafest returns with its signature Twilight Parade and a host of creative and cultural performances by our very own residents. This year promises to be a compact yet incredibly fun-filled celebration that’s sure to make every local proud.

Twilight Parade and Street Party

Bonitafest Chairman Max Branscomb is excited about what’s in store for 2023: “Bonitafest event 2023 will be a bit more compact, but lots of fun,” he said. After the Twilight Parade, get ready for an evening street party featuring Music Machine, Sound Unlimited performances, and other talented local artists. And if that’s not enough to get you out the door, there’s also a generous book giveaway and plenty of snacks to keep everyone fueled for fun.

Be sure to follow Bonitafest on their Instagram page here. As the event approaches, they will post more about it.

Bonitafest event in Chula Vista California was a big deal — I don’t think we will ever see the days of the massive parade down Bonita Rd. like we did in 2006. The parade was a lot of fun and I always wanted to see it return to the area.

The 46th Bonitafest Melodrama: “Ms. Sweetwater Valley”

For those who love a good story, don’t miss the 46th Bonitafest Melodrama, Ms. Sweetwater Valley, running from September 27th to 30th at the Sweetwater Community Church Theater. This musical comedy, based on the true story of a titleholder with an inspiring yet controversial journey, promises to entertain and inspire. This production is a must-see. It was written by Bonitafest Melodrama Artistic Director Dr. Max Branscomb and directed by Ken Santillan. It’s not just a play—it’s a community tradition brought to life by local talent and supported by the San Diego County Community Enhancement Program.

Honoring Community Heroes: Grand Marshals and Award Recipients

This year’s Bonitafest Grand Marshals, Dr. John and Harriet Golliet-Taylor, are shining examples of dedication and service. Their leadership in community initiatives like Preserve South Bay and the Sweetwater Community Planning Group has had a lasting impact. The Bonitafest Committee couldn’t have chosen better representatives for this year’s celebration. As Chairman Branscomb noted, “They are more than pillars of the community. They are often the people propping up the pillars.”

Bonitafest event also honors Tony and Judith Tieber as this year’s hosts, recognizing their significant contributions to the community. Meanwhile, Roxanne Ronacher is this year’s Humanitarian, celebrated for her philanthropic work, and Ray Ymzon is honored as the Pioneer for his invaluable contributions and institutional memory.

Spotlight on Youth Ambassadors

Our community’s future looks bright with this year’s Youth Ambassadors, Emily Ingco, Trever Braaton, and Ella Aldridge. These young leaders are making waves in their respective fields, from journalism to the performing arts. Their accomplishments are a testament to the strength and potential of the next generation in our community.

Emily Ingco

A standout athlete and honor student at Bonita Vista High School, Emily is now the editor-in-chief of the Southwestern College Sun and a President’s List Scholar. Her achievements speak volumes about her dedication and hard work.

Trever Braaton

Trever is not just a singer, dancer, and actor—he’s a leader. As the 2023/24 assistant director of the Music Machine at Bonita Vista High School, he’s helping to revitalize the school’s Vocal Music Department.

Ella Aldridge

At just 15, Ella is already a seasoned performer with several leading roles under her belt at the San Diego School of Creative and Performing Arts. She’s a two-time finalist for the San Diego County Remarkable Teenagers award, and her future in the arts looks incredibly promising.

Join the Fun at Bonitafest Event 2023!

Whether you’re there for the parade, the performances, the Melodrama, or to soak in the community spirit, Bonitafest 2023 is an event you won’t want to miss. Come out and celebrate with us on September 23rd—there’s something for everyone, and it’s all about coming together to celebrate the best of our community. See you there Chula Vista!

Remember that we have added many Chula Vista events to our new calendar. This is perfect for those looking to get out and enjoy all these fun activities.