New Year, New Businesses in Downtown Chula Vista

Embracing the new year means embracing new beginnings, including the arrival of new businesses. Downtown Chula Vista has several fresh faces joining the South Bay neighborhood…drop in and show them your support!

El Cholo’s Kid

What started out as an online store in 2008, has now become a beloved staple brand and the latest addition to the neighborhood! El Cholo’s Kid offers artisan-made bags that blend timeless traditions and a modern aesthetic that is both stylish and functional.

Each bag is hand-made by skilled artisans in Mexico who transform recycled plastic using traditional techniques into real works of art. If you’re in the market for a vibrant and bold eco-friendly bag for yourself or a loved one, stop by El Cholo’s Kid!

Mujer Divina Coffee and Tuetano Taco Shop

It’s a two-for-one special! Not only is Downtown Chula Vista welcoming a delicious taco shop, but a beloved coffee shop too. Owner and Chef Priscilla Curiel will be embarking on a new chapter in her restauranteur journey by bringing Mujer Divina Coffee Shop and Tuétano Taqueria to the South Bay neighborhood.

Experience a grab-and-go style coffee shop where you can sip and savor more than 21 offerings rich in flavor and quality.

If you’re also looking for a bite, pair your drink with one of their various burritos on the menu. The taqueria will offer counter service with ample room to enjoy a sit-down meal, featuring a menu that specializes in Birria, but will also offer the classics that taste just like a home-cooked meal!

La Nacional

Recently landing on the bustling stretch of Third Avenue, founders of Machete Beer House, Eddie Trejo and Joann Cornejo, launched their long-awaited second project, La Nacional.

A modern take on a Mexican Cantina, La Nacional is centered around classic libations with a Mexican twist and an Oaxacan-style menu that offers mouthwatering options. From ribeye tacos to mezcal Negronis, La Nacional is a great place for a quick bite or a fun time with friends!

Kalaveras

If you’re looking for a fun time, Kalaveras should be your next stop! You’re immediately greeted with vibrant colors, art, music, and culture of a time-honored tradition—a Dia de los Muertos celebration.

Enjoy classic and unique cocktails complemented by fresh ingredients and homemade syrups. Along with indulging libations, the culinary menu honors traditional Mexican and Latin American cuisine with a modern Kalaveras twist!

Spoon House

Though only opening a year ago, Spoon House has captivated the palates and attention of South Bay locals. Specializing in Korean cuisine, Spoon House blends classic Korean flavors with an enticing twist that leaves your taste buds craving more.

From crowd favorites like Beef Bibimbap to tried-and-true classics like the Beef Bulgogi Plate, the restaurant has something for everyone. Along with a diverse menu, you can pair their tasty meals with teas or beer, or enjoy a drink from the full bar. Don’t miss the chance to discover this culinary gem!

Lime in the Coconut

Since opening in 2022, Lime in the Coconut has been serving refreshing cocktails, mouthwatering meals, and a good time for all who walk in! This vibrant restaurant brings the flavors of the islands to the South Bay neighborhood, offering a fusion of Filipino, Japanese, Hawaiian, and Vietnamese cuisines.

Indulge in the mouthwatering menu options such as the Puppu Plater, Huli Huli Chicken, or a delicious batch of Fish and Chips. And each beachy cocktail is made with fresh, hand-pressed juices and the finest rums, tequilas, gins, and liqueurs. Transport yourself to a relaxing getaway in the heart of Chula Vista!

Paw Pleasers

Recently opening their Chula Vista location, Paw Pleasers is the only bakery in San Diego to make all their freshly baked cakes, cookies, ice cream, and other wonderful desserts for your pets on-site daily since opening their doors 30 years ago.

Each tasty treat is made grain-free and human-grade, perfect for your dog or cat! Aside from freshly baked goods, Paw Pleasers also has high-quality toys, puzzles, and supplies to keep your pet as happy as possible.

See you there!

Downtown Chula Vista continues to thrive with an array of new businesses, from restaurants to shops and bakeries. There’s something for everyone to enjoy in this vibrant, growing community. We encourage you to explore these fresh destinations and support local businesses!

To keep yourself in the loop, follow Downtown Chula Vista on social media: Facebook, Instagram, Tiktok, X. More info can be found on the website here.

See you there, San Diego!

Share This Post
The Latest
Little Italy Food Hall reimagined
Big things are coming to the Piazza della Famiglia, with the Little Italy Food Hall reimagined as a vibrant, multi-concept dining venue launching Fall 2025....
Gaylord Pacific Resort & Convention Center
There’s a new reason to head south this summer: the long-awaited Gaylord Pacific Resort & Convention Center officially opened its doors today in Chula Vista—and...
Navy's Bay Bridge Run Walk
Ready to hit the bridge for one of San Diego’s most unique and breathtaking races? The Navy’s 38th Annual Bay Bridge Run/Walk is returning—and this...
Escondido Street Festival
Get ready, San Diego—the Escondido Street Festival is back and ready to take over Historic Downtown Escondido with a full day of shopping, live music,...
San Diego Crawfish Boil
Get ready to pinch, peel, and party—because the San Diego Crawfish Boil is back and bigger than ever! Presented by the LSU Alumni of San...
The bats are coming out and the taps are turning on—Over the Line Beer Fest & Tournament is back for its 9th year, and it’s...
Recently Featured Restaurants
A new fire has lit up Little Italy—Piedra Santa, an Argentinian-inspired steakhouse, is now open and bringing the bold, smoky tradition of open-flame grilling to...
Dora, a vibrant new Southern Italian restaurant from the husband-and-wife team behind Cori Trattoria, is set to open in La Jolla’s Theater District this fall—and...
There’s a breezy new addition to Little Italy’s dining scene! Brisa, an island vibes and Latin-Japanese fusion restaurant, is now open at the corner of...
Downtown La Mesa has a delicious new addition—Tour de Tapas, a restaurant offering Euro small plates and sips inspired by the culinary traditions of Spain,...
Tajima Crown Point is the latest addition to San Diego’s beloved ramen scene, officially opened on December 14 at 3782 Ingraham Street. Known for its...
Wildland in Carlsbad Village is officially opening its doors, bringing rustic cuisine and coastal-inspired dining to North County. This all-day restaurant, bar, and bakery from...