Taste your way through the shops and eateries on Third Avenue in Chula Vista. (Courtesy Downtown Chula Vista Association)
From celebrating Women’s History Month and embracing healthy habits for National Nutrition Month to cheering on your favorite teams during March Madness and MLB Opening Day, there are so many ways to experience something new in Downtown Chula Vista this month.
Downtown Chula Vista is the proud home of an expanding community of women-owned businesses and female leaders who help shape the neighborhood’s culture. This Women’s History Month, take time to support and celebrate the local women making an impact.
Sarah Iapala, owner of Hidden Beauty Salon, continues to foster an inclusive space for confidence-boosting beauty services. Her commitment to uplifting the community through thoughtful service has made her salon a staple in the community.
Creativity thrives at Craft on Third, founded by Chula Vista native Kathryn Ortega. Inspired by art spaces in the Bay Area, Kathryn opened her studio to provide a space for people of all ages and skill levels to craft, connect, and explore their artistic side in a community-focused environment.
The neighborhood’s food scene is fundamentally shaped by women entrepreneurs. The Balboa South is led by Mariana Cardenas, whose mouthwatering flavors and fun events have made the restaurant a standout along Third Avenue. Nearby, La Concha Bakery, owned by Claudia Hernandez, keeps locals coming back with traditional Mexican baked goods made with love.
Priscilla Curiel continues the culinary journey she began at her family’s restaurant, Talavera Azul, now expanded through her own concepts Mujer Divina Burrito & Coffee House and Mujer Divina Brunch Cafe. Her approach blends culture, hospitality, and community through thoughtfully crafted food and drinks.
For milestone celebrations, Lili’s Creations is a women-owned specialty shop offering quinceañera gowns, tuxedo rentals, and formalwear for life’s most memorable moments, serving generations of families in the South Bay.
Pet lovers can head over to Paw Pleasers, founded by mother-daughter duo Loree and Daniell Shirazi. Since 1992, they have been baking fresh, healthy treats for pets daily, turning their love for animals into a downtown destination.
El Primero Hotel, a historic downtown landmark preserved by Karen Roque and her family, is another example of women shaping the neighborhood’s small business community. Following her father’s passing, Karen continues to honor his legacy by maintaining this 1930s gem, offering visitors a staycation experience rooted in local history.
Fuel Up for National Nutrition Month
March also marks National Nutrition Month, making it the perfect time to refresh routines and focus on balanced living. The Nutrition Place offers healthy shakes and energizing teas to fuel individual wellness goals, while TG Cafe, located within The Gym Chula Vista, offers caffeinated drinks and protein shakes for a pre-, mid-, or post-workout boost. Fitness enthusiasts can stock up on performance essentials at Ultimate Sports Nutrition Shop and Pro Body Warehouse, both offering a varied selection of supplements and wellness products designed to support strength, recovery, and everyday health.
Where to Watch the Big Games
As March Madness heats up and MLB Opening Day approaches, Downtown Chula Vista is a go-to destination for sports fans looking to watch the action. The district’s sports bars and breweries offer plenty of screens, great food, and exciting atmospheres perfect for cheering on your favorite teams.
Grab a pint at Chula Vista Brewery, a local favorite known for its craft beers and relaxed, community-centered vibe, or head to 3 Punk Ales Brewing Co. for bold brews and a high-energy setting ideal for game day. Groundswell Brew Tasting Room offers another great option for catching the action while enjoying craft beer in a laid-back environment.
For a classic bar experience, Dock’s Cocktail Lounge provides a welcoming spot to settle in with friends, while Bar Sin Nombre delivers a more modern, fun, and casual atmosphere to enjoy every sports moment.
Taste Your Way Through Third Avenue
Downtown Chula Vista’s most beloved foodie celebration is back! Taste of Third returns on Thursday, March 19 from 4 p.m. to 8 p.m., inviting guests to stroll Third Avenue and sample the best flavors the neighborhood has to offer. With a special Taste of Third Passport in hand, attendees can explore an eclectic mix of restaurants, cafes, breweries, and eateries.
Early bird tickets are available now for $47.50. Once sold out, general sale tickets will become available for $53.50. For more information on this year’s Taste of Third, visit TasteofThirdCV.com.
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