Local Restaurants
Whether you’re looking for a quick bite between conference sessions or a place to connect with colleagues after a full day, this guide highlights some of the best local dining in Chula Vista. We’ve curated a variety of favorites just a short drive away—from classic American comfort food and authentic Italian kitchens to vibrant Mexican flavors and traditional Thai restaurants. You’ll also find plenty of vegetarian and vegan-friendly options, along with local dessert spots perfect for a sweet finish to the day.
PLEASE NOTE: Restaurant hours and happy hour times are subject to change. We recommend confirming directly with the restaurant or visiting its website before heading out.
American
The Balboa South
Local favorite for burgers and cold beer in a relaxed setting.
📍 290 3rd Ave., Chula Vista, CA 91910
🚗 9-minute drive
🕒 Closed Monday | Tues–Thurs 3pm–9pm | Fri–Sat 11:30am–10pm | Sun 11:30am–8pm
BJ’s Restaurant & Brewhouse
Family-friendly chain serving classic pub fare alongside house-brewed beers.
📍 555 Broadway, Suite 1019, Chula Vista, CA 91910
🚗 8-minute drive
🕒 Daily 11am–12am
🍻 Happy Hour: Mon-Fri 3pm–7pm | Sun-Thurs 9pm–11pm
Yard House
Upscale sports bar with an expansive New American menu and one of the largest draft beer selections around.
📍 2015 Birch Road, Suite 803, Chula Vista, CA 91915
🚗 30-minute drive
🕒 Mon–Sat 11am–12am | Sun 10am–12am
🍻 Happy Hour: 3–6pm & 10pm–12am
Italian
Little Italy Ristorante
Family-owned restaurant serving classic Italian dishes made with fresh ingredients.
📍 349 Broadway, Chula Vista, CA 91910
🚗 5-minute drive
🕒 Daily 11am–12am
Italianissimo Trattoria
Charming neighborhood eatery offering familiar Italian favorites and a strong wine selection.
📍 323 3rd Ave., Chula Vista, CA 91910
🚗 11-minute drive
🕒 Mon–Tues 11am–8:30pm | Wed–Thurs 11am–9pm | Fri–Sat 11am–9:30pm | Sun 12pm–8:30pm
Acqua e Farina
Watch pasta being made in-house daily while enjoying thoughtfully prepared Italian dishes.
📍 330 F St., Unit B, Chula Vista, CA 91910
🚗 7-minute drive
🕒 Tues–Thurs 4–9pm | Fri–Sat 4–10pm | Sun 4–9pm
Mexican
El Pastor del Rica
Guadalajara-style Mexican fare served for lunch and dinner. Note: does not accept reservations.
📍 645 Broadway, Chula Vista, CA 91910
🚗 7-minute drive
🕒 Mon–Thurs & Sun 10am–12am | Fri–Sat 10am–1am
El Patio
Established, family-friendly restaurant offering a broad menu of Mexican classics plus breakfast options.
📍 410 Broadway, Chula Vista, CA 91910
🚗 6-minute drive
🕒 Closed Monday | Tues–Thurs 8am–8:30pm | Fri–Sun 8am–9pm
Tacos El Franc
Popular taco spot offering a range of traditional Mexican options in a laid-back setting.
📍 3030 Plaza Bonita Rd #2075, National City, CA 91950
🚗 11-minute drive
🕒 Mon–Thurs 11am–10pm | Fri–Sat 11am–11pm | Sun 11am–8pm
Tacos El Gordo
Casual counter-serve spot known for Tijuana-style tacos, mulas and other street food favorites.
📍 556 Broadway, Chula Vista, CA 91910
🚗 7-minute drive
🕒 Mon–Thurs 10am–2am | Fri–Sat 10am–4am
Thai
Krua Thai Chula Vista
Comfortable neighborhood spot serving traditional Thai favorites for dine-in or takeout.
📍 686 Broadway, Chula Vista, CA 91910
🚗 8-minute drive
🕒 Mon–Fri 11am–3pm & 4–9pm | Sat–Sun 12–3pm & 4–9pm
Thai Bistro
Casual restaurant featuring curries, Pad Thai, and other traditional Thai staples.
📍 1067 Broadway, Chula Vista, CA 91911
🚗 11-minute drive
🕒 Daily 11am–8pm
Palm Thai Café
Shopping center café offering classic Thai dishes including Pad Thai and drunken noodles.
📍 4370 Palm Ave., San Diego, CA 92154
🚗 13-minute drive
🕒 Daily 11am–9pm
Vegetarian & Vegan
Happy Life Organics Veggie Deli
Health-focused deli offering vegan and vegetarian fare, smoothies and holistic products.
📍 1215 Broadway, Suite E, Chula Vista, CA 91911
🚗 10-minute drive
🕒 Closed Sun | Mon-Sat 10am–7:30pm
Lime in the Coconut
Island-inspired restaurant and speakeasy in Downtown Chula Vista featuring tropical cocktails and a fusion menu blending Japanese, Vietnamese and Hawaiian flavors.
📍 248 Third Ave., Chula Vista, CA 91910
🚗 9-minute drive
🕒 Closed Mon–Wed | Thurs 5–10pm | Fri–Sat 3pm–12am | Sun 2–9pm
Himalayan House Restaurant
Casual restaurant serving Indian, Nepalese and Tibetan dishes, with a variety of vegetarian options.
📍 201 Broadway, Suite 102, Chula Vista, CA 91910
🚗 6-minute drive
🕒 Daily 11am–9pm
Dessert
Don Munchies SD
Locally loved snack shop offering Mexican treats and ice cream in a vibrant setting.
📍 220 Broadway, Chula Vista, CA 91910
🚗 7-minute drive
🕒 Daily 11am–9pm
Yummy Spoon
Family-friendly frozen yogurt shop with a variety of flavors and toppings.
📍 20 3rd Ave., Suite 202, Chula Vista, CA 91910
🚗 10-minute drive
🕒 Mon–Sat 12–9pm | Sun 12–8pm
Starbread Bakery
Popular bakery known for its signature Señorita bread, donuts and malasadas.
📍 520 Broadway, Chula Vista, CA 91910
🚗 7-minute drive
🕒 Daily 6am–6pm
La Concha Bakery
Neighborhood bakery offering freshly baked breads made from multi-generational family recipes.
📍 334 E St., Chula Vista, CA 91910
🚗 9-minute drive
🕒 Daily 7am–8:30pm
Carnival Candies & Ice Cream Inc.
Family-friendly shop featuring Mexican and American sweets in a nostalgic setting.
📍 1021 Coolidge Ave., National City, CA 91950
🚗 6-minute drive
🕒 Daily 8am–6pm
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