Known for its beautiful bayside parks, fascinating attractions, and close proximity to San Diego, Chula Vista is a wonderful place to visit in Southern California. While the city offers plenty of family-friendly activities and scenic natural sites, one of the best parts of visiting Chula Vista is experiencing its diverse dining scene.
| Restaurant Name | Cuisine/Highlight |
|---|---|
| Cenario’s | Fine dining with bay views |
| The Brigantine | Fresh seafood, waterfront setting |
| Fred’s Mexican Cafe | Lively Mexican cuisine |
| The Jungle Café | Unique dining in tropical environment |
| La Bella Pizza Garden | Wood-fired pizzas in garden setting |
| The Landing by Chef JoJo | Contemporary California cuisine |
| Oceana Coastal Kitchen | Sustainably sourced seafood |
| Norte Gourmet Taqueria | Gourmet Baja-style tacos |
| Le Fontainebleau | Contemporary French cuisine |
| La Bodega Tapas Bar | Spanish tapas |
| Park 101 | Al fresco dining with local ingredients |
| Swell Coffee Co. | Coffee and fresh breakfast/lunch |
From upscale bayside dining to authentic Mexican food to chic cafes, there are many excellent restaurants to try in Chula Vista. Here are the top 12 best restaurants that should be on your must-dine list when visiting.
Cenario’s
Name and Location:
Cenario’s Chula Vista is presumably a restaurant or entertainment venue located in Chula Vista, a city in the southern part of San Diego County, California. The exact address would depend on the specific establishment.
History and Significance:
Without specific details about Cenario’s Chula Vista, it’s challenging to provide its history and significance. Typically, such establishments might be known for their contribution to the local dining or entertainment scene, possibly holding a special place in the community for their unique offerings or historical value.
What to Expect:
Visitors to Cenario’s Chula Vista can likely expect a specific type of dining or entertainment experience, depending on the nature of the venue. This could range from a unique culinary experience with a signature menu to various forms of entertainment such as live music, performances, or themed nights.
Visitor Information:
For visitors planning to go to Cenario’s Chula Vista, it’s advisable to check for opening hours, dress code (if any), and whether reservations are needed. If it’s a dining establishment, checking the menu in advance for dietary preferences might be beneficial. It’s also good to look into parking availability and accessibility options.
For a fine dining experience with stunning bay views, Cenario’s at the La Venta Inn is a top choice. This elegant restaurant serves up sophisticated California cuisine complemented by an extensive wine list. Appetizers like the ahi tuna tartare and creamy burrata salad are ideal starters. Mains range from pistachio-crusted scallops to pan-roasted duck breast to filet mignon with blue cheese butter.
Save room for desserts like the warm chocolate cake with ice cream. Dim mood lighting and floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking San Diego Bay create a romantic ambiance. With its waterfront location, formal atmosphere, and incredible food, Cenario’s is perfect for celebrating a special occasion.
The Brigantine
Name and Location: The Brigantine is a seafood restaurant located in San Diego, California. It has several locations across San Diego County.
History and Significance: The Brigantine was founded in 1969 and is one of San Diego’s most well-known and iconic seafood restaurants. It started as a small fish market in Point Loma before expanding into a full-service restaurant. The Brigantine is considered a San Diego institution and has been serving fresh local seafood for over 50 years.
What to Expect: The Brigantine is known for its fresh fish, oysters, award-winning clam chowder, and relaxed California coastal vibe. Guests can expect super fresh seafood, excellent service, a lively atmosphere, and reasonable prices. The restaurants often have patios with views of the water.
Visitor Information: Reservations are recommended, especially for patio seating. Complimentary valet parking is offered at most locations. Dress is casual.
Known for its fresh seafood and relaxed yet upscale waterfront setting, The Brigantine is a local favorite dinner spot. Guests can watch the boats sail by through the restaurant’s floor-to-ceiling windows or enjoy the ocean breeze on the outside patio. The diverse menu includes fish prepared several ways such as grilled, blackened, or pan fried.
Signature options include Parmesan crusted calamari, coconut shrimp, and macadamia nut halibut. They also serve steaks, chicken, salads, and select vegetarian dishes. With its combination of scenic views and expertly prepared seafood, The Brigantine is a top choice for a nice dinner out.
Fred’s Mexican Cafe
Name and Location: Fred’s Mexican Cafe is a small local chain with locations across San Diego County, including Old Town, La Jolla, Del Mar, and Encinitas.
History and Significance: Fred’s Mexican Cafe was founded in Old Town in 1980 by Fred and Lucy Anzaldua. It started as a small take-out cafe before expanding into multiple sit-down locations. Fred’s is known for its authentic Baja-style Mexican food using family recipes.
What to Expect: The atmosphere is colorful and casual with traditional decor. Guests can expect large portions of Mexican favorites like tacos, burritos, enchiladas, fajitas, and margaritas in a lively environment. Fred’s is popular for breakfast.
Visitor Information: Reservations aren’t usually needed. Free parking is available at most locations. Prices are budget-friendly.
In the mood for delicious Mexican food in a lively yet family-friendly setting? Head to Fred’s Mexican Cafe, a local favorite for three generations. This vibrant restaurant serves up all the traditional favorites like enchiladas, burritos, tacos, fajitas, and more. Unique specialties include dishes like tamales in pineapple sauce and chili verde burritos.
The deep menu has something for everyone, from classic shredded beef chimichangas to healthy veggie options. Generous portions, friendly service, and specials like Taco Tuesdays add to the appeal. With its festive decor, strong margaritas, and big portions, Fred’s makes every meal feel like a fiesta.
The Jungle Café
Name and Location: The Jungle Café is located in the San Diego Zoo inside the Lost Forest exhibit.
History and Significance: The Jungle Café opened in 2009 and was designed to replicate the experience of dining inside a tropical jungle. The award-winning restaurant offers unique cuisine with an exotic flair surrounded by lush botanical gardens.
What to Expect: The Jungle Café serves international fusion dishes with plenty of vegetarian and vegan options. Guests dine next to waterfalls and tropical plants. The food presentation is artistic. It’s a popular spot for both visitors and locals.
Visitor Information: The Jungle Café is open daily for lunch and does not accept reservations. Admission to the San Diego Zoo is required. Prices are moderate.
For a unique dining adventure unlike anywhere else in San Diego County, head to The Jungle Café. This quirky restaurant tucked away in San Diego Wildlife Reserve thrusts diners into an immersive tropical rainforest environment.
Shimmering brooks, lush vegetation, and cascading waterfalls surround each dining area for an exotic feel. The diverse menu ranges from jungle-themed sushi rolls to Brazilian seafood stew to grilled wild boar chops. With its jungle vibes, strong cocktails, and international cuisine, The Jungle Café offers patrons an unforgettable dining experience.
La Bella Pizza Garden
Name and Location: La Bella Pizza Garden is an Italian restaurant located in the Little Italy neighborhood of downtown San Diego.
History and Significance: Opened in 1992, La Bella Pizza Garden pioneered the idea of casual upscale dining in Little Italy. Its beautiful garden patio quickly became a go-to local spot for authentic thin-crust pizza, pastas, and salads using fresh ingredients.
What to Expect: La Bella Pizza Garden offers a charming Italian patio setting with top-notch food, an extensive wine list, and attentive service. Guests can enjoy wood-fired pizzas, housemade pastas, grilled meats, and seafood.
Visitor Information: Reservations are recommended, especially for patio seating. Street parking can be difficult, so try their valet service. Pricing is moderate with nightly early evening specials.
For authentic wood-fired pizzas in a laidback garden setting, check out La Bella Pizza Garden. This relaxed pizzeria serves handcrafted thin-crust pies freshly baked in an open flame oven using natural ingredients. Toppings range from pepperoni and sausage to white pizzas with ricotta and truffle oil. Head to the garden bar to create the perfect salad to pair with your pizza.
The restaurant also offers a full bar plus a nice selection of beers and wines. With its charming picnic tables, bocce ball court, and delicious artisanal pizzas, La Bella Pizza Garden is a great pick for casual dining with friends or family.
The Landing by Chef JoJo
Name and Location: The Landing by Chef JoJo is a contemporary American restaurant located on Shelter Island in Point Loma.
History and Significance: Open since 2018, The Landing was opened by San Diego celebrity chef JoJo Ruiz and offers locally sourced California cuisine and breathtaking bay views.
What to Expect: Upscale yet casual dining focused on quality ingredients and technique. The menu includes a raw bar, shared plates, grilled meats and seafood. Signature cocktails, extensive wine list.
Visitor Information: Reservations recommended, especially for patio seating overlooking the water. Valet parking available. Cocktail attire is appropriate. Pricing is upscale.
Located on the Chula Vista marina, The Landing by Chef JoJo offers contemporary California cuisine with waterfront views. The airy, modern space has an outdoor patio overlooking the harbor. Start with tasty small plates like ahi tuna poke nachos or lobster corn fritters before moving on to creative entrees like pistachio pesto gnocchi and truffle sea bass.
An extensive wine list from California vineyards pairs nicely. Save room for the Valrhona lava cake with ice cream. With Chef JoJo’s innovative dishes, stylish ambiance, and harbor setting, The Landing is one of Chula Vista’s top picks for fine dining.
Oceana Coastal Kitchen
Name and Location: Oceana Coastal Kitchen is located inside the Catamaran Resort Hotel on Mission Bay.
History and Significance: Open since 2008, Oceana Coastal Kitchen embraces fresh sustainable seafood and local ingredients. Its oceanside location offers amazing views.
What to Expect: The menu focuses on seafood with Mediterranean and Asian influences. There is an oyster bar, ceviches, shared plates highlighting seasonal produce. The atmosphere is upscale yet relaxed.
Visitor Information: Reservations recommended with validated parking. Resort casual attire. Cocktails and an extensive wine list complement the menu. Pricing is moderate to upscale.
For California coastal cuisine made from sustainably sourced seafood and produce, check out Oceana Coastal Kitchen. This laidback yet refined eatery crafts dishes that let the flavor of quality ingredients shine. Highlights include the day’s ocean-fresh fish prepared simply on a wood-fired grill. You’ll also find tacos, salads, bowls, and sandwiches showcasing fresh veggies and proteins like ahi tuna and grilled chicken.
The restaurant supports local farms and purveyors while sourcing seafood following best sustainability practices. With its ethos of supporting local and sustainable food sources, Oceana Coastal Kitchen is perfect for conscientious diners.
Norte Gourmet Taqueria
Name and Location: Norte is a popular taqueria located in North Park, the trendy arts and food district of San Diego.
History and Significance: Opened in 2008, Norte brought high-quality gourmet tacos and modern Mexican street food to North Park before the neighborhood’s dining scene took off.
What to Expect: Creative tacos, burritos, quesadillas with fillings like ahi tuna, chicken mole, carne asada. Vibrant, artsy decor with indoor and outdoor patio seating. Lively atmosphere.
Visitor Information: Reservations not accepted. Street parking can be difficult during peak times. Moderate pricing, cash only. Breakfast and lunch daily.
For incredible tacos in a casual setting, visit Norte Gourmet Taqueria located downtown. This taqueria puts a gourmet twist on classic Baja-style tacos, offering fillings like beer-battered mahi mahi, cilantro-lime shrimp, carne asada, and crisp pork belly.
Tacos are topped with onions, cilantro, and their signature creamy cilantro dressing. Meatless options include fried avocado and roasted mushroom tacos. Other menu highlights include burritos, quesadillas, tortas, and nachos. Just a short walk from Third Avenue Village, this taqueria’s vibe is lively yet relaxed—perfect for enjoying Baja tacos and aguas frescas with friends.
Le Fontainebleau
Name and Location: Le Fontainebleau is a French restaurant located in the Crown Point neighborhood of Pacific Beach.
History and Significance: Open since 1985, Le Fontainebleau offers classic French cuisine in an intimate setting. Zagat rated with multiple awards. Frequented by locals for a romantic evening out.
What to Expect: Elegant French-inspired interior, exceptional service, seasonal menu of French classics like escargot, soupe à l’oignon, coq au vin, crème brûlée. Extensive French wine list.
Visitor Information: Dinner reservations strongly recommended. Valet parking available. Jackets required for men, cocktail attire for women. Expensive pricing but special occasion worthy.
For an elegantly appointed restaurant with contemporary French cuisine, make a reservation at Le Fontainebleau. Highlights from the frequently changing menu include escargots in parsley-garlic butter, sea scallops in champagne sauce, and duck breast with blueberry demi-glace.
You’ll feel transported to Europe with the live piano music, formally attired servers, and upscale decor. With its refined ambiance, attentive service, and deftly prepared French cuisine, Le Fontainebleau offers one of Chula Vista’s finest dining experiences.
La Bodega Tapas Bar
Name and Location: La Bodega is a Spanish tapas restaurant and wine bar located in the Gaslamp Quarter downtown.
History and Significance: Opened in 1999, La Bodega brings authentic Spanish tapas dining and culture to San Diego’s historic Gaslamp neighborhood. Zagat rated as a long-standing destination for tapas.
What to Expect: Traditional tapas like chorizo, gambas al ajillo.
Experience a taste of Spain at La Bodega Tapas Bar, a cozy restaurant specializing in small plates meant for sharing. Tapas options range from patatas bravas and charcuterie boards to fried squid and shrimp with garlic.
Heartier raciones include paella loaded with seafood, braised oxtail, and enormous meatballs in tomato sauce. An extensive wine and sherry list helps transport diners to Barcelona. Between the warm atmosphere with flickering candles, stellar Spanish vintages, and creatively prepared tapas, La Bodega makes a perfect date night.
Park 101
Name and Location: Park 101 is located inside Seaport Village, the popular outdoor shopping and dining destination in downtown San Diego.
History and Significance: Open since 2013, Park 101 offers al fresco waterfront dining with unparalleled views of San Diego Bay. The restaurant features globally inspired cuisine by acclaimed Chef David Spatafore.
What to Expect: Shared plates, fresh seafood, steaks, specialty cocktails. Relaxed yet upscale atmosphere adjacent to pedestrian boardwalks. Popular scenic spot for drinks and dining.
Visitor Information: Reservations recommended for patio seating. Validated parking available. Resort or business casual attire. Prices range moderate to expensive.
Located within the Otay Ranch Town Center outdoor mall, Park 101 offers al fresco dining with a view of the scenic walking paths. This modern restaurant prepares tasty dishes showcasing local, organic ingredients. Menu highlights include burrata salad, wild mushroom pizza with truffle oil, pan-seared day boat scallops, and ancho-marinated filet mignon.
The restaurant also offers weekend brunch complete with bottomless mimosas. With its serene outdoor setting, farm-fresh California cuisine, and unique mimosa brunch, Park 101 is a great option for daytime or evening dining.
Swell Coffee Co.
Name and Location: Swell Coffee Co. has two locations in San Diego – Downtown and Ocean Beach.
History and Significance: Founded in 2013, Swell Coffee is an independent local coffee roastery known for direct trade organic coffee and teas. They source unique coffees and feature rotating single origin beans.
What to Expect: Relaxed, modern coffeehouse vibe. Artisanal espresso and coffee drinks, pastries baked in-house, light breakfast and lunch fare. Outdoor seating available.
Visitor Information: No reservations needed. Street parking available. Prices are moderate. Open daily. Well-suited for remote work with free WiFi.
For incredible coffee drinks and fresh, locally sourced breakfast and lunch fare, check out Swell Coffee Co. This chic but casual café uses beans roasted right here in San Diego to craft espresso drinks, cold brews, and pour-overs. Food choices include avocado toast, breakfast sandwiches, acai bowls, and freshly made salads and sandwiches for lunch.
The bright, modern space filled with wood accents and indoor greenery creates a relaxing vibe. Try one of their cookies or banana bread slices for a sweet afternoon treat. With its laidback atmosphere, stellar coffee, and delicious fresh food, Swell Coffee Co. is a must-visit.
Conclusion
From gourmet takes on Mexican food to fine dining with water views to intimate cafes, Chula Vista offers an array of excellent dining choices.
Foodies can immerse themselves in the city’s exciting and varied restaurant scene. When visiting Chula Vista, be sure to check out these top local eateries serving creative cuisine in inviting settings. Your tastebuds will thank you!