New Third Avenue Restaurant La Nacional Adds Traditional Mexican Fare to Downtown Chula Vista

Downtown Chula Vista's restaurant scene gained another entry last month with the opening of La Nacional, a Mexican restaurant and bar at 279 Third Avenue. The neighborhood has seen new eateries arrive throughout the year, and the latest addition focuses on traditional dishes and drinks.

The restaurant comes from the team behind Machete Beer House, a well-known National City establishment. La Nacional opened in October 2023 after several years of anticipation. It is owned by married couple Eddie Trejo and Joann Cornejo, who selected downtown Chula Vista because of its lively dining scene and sense of community.

Trejo said the area has changed noticeably in recent years. "We've seen downtown Chula Vista transform into a thriving culinary destination over the past few years," he said. He described La Nacional as a passion project intended to offer authentic Mexican flavors, from spirits and beer to scratch-made comida.

The owners want the restaurant to serve as a family-friendly neighborhood gathering place for Chula Vista residents. Executive Chef Alvaro Hernandez designed the menu, which includes classic Mexican appetizers, tacos and side dishes, along with a brunch offering on weekends.

Saturday and Sunday brunch features breakfast burritos, angus beef birria and chilaquiles, among other items. The taco selection spans carne asada, carnitas, pescado and camarones.

Drinks include Mexican spirits and craft beers, as well as micheladas and margaritas. Lead bartender Felipe "Pipo" Lopez is responsible for the cocktail menu.

Hernandez, who was born in Mexico, said he is eager to introduce his culture's traditional plates to the Chula Vista community. "I take pride in using authentic ingredients and time-honored cooking techniques for incredible depth of flavor," he said.

Inside, the small dining room is decorated in a traditional style, with vibrant colors and festive lighting meant to evoke Mexico. The restaurant has said patio dining is expected to become available soon.

With more restaurants continuing to open in the downtown area, La Nacional adds a Mexican option to Third Avenue as the district's dining offerings keep growing.