Downtown Chula Vista is home to a tight-knit community of family-owned businesses that have shaped the neighborhood for generations.
From small shops started by couples to restaurants lovingly passed down through the years, each business carries a unique story. Meet some of the families behind the storefronts that make this neighborhood feel like home.
Tony and Michael Raso | La Bella Pizza Garden
A cornerstone of Downtown Chula Vista since 1955, La Bella Pizza Garden is a living legacy of the neighborhood. Now in its third generation of family ownership, Tony Raso and his son Michael continue the tradition started by Tony’s parents, serving up beloved Italian-American dishes made from family recipes. With its classic arcade, cozy atmosphere, and decades of memories, La Bella remains a gathering spot where generations of locals come to celebrate, dine, and feel at home.
Sarah and Ramsey Iapala | Hidden Beauty & Dame Más Cafeína
Entrepreneurial couple Sarah Iapala and her husband Ramsey are building community through self-care and coffee. Sarah brings her passion for beauty and empowerment to Hidden Beauty Salon, creating a safe, inclusive space for clients to feel their best. Just next door, the two also run Dame Más Cafeína, a cozy café offering rich drinks and sweet treats that turn everyday moments into mini escapes. Together, they’ve created two welcoming spaces that celebrate authenticity, love, and local pride.
Alessio and Paulina Marquez | Galū Café
Alessio and Paulina Marquez, the husband-and-wife duo behind Galū Café, have created not just a restaurant but a heartfelt tribute to family and community. This fresh addition to Downtown Chula Vista serves up scratch-made, organic dishes infused with their culinary passion and personal story. Named after their children, Galū is a space where love for food and love for family blend seamlessly, offering locals a meaningful place to gather and enjoy thoughtfully crafted meals.
Eddie Trejo and Joann Cornejo | La Nacional
Eddie Trejo and Joann Cornejo, the team behind Machete Beer House, have brought their love for craft beer and regional Mexican cuisine to life at La Nacional. Located on Third Avenue, this vibrant cantina offers a menu full of bold flavors, from ribeye tacos to mezcal cocktails. The husband and wife have created a lively, welcoming space that celebrates culture, food, and the community they love to serve.
Timothy and Dali Parker | Chula Vista Brewery
Timothy and Dali Parker opened Chula Vista Brewery with a mission to bring quality craft beer to the South Bay. Tim, a Navy veteran and homebrewer, saw potential in a vacant downtown storefront during a morning run and turned his vision into a neighborhood staple. With Dali’s business expertise and their shared passion for hospitality, they’ve created a space where locals connect over great brews. Together, they juggle family life, military service, and business ownership—all while building community one pint at a time.
Mariana Cardenas | The Balboa South
Mariana Cardenas began her culinary journey as a janitor for the Navy and worked her way up to Executive Chef through years of dedication. During the pandemic, she took a job at The Balboa South, one of her favorite burger spots, and within months was offered the chance to take over the business. Now, alongside her husband, she runs the restaurant with the same love and commitment that shaped her career, continuing its reputation for great food and heartfelt service.
Priscilla Curiel and Fernando Covarrubias | Talavera Azul & Mujer Divina Coffee
For years, Talavera Azul has been a breakfast staple in Downtown Chula Vista, known for its vibrant atmosphere and comforting Mexican dishes that draw a loyal crowd each morning. It was in this family-owned restaurant that Priscilla Curiel’s culinary journey began, learning the ropes alongside her parents. After honing her skills and gaining formal training, she returned to her roots with her husband, Fernando Covarrubias, to open Mujer Divina Coffee. Just blocks from Talavera on Third Avenue, this new spot brings fresh energy to the neighborhood with rich coffee and hearty breakfast bites—all crafted with the same heart that built Talavera’s legacy.
Loree and Danielle Shirazi | Paw Pleasers
San Diego’s beloved pet bakery, Paw Pleasers, is powered by the passion and creativity of mother-daughter team Loree and Danielle Shirazi. Since opening in 1992, they’ve been crafting wholesome, homemade goodies for furry friends—from personalized cakes to pup-friendly ice cream—all made with top-quality ingredients. Their shared love for animals and baking shines in every treat and every customer interaction, making Paw Pleasers a longtime favorite for local pet lovers.
Karen Riggott and Sol Roque | El Primero Hotel
At the heart of Chula Vista, El Primero Hotel stands as a beautifully restored piece of San Diego history. Originally opened in the 1930s, the hotel was brought back to life through the dedication of the Roque family. After the passing of her father, Karen Riggott joined her mother, Sol Roque, in preserving this special place. Together, they’ve transformed it into more than just a historic stay—it’s now a heartfelt tribute to their family’s journey and a reflection of the community’s lasting spirit.
Philip and Rosa | Eazy Toyz
For fans of Southern California style, Eazy Toyz is a must-visit. Owned by husband-and-wife duo Philip and Rosa, this beloved shop has been a part of the community for over 15 years. Inside, you’ll find Padres merchandise—hats, shirts, jackets, and more—as well as collectibles, Funko Pops, bobbleheads, and other fun finds that reflect the laid-back energy and personality of the region.
