Josh Whitehead / The SWC Sun
‘SAFE, WALKABLE AND FUN’—Third Avenue is quite literally an all-ages draw. Seniors from Congregational Towers, Southwestern College students and families stream into the cozy 125-year-old street for craft beer, an array of food offerings and international desserts.
By Angel Gonzalez
Third Avenue is back.
Chula Vista’s historical business district fell on hard times during the last part of the 20th century but is reborn in the 21st. Taste of Third, a popular annual restaurant sampler, showed just how far the venerable thoroughfare has come from its days as a World War II watering hole for sailors.
Families and foodies filled Memorial Park and gathered their instruments of Mass Consumption, a magical green sampling spork. The humble piece of cutlery unleashed sublime tastes and textures from an array of diverse cultures and kitchens.
Farmer’s Table spooned out delicious Penna Alla Vodka Pasta that was intoxicating only in tastiness. Silver Dollar Saloon poured refreshing Watermelon Margaritas that were a sip of summertime. Dog-friendly Third Avenue had a pack of pets at the event and Original Paw Pleasers was ready with doggie treats that set tails in motion.
Balboa South returned for its fifth year and Dame Mas Cafeina made its Taste of Third debut. Ramsey Iapala, owner of Dame Mas Cafeina, said he hoped the event would introduce potential customers to his establishment.
“We’ve been here (on Third Avenue) for three years where people walk by us,” he said. “This event seems like a nice way to engage with the community and let people know we are here.”
Mariana Cardenas of Balboa South said the event helps to lure diners from other parts of San Diego County.
“A lot of people are trying our food for the first time tonight and we all hope we are able to make a good impression,” she said.
Third Avenue has more that just great food. It has become a music hot spot and a place to hang out on weekends. Its fans are a surprising mix of ages and cultures. Senor citizens and college students blend at restaurants, breweries and shops. Their dogs, too.
Taste of Third wound down gradually as the night life geared up. Green sporks gave way to dancing, karaoke and nightcaps. The avenue that refused to die is back like never before.
