This year’s Downtown Chula Vista’s Taste of Third is coming up quickly on March 21, from 4-8 p.m., giving the community a chance to experience an evening of delicious bites and sips, and live music as they stroll down Third Avenue. But patrons can also meet and greet some of the participating business partners during the event.
Mmm…Cakes owner Jose Barajas is well-know for his television appearances on TLC’s “Next Great Baker,” Food Network’s “Cake Wars” and “Holiday Gingerbread Showdown.” Barajas began his career on Third Avenue, while also working at a wholesale bakery in La Mesa as a pastry sous chef. Barjas was drawn to the world of desserts at a young age, beginning his culinary career at his small at-home studio in his Chula Vista home.
Outgrowing his intimate studio, he decided to expand along with his growing clientele by taking the plunge for his brick and mortar on Third Avenue.
“Taste of Third is a wonderful way for our businesses to showcase what we have to offer. At Mmm Cakes we like to showcase our Sweet, Savory and Drinks. So, expect the full package,” said Barajas.
The Balboa South is known for “the best burgers” and owner Mariana Cardenas purchased the business during the pandemic. An executive chef in this region, Cardenas worked as a janitor for the Navy in Chula Vista, eventually working her way into the kitchen. After 16 years, she transitioned and became part of The Balboa South, who’s owner passed the torch and let her take over the restaurant.
“The walls and halls at The Balboa South are adorned with iconic and symbolic icons of our city and our neighbor south of the border, making it feel like you are at your abuelita’s house,” said Cardenas. “We strive to provide our customers with a wonderful “dining” experience or as we say, the “Chula Vista” experience. A place where your family celebrates all the special occasions of their lives from Birth to Death, with amazing food, local craft beer and music.”
Dr. Gonzalo Quintero, better known as Dr. Q, is a well-known South Bay resident, restaurateur and former local National City council member. Quintero has always been drawn to the restaurant scene, working at his family’s restaurant La Bella Pizza before deciding to open The Vogue Tavern with his partner Alan Cassel. The retro themed, European tavern with an American twist is most know for its German fare and imported European beers on draft with a friendly family atmosphere.
“This is our 5th year participating in Taste of Third. As owner operators our favorite part of this event is catching up with regulars, seeing old faces and making new friends. Often imitated but never duplicated, we are presenting a twist on our classic pretzel: Deep Dried Pretzel Bites served with mustard and beer cheese. Whether new or old, our guests will be delighted by this treat which is unique to Vogue Tavern’s menu,” said Quintero.
These are just a few of the faces and places that can be experienced attending Taste of Third. Early bird tickets are still available. Visit www.downtownchulavista.com/events/taste-of-third for more information.
