The District shopping center at Eastlake celebrated the grand opening of the new location of Chula Vista Brewery and Oak and Anchor. As a veteran, Black and Latino owned business, founders Timothy Parker and his wife Dalia expanded their Chula Vista Brewery business by opening a 6,460 square-foot brew house featuring an outside patio.
The space features a spacious upstairs area for private intimate reservations, and dining area with a mural painted by local artist Mr.B Baby. The restaurant seats 185 guests inside and up to 111 guests outside on the heated patio. A small performance area will allow for live entertainment.
“Chula Vista supported us to make this happen,” Timothy said. “Most importantly, I have to thank my beautiful wife who really does everything. She’s supports me and all of my crazy ideas.”
Oak and Anchor BBQ, founded by Chris Sweat has a 1,000 square foot kitchen serving wood-smoked Texas style barbecue. His partnership with Timothy began in 2017, “It’s been an honor to work with Tim. We are kind of like brothers. We argue, but we always resolve everything. That is the mark of true friendship. I’d like to commend Dalia and Tim for having faith in me,” Sweat said regarding his partnership with Chula Vista Brewery in this new venture.
The whole community, including elected officials, welcomed the award-winning brewery at their grand opening. “I'm proud of the diversity that is found in Chula Vista. This is a place where I can have meetings and events. I love it because there aren't many large spaces in Chula Vista and now this is in our neighborhood.” said leader in San Diego’s Asian American Pacific Islander community, JoAnn Fields as she congratulated the business on their expansion.
“It’s really special doing something like this coming out of a pandemic because it’s been such a tough time for everybody,” Port Commissioner Rafael Castellanos said. “This is an incredible story that we should really celebrate. I look forward to having another one of these at the Chula Vista Bayfront.”
Congresswoman Sarah Jacobs reminded those in attendance the importance of supporting small businesses during the pandemic. Jacobs cited the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act, which passed recently and expanded the Minority Business Development Agency, a federal agency supporting minority owned businesses across the county. “We are creating new jobs, entrepreneurship, and community spaces. I’m excited to be here with you all,” Jacobs said.
The Brewers Association presented Chula Vista Brewery with a bronze medal at the 2019 Great American Beer Festival, it was recognized in the American Brown Ale beer-style (Category 76) for its Browner Than Ivan brown ale.
“This has been a long process and we are so grateful to be here,” Dalia said. “We couldn't be here without everyone who had our back by enjoying the great beer.” Their original brewery on Third Avenue draws crowds on the weekends when at times has standing room only.
