The Vintage & Handmade Market Café La Maze
1441 Highland Ave., National City619-474-3222
With a long, fascinating history, Café La Maze is a steakhouse as well as a tribute to old Hollywood. The red-vinyl booths plus classic portraits and art adorning the walls make you feel like you’ve stepped onto the set of a 1940s film.
Dock’s
317 Third Ave., Chula Vista619-422-1566
With cheap drinks, friendly barmaids and South Bay’s longest running karaoke night, you just can’t go wrong in this haunt. Best part is that if all those Selena jams put you in the mood, “Dumpster Dolly”—an old mannequin found in a nearby trash bin—is available for hire.
Imelda’s
2325 Highland Ave., National City619-474-5827
One of the few places in National City that serves up a mean Ku Soju (a sweet-potato-based liquor) and about the only one where you can take a pic with your camera phone, send it to all your friends with the message “greetings from Manila” plastered on it—and have them all believe you.
McDini’s
105 E. Eighth St., National Citywww.mcdinis.com
Started in 1926 by the Dini brothers, McDini’s has been open at its current location for 61 years and claims to be the “corned beef capital of the west.” Rave reviews of the food authenticate the claim. They also have a huge beer selection.
Over the Border
3008 Main St. Chula Vistawww.overtheborder.net
Celebrating its 10th year, the popular rock en español venue has branched out with Club 55 Fridays, featuring a $5 cover and $5 drinks, as well as a Thursday night male-stripper revue. ¿Cómo se dice “Get your greasy nalgas off my chick”?
