The LA-based Brewjeria Company is spicing up the San Diego beer scene with the official announcement of a new location set to open in Chula Vista. This new establishment will take over the spot previously occupied by El Cruce, which opened in October 2020 but recently went up for sale following a change in partnership. Brewjeria, which has a production facility in Pico Rivera, was looking to expand and found the Chula Vista spot to be an ideal fit.
Aiming to serve not just as a brewery but as a community fixture, Brewjeria plans to hold onto El Cruce's name until they secure their ABC license, expected in the coming months, according to San Diego Magazine. The new Brewjeria Taproom & Kitchen will retain much of the former menu, including their notorious tacos and shareable plates, plus an expanded selection of Brewjeria beers from their Los Angeles base, along with local wine and guest taps. Deepening its ties to the community, Brewjeria has already set its sights on local events, confirming its participation in the upcoming Taste of Third Avenue on March 21.
"But El Cruce—it really just came out of nowhere," Brewjeria co-founder and President Agustin Ruelas, a San Diego native, told San Diego Magazine. He underscored the importance of tapping into the majority Hispanic and Latino demographic of Chula Vista, offering representation to a segment of underrepresented beer enthusiasts. With no plans to install a brewhouse in the Chula Vista location, the focus will remain on the taproom and kitchen elements, ensuring good food pairing with great beer.
Shared on the company's Instagram, the excitement within the Brewjeria family is palpable, "Guess what?! We’re opening a second location in Chula Vista!!!" the post proclaimed. The personal connection to San Diego decided to open a second location far from their original home a bit easier, viewing it as an opportunity to grow their business in "familiar territory."
Brewjeria is recognized for its craft beers and commitment to social causes, often partnering with nonprofits and engaging in community initiatives. With the Chula Vista transition, Ruelas emphasizes their intent to become a part of the local fabric, "We’re gonna do everything in our power to become part of the community, just like we’ve done here," he affirmed to San Diego Magazine.
