CHULA VISTA, Calif. — A famous Tijuana taco restaurant just opened a new spot in Chula Vista — bringing TJ's legacy to this side of the border.
People all throughout San Diego County have eagerly awaited the opening of this southwest Chula Vista location for nearly two years. Las Ahumaderas by El Poblano is a food-court style restaurant that will have items the Tijuana spot is known for such as their renowned adobada and carne asada tacos as well as elote and crepes.
Where is Las Ahumaderas?
1011 Broadway
Chula Vista, CA 91911
Hours: 9 a.m.-10 p.m.
The owner said they faced delays of bringing the restaurant to life because of the pandemic.
But the spirit of this place has been alive for decades.
Owner Pedro Rodriguez said the restaurant was born in Tijuana when his uncle opened a spot in the city's famed "taco alley" more often known as "las ahumaderas." Its name is a nod to the smoke from the grills cooking meats such as asada and adobada.
The Rodriguez family stayed in the business of tacos. Pedro also wanted to show tribute to his roots with the name.
"Why not rescue the name? Rescue where my family started," Rodriguez said.
He says the recipes come from family members like his uncle, who learned from his community all those years ago.
Rodriguez has his finger's crossed — hoping they're a hit.
"We're planning on giving the best treat you can have and everybody has to leave this place with something good," he said.
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