National City, which on San Diego’s bayfront is north of Chula Vista and south of downtown San Diego. It’s also the central industrial business hub of San Diego proper. It boasts more than 3,000 businesses in a tiny land area of only 7.3 square miles. Major employers include its huge marine terminal that processed 270,000 cars last year.
National City is the south bay home to the Mile of Cars. Buying a car in San Diego means definitely making a visit to the National City Mile of Cars. It is home to the county’s largest new and used auto sales center, The National City Mile of Cars (19) has an incredible inventory of more than 5,000 cars.
National City is also rich in turn-of-the-century Victorian homes. In fact, there are more Victorian homes in National City than anywhere else in California. The most promenent historical structure is a block long row of apartments aptly called Brick Row on Heritage Square (2) at 909 A Ave. (see map). Also visit [nationalcityca.gov] for a list of 25 historic homes complete with fascinating photos and address so that you can identify these structures as you pass by.
One of the most recommended dining destinations in National City is Villa Manila Restaurant (1) at 500 E. Eighth St. (619-477-8512). It’s located in the Old Schoolhouse Square, which is very near Brick Row historic buildings on A Avenue. There is a large concentration of Filipinos living in San Diego, and this restaurant comes highly recommended. While in National City be sure to dine here.
Another highly-touted restaurant dating back to the 1940’s and still as popular as ever is Cafe La Maze (4) at 1441 Highland Ave. (619-474-3222). Back in the 1940’s it was a popular destination for the movie star crowd including Clark Gable, Jane Russel, Errol Flynn, Bing Crosby, Joan Crawford Jean Harlow, Carole Lombard and others, and fittingly their photographs adorn the walls. The big attraction back in that era was that is was where the movie stars would stop off before or after a day at the Tijuana Race track. Then and now the decore oozes with class with its rich red leather booths, attentive service and cool sounding live entertainment performed while you dine. While it has the theme of a 1940’s restaurant and night spot it is as contemporary now as was then. This is one of the top 100 restaurants recommended by the SAN DIEGAN. See Restaurants
