Sunday’s Taste of College Area is a win-win for both businesses and diners

If you have some time and a desire for good food this Sunday, head on over to the College Area for the Taste of College Area event. One is sure not to leave hungry.

It kicks off at 11 a.m. and runs until 3 p.m.

“This is our second year hosting the Taste of College Area, and we’re thrilled to bring it back after last year’s success,” College Area Business District Executive Director Jim Schneider said. “Thanks to the enthusiastic response from the community, participating restaurants were eager to join again.”

As Schneider sees it, the event is a win-win for both businesses and attendees.

“It encourages people to explore, sample and connect with a variety of local eateries — many of which they might not have discovered otherwise,” Schneider continued. “It’s a unique opportunity to meet the owners and staff, experience the atmosphere and try signature dishes from each location. Our hope is that you’ll find some new favorites and continue to support these incredible small businesses all year long.”

According to Schneider, this year’s event is especially exciting, with many restaurants participating again and several newcomers joining the fun.

“The College Area has welcomed several new dining spots over the past year, making this a great opportunity for the community to explore and experience the evolving culinary landscape,” Schneider added. “New participating restaurants include: Kinchana, ESSNTL Coffee, Ikuzo Sushi, Joyee’s Dumpling House and Charoen Krung Thai.”

One of the participating eateries is Corbin’s Q.

The establishment has been in business since 2013, when it started out catering meals before offering in-house dining.

“Participating helps the day of sales as well as gets people returning to check us out,” said the owner, known simply as Corbin. “It’s an awesome way for local and fellow communities to see what the College Area has to offer. Because we appreciate the jewel of La Mesa right next door.”

When asked what his message might be for those coming out to the event, Corbin noted, “Thank you for getting out and supporting the community. We are looking forward to an awesome time.  So come hungry, or maybe just come extra thirsty.” 

SciEats Eatery, which opened locally earlier this summer, is another participant lined up for Sunday.

Vice President and Manager Taher Sathaliya is looking forward to sharing the brand’s three passions this weekend – community, food and science.

“People will have an opportunity to sample our food and learn our story and be our advocate if they like what we do,” Sathaliya said. “SciEats Eatery is a nonprofit community space where everyone shares the same healthy, nutritious meals with dignity by paying what they want – the menu prices are suggested donations.”

Joyee’s Dumpling House, a destination this Sunday, located near San Diego State University, opened a few months ago.

The eatery’s Oreo Wang noted, “This is a good opportunity to get in touch with our community and spread our great food.” This event allows us to let more local customers come and try us out.” Wang added that the staff can’t wait to see the guests this Sunday.

For Schneider, the event is a chance for the public to see how the College Area/Rolando commercial corridors are undergoing changes that are helping to elevate the profile of the business district.

“This vibrant area is evolving—shaped by the businesses that call it home and the customers who support them,” he said. “The highlight of the Taste of College Area is the transportation provided by Old Town Trolley Tours, which takes ‘tasters’ on a fun-filled ride through the neighborhood to visit various sampling spots. The trolley itself becomes part of the experience, where guests share stories, laughter and often make new friends along the way.”

Schneider had a tip as well: “Be sure to plan ahead so you can explore and sample from some of the lesser-known restaurants – you might just discover a hidden gem. And you’ll leave with a fresh appreciation for the unique personality of the College Area/Rolando community (spoiler: it’s so much more than just college students).”