In a statement shared on Instagram, Common Theory owners Cris Liang and Joon Lee described the decision as both painful and unavoidable, calling the Chula Vista outpost a deeply personal project that ultimately faced challenges beyond their control. Both founders grew up in Chula Vista and had envisioned the Millenia location as a homecoming, bringing the community-driven spirit of Common Theory back to the South Bay.
Despite strong early support and a dedicated group of regulars, the restaurant cited structural issues tied to the Millenia development as a major factor in its closure. According to the owners, the surrounding plaza remained incomplete long after opening, promised parking infrastructure never materialized, and limited visibility and access made it difficult to sustain consistent traffic. Several long-delayed projects intended to support the area failed to come online, leaving independent operators without the conditions needed to succeed.
Common Theory Chula Vista opened in March 2024 in a 4,500-square-foot space adjacent to Metro Park. The restaurant was designed as a more refined evolution of the Convoy flagship, featuring a 30-tap beer program, a large communal table, expansive windows, and a prominent 3D dragon installation by San Diego artist Christopher Konecki. The menu mirrored fan favorites from Kearny Mesa, including Szechuan hot-fried chicken, kimchi fried rice, wings, burgers, and Asian-influenced gastropub plates, with plans to further expand into Mexican and Southeast Asian flavors.
At the time of opening, Liang and Lee spoke openly about the significance of bringing the concept back to their hometown after more than a decade of success in Kearny Mesa. But in their farewell message, the team acknowledged that broader economic pressures - combined with the realities of opening in a still-developing retail zone - ultimately made continued operation impossible.
The owners also used the announcement to encourage diners to continue supporting locally owned restaurants, noting that small businesses often feel the effects of economic downturns and incomplete developments long before national chains.
Common Theory’s original Convoy Street location will remain open, as will other concepts tied to the group, including Realm of the 52 Remedies and Woomiok.
Common Theory Chula Vista will serve its final guests on Sunday, December 21, at 1980 Optima Street in Chula Vista. For more information, visit commontheorysd.com.