Blog · Eastlake History

Can You Imagine Eastlake Without a Grocery Store? Before Vons Opened in 1996

By Betty Torano, REALTOR® · Eastlake resident since 1987 · October 22, 2026

Can you imagine living in Eastlake without a grocery store? For the first several years, that's exactly how it was.

Groceries Meant a Drive

When we moved here in 1987, buying groceries meant driving west toward Bonita or central Chula Vista.

Vons Opens at Eastlake Village Center

In 1996, Vons opened at Eastlake Village Center and changed everyday life for the growing community.

Eastlake Today

Today, shopping, dining and everyday errands are close by. You'll find more about everyday life here in my Life in Eastlake guide.

Do you remember when Vons opened? Where did your family shop before then? I'd love to hear.

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