Common Theory Public House, known for its diverse, ever-evolving draft beer list and Asian-influenced gastropub menu in the Convoy District, opened a second location in Otay Ranch. Co-founders Joon Lee and Cris Liang, who both grew up in Chula Vista, made the announcement.
The new Common Theory is located at 1980 Optima Street in the Millenia community, adjacent to Otay Ranch Town Center. The 4,500-square-foot restaurant resides alongside Metro Park, which is labeled P5 on the Millenia map. A grand opening celebration will be held on Tuesday, March 19, and the day includes a ribbon cutting at 11:00 a.m., a scheduled appearance by Chula Vista Mayor John McCann, and 99-cent beers to the first 99 guests (21 years of age and older).
Common Theory, also known to regulars simply as “Common”, has a capacity of 128 with table, booth, high-top, and bar stool seating. The restaurant’s centerpiece is a 26-seat communal table, which can be divided up into smaller groups with planters. The are 18 seats at the bar and four big-screen televisions for game viewing. Also above the bar is 3D wall art of a dragon that was commissioned by San Diego artist Christopher Konecki.
Common has several large windowpanes that allow for an abundance of natural light, along with two garage doors that, when open, usher a fresh breeze throughout.
“Our objective from the beginning was to build a warm, friendly space where everyone is welcome – a place where there’s always something amazing available to eat and drink to suit anyone,” Lee said in a statement. “We finally have brought our communal style back to our hometown for even more to enjoy.”
Beverage Director Chris Lee, who also curates the drink menu at Lee’s and Liang’s speakeasy Realm of the 52 Remedies at the Convoy Common Theory, has 30 beers on tap with a focus on local breweries. The current tap menu includes two selections from Russian River Brewing: Velvet Glow Helles Lager and Russian River Porter. Bottled beers, wine, and low ABV beverages are also available.
Executive Chef Steven Lona presents a menu that is roughly 80 percent the same as the Convoy location. Highlights include shareables Duck Fat Fries, Crispy Chicken Wings, Blistered Shishito Peppers, and Chinese Sausage Flatbread. Featured entrées are Bulgogi Cheesesteak with Korean-style marinated beef, CT Burger, Wagyu Ribeye Burger, Szechuan Hot-Friend Chicken, Pork Sisig Rice Bowl, and Kimchi Fried Rice.
Traditional American gastropub fare is also on the menu – pretzel balls, hummus platter, crispy calamari, salads, and other flatbreads. Lona will soon add Mexican-inspired dishes.
“No matter your heritage, we all have a common desire for good food, good drinks, and to be surrounded by good people,” Liang said. “Our new Common is a comforting venue that we’re confident all will enjoy.”
Liang is of Chinese heritage. He was born in Mexico, and after immigrating to the United States with his family, attended Bonita High School. Co-founder Joon Lee is of Korean heritage, and he attended Eastlake High School. His parents still reside in the Eastlake community. Liang and Lee attended UC San Diego together.
Common Theory opens daily at 11:00 a.m. Closing hours are 11:00 p.m. Sunday – Thursday and at 12:00 midnight Friday and Saturday. Street parking is available on several surrounding streets: Optima Street, Montage Avenue, Metro Avenue, and Orion Avenue.
