Common Theory expands to Otay Ranch

Common Theory Public House, known for its diverse, ever-evolving draft beer list and Asian-influenced gastropub menu in the Convoy District, last week opened a second location in Otay Ranch. 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 today, and the day will include a ribbon-cutting ceremony at 11 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 barstool seating. The restaurant’s centerpiece is a 26-seat communal table, which can be divided up into smaller groups with planters. There 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 the restaurant.

“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,” said Co-founder Joon Lee. “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 partner Cris 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 acclaimed Russian River Brewing: Velvet Glow Helles Lager and Russian River Porter. Bottled beers, wine and low-alcohol beverages are also available.

Executive Chef Steven Lona presents a menu that is roughly 80% the same as the Convoy location. Highlights include shareables such as duck fat fries, crispy chicken wings, blistered shishito peppers, and Chinese sausage flatbread. Featured entrées include bulgogi cheesesteak with Korean-style marinated beef, the CT burger, wagyu ribeye burger, Szechuan hot-fried chicken, pork sisig rice bowl and Kimchi fried rice. Traditional American gastropub fare is also on the menu and includes pretzel balls, a hummus platter, crispy calamari, salads and other flatbreads. Lona will soon add Mexican-inspired dishes, as well.

“No matter your heritage, we all have a common desire for good food, good drinks, and to be surrounded by good people,” said Liang. “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. Lee is of Korean heritage, and he attended Eastlake High School. His parents still reside in Chula Vista’s Eastlake community. The business partners previously attended UC San Diego together.

Common Theory is open 11 a.m. to 11 p.m., Sunday through Thursday, and 11 a.m. to midnight, Fridays and Saturdays.