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January 13.2026
3 Minutes Read

Stella Jean's and Pop Pie Co. Opening: A New Culinary Hub in La Mesa

Woman enjoying ice cream under bright sun, Stella Jean's ambiance.

Exciting New Additions to La Mesa's Dining Scene

La Mesa is preparing for a culinary boost this summer with the upcoming openings of Stella Jean’s and Pop Pie Co. These two beloved eateries will be located side-by-side at 8243 and 8247 La Mesa Blvd, taking over the spaces of Village Pet Salon and Act II. Known for their unique offerings, these two locations promise to attract both locals and visitors, adding to the neighborhood's growing food scene.

Unique Offerings from Established Brands

Stella Jean's is celebrated for its artisan ice cream, featuring rotating globally-inspired flavors. The location in La Mesa will mark the company's ninth establishment in San Diego County. Steven Torres, the founder, emphasizes a strong commitment to quality ingredients and community, stating, "We just want to build community out there—be where people want us." This location aims to provide a space for locals to indulge in rich, handcrafted frozen delights.

Next door, Pop Pie Co. boasts a reputation for its creatively modern takes on savory and sweet pies. Their distinctive menu pairs nostalgia with innovation, featuring globally influenced recipes that stand out in San Diego's competitive food market. This opening will bring their seventh location, showcasing their dedication to careful, community-focused expansion.

The Community's Growing Appetite for Diversity

La Mesa has witnessed an influx of new dining options recently, from artisanal coffee shops to specialty food stores. Stella Jean’s and Pop Pie Co. will contribute significantly to this trend, enhancing the area’s reputation as a vibrant food destination. According to Torres, the decision to locate here comes after years of searching for the right fit, as the community's enthusiasm and desire for these eateries have grown. He notes that ice cream options within the city are limited, making their offerings particularly appealing.

A Food Destination Ready to Flourish

With recent developments, La Mesa is becoming an increasingly attractive destination for food lovers. The pairing of Pop Pie Co. and Stella Jean's Ice Cream is designed to maximize foot traffic and create a lively hub for both seasoned residents and newcomers. This dual opening reflects a broader trend of neighborly dining clusters that can enhance local economies and foster community engagement.

The essence of a food destination lies in its ability to bring people together, and the arrivals of these two eateries illustrate this concept perfectly. By celebrating unique flavors and high-quality offerings, both Pop Pie Co. and Stella Jean’s aim to engage the community while also cultivating long-term loyalty.

Looking Ahead: The Future of La Mesa’s Food Scene

As summer approaches, the anticipation for these openings grows, not only for the distinct culinary experiences they promise but also for the community-building aspirations they embody. Both establishments are set to open their doors in mid-2026, inviting everyone to join them in a celebration of flavor, nostalgia, and new beginnings.

If you're looking for an exciting addition to your dining plans, keep an eye on the openings of Stella Jean’s and Pop Pie Co. this summer. Their arrival is not just a sign of new foods but an invitation to experience the evolving culinary landscape of La Mesa.

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02.24.2026

How Makeda Dread Cheatom Transformed San Diego's Reggae and Culture Landscape

Update Merging Cultures Through Music: The Legacy of Makeda “Dread” CheatomIn the diverse soundscape of San Diego's music scene, few figures have made as profound an impact as Makeda “Dread” Cheatom. As a DJ, cultural entrepreneur, and founder of the WorldBeat Cultural Center, Cheatom has not only shaped the local reggae scene but has also become a pivotal bridge between cultures in the city. Amid a backdrop of racial tension and cultural segregation, Cheatom's work reflects the ethos of unity and understanding through art, making her a unique voice in the community.The Rise of Reggae in San DiegoGrowing up in Linda Vista—a neighborhood notable for its amalgamation of many cultures—Cheatom's interest in reggae music was ignited by her environment. In a moment that would shape her future, she personally met Bob Marley and later produced a concert featuring his music, which was virtually unheard on local radio at the time. "I remember going to radio stations and being told they didn’t know who Marley was," she recalls. This was a catalyst for her to educate the community about reggae, paving the way for a genre that would become a staple in the city’s nightlife.Establishing a Cultural CenterWhile Cheatom initially began her career as a DJ, her vision reached far beyond music. She identified a critical lack of representation for Black and African culture in San Diego and took it upon herself to establish a venue that would promote multiculturalism. In 1989, Cheatom founded the WorldBeat Cultural Center in Balboa Park, a multi-cultural hub where diverse traditions come together through art, food, and performance. Her tenacity earned her the dilapidated water tower at Balboa Park, transforming it into a vibrant community space.Trailblazing AchievementsNot limited to music, Cheatom's accomplishments span a variety of community-based initiatives. She opened the first vegetarian restaurant in San Diego, collaborated with health advocates, and even produced the annual Bob Marley Day events at the San Diego Sports Arena for over 25 years. Her contributions have not gone unnoticed, earning her awards such as the Channel 10 Leadership Award and accolades from various organizations celebrating her work in cultural exchange and environmental stewardship.Inspiring Future GenerationsCheatom's latest endeavor, the WorldBeat Center’s Children’s Ethnobotany Peace Garden, serves as an outdoor classroom, connecting children to the origins of their food while instilling a sense of environmental stewardship. One of her recent projects focuses on the impact of noise pollution in underserved communities, demonstrating her commitment to flattening socioeconomic barriers in education and community health.Conclusion: A Cultural ForceMakeda “Dread” Cheatom is more than a cultural leader; she is a trailblazer whose work transcends genres and unites communities. Her legacy is a celebration of diversity and an acknowledgment of music's profound ability to bring people together. In a world increasingly divided by cultural divides, Cheatom’s vision of a united humanity serves as a powerful reminder of art’s potential to foster peace and understanding among all people.

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Chaos and Violence Erupt in Tijuana After El Mencho’s Death: What It Means for Citizens

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02.23.2026

After El Mencho's Death: Tijuana Faces Unprecedented Violence and Turmoil

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