Ever wonder what a golf course transformed into a shopping paradise looks like? Right here before you stands Westfield Plaza Bonita, a testament to retail resilience and evolution. Westfield Plaza Bonita isn’t just a mall. It’s a story etched in the heart of National City. Originally envisioned as an 18-hole golf course, this land was destined for greater things. In the late 1970s, May Centers saw the potential and transformed the green expanse into the South Bay’s first indoor mall. Westfield Plaza Bonita opened its doors in 1981, a beacon of modern shopping featuring original anchors like JCPenney, Mervyn’s, Montgomery Ward, and the May Company.
The mall’s early design embraced a warm, autumnal aesthetic. Think brick interiors and exteriors, accented by soothing beige and brown tones. Fountains graced the main entrances, adding a touch of elegance. The original logo was a vibrant rainbow in red, orange, and yellow, with the name “plaza bonita” boldly displayed in Dynamo font. A few years later, in the spring of 1983, Mann Theaters opened near the east entrance, solidifying Westfield Plaza Bonita’s role as an entertainment hub. Westfield Plaza Bonita wasn’t static. It continually adapted to the changing times. Westfield America acquired the mall in 1994. The now-iconic sign visible from the 805 freeway went up in the late 1990s, initially causing a stir among commuters before being modified.
The early 2000s saw a major transformation at Westfield Plaza Bonita. The brick facade gave way to stucco and fresh paint, and sleek ceramic tiles replaced older flooring. The food court underwent a complete renovation, and Outback Steakhouse joined Applebee’s as a dining destination. The evolution continued. In 2006, the former Wards store was demolished, making way for a grand expansion. The old food court location transformed into a Forever 21. Robinsons-May rebranded as Macy’s. 2008 marked the unveiling of a new era for Westfield Plaza Bonita. Target, Borders (relocated from Otay Ranch Town Center), and AMC Theatres joined the anchor lineup. Over 40 new shops, including H&M, and a three-story parking structure enhanced the shopper experience. A new food court, dubbed the Dining Terrace, elevated dining options. For a brief period, Westfield Plaza Bonita even housed a unique “Filipino food court,” a first in the United States, featuring Jollibee, Red Ribbon Bakeshop, and Chowking.
Westfield Plaza Bonita continued its transformation. John’s Incredible Pizza Company opened in the former Mervyn’s space, and Nordstrom Rack found a home here. Crunch Fitness took over the former Borders location. Even amidst challenges like the COVID-19 pandemic and the closure of some stores, Westfield Plaza Bonita has persevered. Today, Westfield Plaza Bonita stands as a vibrant symbol of National City’s commercial landscape, a place where community and commerce converge. From a golf course to a bustling shopping center, its journey reflects the ever-changing retail landscape.