farmers market
01 Apr 2024

Guide To The Best San Diego Food Halls & Farmers Markets

By builtbygcommerce

Southern California is known for many amazing things and food is definitely at the top of the list for locals and visitors to the area. Whether you are looking for fresh, locally grown fruits and vegetables to make your favorite dish or want something delicious that has already been expertly prepared, foodies and fresh market fans will love the offerings of the local San Diego food halls and San Diego farmers markets. Don’t miss the chance to experience the culture of the city, take in the unique dining opportunities, and explore your options for creative goods offered at these popular establishments during your stay here at Humphreys Half Moon Inn in San Diego. Here are a few of the most popular San Diego farmers markets and food halls in the area to visit.

Popular San Diego Food Halls

If you’re looking to experience the culture of San Diego, a local food hall is a great way to get a taste of the amazing cuisine and meet some of the locals who prepare it. Choose from a variety of different dining options in one central location, so you can try a little bit of everything. A visit to a San Diego food hall is sure to please even the most finicky eaters and entertain everyone with the unique ambiance and local fare.

Liberty Public Market (2.4 miles)

Make sure to visit Liberty Public Market, the culinary epicenter nestled within the historic confines of San Diego’s Liberty Station. This food hall offers a diverse array of culinary experiences to tantalize every taste bud. From artisanal cheese shops and freshly baked pastries to savory barbecue and exotic international fare, there’s something to satisfy every palate. Sip on locally roasted coffee or indulge in a craft cocktail as you wander through this vibrant marketplace, soaking in the lively atmosphere and community spirit. Whether you’re a seasoned foodie or just looking for a delicious bite, Liberty Public Market promises an unforgettable culinary adventure.

Old Town Market (3.9 miles)

Step into San Diego’s Old Town Market Food Hall and embark on a culinary journey through the vibrant flavors of Southern California. Nestled in the heart of historic Old Town, this bustling food hall captures the essence of the region’s rich culinary heritage. From sizzling street tacos and mouthwatering burritos to freshly made ceviche and indulgent churros, every corner offers a taste sensation to delight every palate. With its charming ambiance and diverse array of vendors, the Old Town Market Food Hall is a must-visit destination for food lovers seeking an authentic taste of San Diego’s culinary soul.

Little Italy Food Hall (4.6 miles)

All the amazing tastes and the unique culture of Italy are just 4.9 miles away from your suite at Humphreys Half Moon Inn in San Diego at the Little Italy Food Hall. Recently named as one of the Top 10 Food Halls in the United States by USA Today, this popular San Diego food hall offers a superb taste of Italy in the heart of San Diego’s Little Italy community. Located at the Piazza Della Famiglia, be prepared to be wowed by eight food stations offering everything including authentic pizza, fusion tacos, sushi bowls, Chinese noodles, Maine lobster, a donut cart, and full bar service for guests with a beautiful view of the fountain in the Piazza. 

little italy

(Photo: @eatsamburgers)

Popular San Diego Farmers Markets

From local art and creative crafts to amazing California produce and flowers, you might be surprised at all the things you can find at a San Diego farmers market. Here are some of the most popular local markets that are near Humphreys Half Moon Inn for you to explore during your stay.

If you’re looking to experience the culture of San Diego, a local food hall is a great way to get a taste of the amazing cuisine and meet some of the locals who prepare it. Choose from a variety of different dining options in one central location, so you can try a little bit of everything. A visit to a San Diego food hall is sure to please even the most finicky eaters and entertain everyone with the unique ambiance and local fare.

Ocean Beach Farmers Market (3.1 miles)

Open each Wednesday from 4-8pm, the Ocean Beach Farmers Market is the place for foodies who are looking for unique, local, delicious cuisine. Located just 3.1 miles from Humphreys Half Moon Inn, immerse yourself in a unique shopping experience with over 100 vendors. The Ocean Beach Farmers Market includes goods from certified farmers, chefs, artisans, and more. This eclectic San Diego farmers market offers baked bread and desserts, flowers and plants, local fruits and vegetables, and even hot-prepared meals. Hotel guests will enjoy this unique experience in a fun, beachside community.

Ocean Beach Farmers Market

(Photo: @aishamaephoto)

Little Italy Mercato (4.5 miles)

The Little Italy Mercato sounds like a food lover’s paradise! With over 200 vendors offering a diverse range of fresh produce and artisanal goods, it’s no wonder it’s such a celebrated market. The fact that it’s situated in Little Italy, known for its culinary excellence, speaks volumes about the quality you can expect there. From freshly baked bread to artisanal cheeses, candies, honey, and farm-fresh eggs, it seems like there’s something to delight every palate. It must be a vibrant and bustling atmosphere, perfect for exploring and discovering new flavors.

Saturdays, 8am–2pm

little italy mercato
(Photo: @littleitalymercato)

Pacific Beach Farmers Market (7.4 miles)

Located just 7.4 miles from Humphreys Half Moon Inn, the Pacific Beach Farmers Market is open every Tuesday from 2-7pm. This popular seaside market offers everything from meats and cheeses to fresh produce, flowers, and more. Visitors will also find gourmet dining opportunities as well as beautiful, handcrafted pieces by local artisans.

Hillcrest Farmers Market (7.6 miles)

The perfect way to spend a Sunday in San Diego, the Hillcrest Farmers Market is San Diego’s original and largest farmers market. Less than 7 miles from your room here at Humphreys Half Moon Inn, there are over 175 vendors that offer everything from locally grown produce and flowers to unique gifts, clothing, arts and crafts, and more! This is a must-visit during your time in San Diego, as this popular farmers market hosts around 10,000 people each week!

Explore the San Diego Farmers Markets and Food Halls During Your Stay at Humphreys Half Moon Inn

Are you ready to explore the food halls and farmers markets in San Diego for a delicious cultural experience you won’t soon forget? Book your accommodations now at Humphreys Half Moon Inn to be close to all the fun! Hotel guests can also enjoy the proximity to some of the most popular places to visit in San Diego including SeaWorld San Diego, Legoland California, the San Diego Zoo, and more. In addition, enjoy top-notch onsite amenities during your stay including our waterfront restaurant and lounge, outdoor concerts, tropical pool and jacuzzi, fitness center, bayfront location with a private marina, and so much more!

dining room
13 Sep 2023

Meet Percy Oani: Humphreys New Executive Chef

By builtbygcommerce

We are thrilled to introduce our new Executive Chef, Percy Oani, who has joined the Humphreys family with a wealth of culinary experience and a passion for creating delightful dining experiences. Chef Percy brings a diverse culinary background and a commitment to crafting dishes that cater to a broad range of palates. Let’s get to know him better and discover what he has in store for guests at Humphreys SoCAL Dining & Music!

Q: Can you please introduce yourself?

A: Hi, I am Chef Percy. I’m the new executive chef here at Humphreys Half Moon Inn. It’s really great to be joining this family of hotels and I’m looking forward to a very long tenure.

a dining table overlooking the water

Q: Can you tell us about your job experience/history before coming to Humphreys?

A: Prior to my arrival here to Humphreys, I was downtown as the executive chef for Hotel Republic. Before that, I was over at La Jolla Beach and Tennis Club where I was a chef at the Shores Hotel. Prior to that, for an extensive period of time, I was the chef for Roy’s Restaurants, where I traveled to different locations.

Q: Where are you from originally?

A: I’m actually a Southern California native. I was born in San Pedro and I grew up in the South Bay area of Los Angeles, so that’s where I had a lot of influence when it comes to food. There are a lot of different neighborhoods to go to, for all different styles of cuisine.

Q: How did you get into being a chef?

A: My dad was a cook in the Navy and he would come home and make all these different dishes. So I wasn’t exposed to just the Filipino food that my mom would cook, but I was exposed to different types of food. We also had a spice rack that my dad would always go to, and I was always curious to see what he was using the different spices for. That little spice rack is probably one of the things that piqued my interest in cooking most — trying to figure out what those little leaves were doing to food and how they would flavor it.

Q: What advice would you give to anyone who wants to become a chef?

A: To have humility. Not everyone’s going to enjoy what you’ve made, but you want to make sure that you’re trying to create food that’s going to be catering to a broad range of people – not just one person, but everyone. Be dedicated, because hours are long, and just be a student of cooking.

Q: What about advice for someone who just wants to get into cooking in their own home?

A: Get quality ingredients and cook when you’re happy. I was once told to never cook when you’re angry because the food’s going to come out bitter. That’s my biggest piece of advice – just cook from the heart at home, because it’s always going to come out better that way.

Q: Who or what inspires you, when it comes to cooking?

A: Definitely my father who pretty much got me into cooking, He inspires me ’cause I really want to make him proud too. I want to become the chef that he always hoped I’d be.

Q: What is your favorite dish to make?

A: My favorite dish to make is beef ribs – low and slow. Let it just go for a while. Smoke it, just wait, and be patient to let it come out nice and super tender.

Q: What about your favorite dish to eat?

One of my favorite foods to eat is poke – tuna poke. My kids love it too, it’s one of those go-to dishes in our family. Whenever we’re hungry, I get some tuna, cut it up real quick, make some rice, toss it in a bowl… The kids are happy. I’m happy. It’s all good. 

salad and champagne

Q: Other than cooking, what do you enjoy doing in your free time?

A: When you start having kids, your free time is limited. It’s not about you anymore. It’s all about your kids. So, my son right now, plays a lot of baseball – a lot of our time is spent watching his baseball games and practices. My oldest daughter, she’s getting ready to drive so I’ve been taking her out to practice a lot. My middle daughter is now in the speech and debate team that just started, so I’m really looking forward to seeing some of her speeches and debates when she begins traveling to different high schools. So that all pretty much takes up all my free time!

Q: What do you have in store for Humphreys?

A: I want to put my personality on the plate. Being that I have grown up around and learned so many different types of cuisine, I really want to incorporate that eclectic mix here — Asian fusion, south-of-the-border influence, Mediterranean style… Casually fun, I don’t want it to be too stuffy. I just want people to come in, have a good time, and enjoy what we’re putting out there.

Q: Anything else you’d like guests to know?

A: Just come on by! Give us a try — I know it’s probably been a while for some people, but in the next few months, we’re going to start having some fun with this menu and I think you’re really going to enjoy it.

Stay tuned for exciting new menu updates and make sure to follow us on Instagram and Facebook to stay up-to-date on Chef Percy’s latest creations!

01 Apr 2023

The Meat Of the Matter: Best San Diego Steakhouses

By builtbygcommerce

San Diego’s restaurant scene is — hands down — one of the best in the world. And since sometimes, nothing but a big, juicy cut of USDA Prime will do, “America’s Finest City” offers enough steakhouses to satisfy even the most discerning of carnivores. So whether you’re in the mood for a satisfying ribeye, tender filet mignon, or even a titanic tomahawk cut, here’s your guide to finding your personal preference for the best steakhouse in San Diego. And don’t worry — we’d never “steer” you wrong.  

Island Prime/C-Level (3.5 miles)

(Photo: @islandprimeclevel)

Island Prime (and its on-site bar C-Level Lounge) takes bayfront dining to an entirely new level. This eatery lets you go beyond the beach — offering exceptional views of the San Diego Bay and downtown skyline. Island Prime is the perfect spot for business luncheons, celebrations or to impress a loved one for a romantic dining experience. Their menu also offers an elevated experience, with steaks just as tasty as the scenery. Don’t miss the Filet Trio (a triptych of tender filets mignon topped with king crab, wild mushrooms & bleu cheese). Alternatively, the New York strip served with the peppercorn-infused au poivre sauce.

880 Harbor Island Dr, San Diego, CA 92101

Born and Raised (4.5 miles)

(Photo: @bornandraisedstk)

Beef is the big star at this magnificent meatery, with a selection of prime, dry-aged cuts making up the majority of the menu. Born and Raised San Diego is famous for their attentive (but never intrusive) tableside service, striking old-school “Gatsby” vibe and décor, views overlooking Little Italy and San Diego Bay, and some of the most incredible, melt-in-your-mouth cuts of meat available anywhere. The cocktail program is also one of the best in the city, with a beverage to tantalize every palate. You can’t go wrong here.

1909 India St, San Diego, CA 92101

Cowboy Star Restaurant & Butcher Shop (7.2 miles)

(Photo: @cowboystarsd)

East Village’s Cowboy Star is one of the most popular steak stops in the city, and for a laundry list of excellent reasons. Among them: exceptional dry-aged steaks, fresh, locally-sourced ingredients, and a welcoming atmosphere that blends classic and contemporary design. The menu achieves the same balance, with a delicious blend of classic cuts, and savory seasonal dishes. When you go, make sure you save room for the famous Banana Pudding dessert.

640 Tenth Ave, San Diego, CA 92101

STK San Diego (7.3 miles)

(Photo: @eatstk)

Upscale STK is just as famous for their skyline-view rooftop lounge as they are for their exceptional menu. Been tempted to sample a serving of legendary A5-grade Japanese Wagyu? STK has a selection. Celebrating with a prestige cut like a porterhouse or tomahawk? You’ll find the best in the city here. And since each steak comes with the diner’s choice of a gourmet, house-made sauce, you’ll never have the same steak twice.  

600 F St, San Diego, CA 92101

The Fishery (8.4 miles)

(Photo: @sdthefishery)

Located in Pacific Beach, The Fishery is primarily known for their seafood offerings — but sleeping on the beef would be a big “missed steak.” Excellent ribeye, filet mignon, and New York strip are all fantastic choices here, and the full-service bar offers a deep selection of spirits, wines, and local craft beers to accompany every delicious dish. Insider tip: looking for a fun night out? Check out the lively nightlife scene in this area for after-dinner drinks. You’ll find a number of bars, clubs and speakeasies in this youthful beachfront community! 

5040 Cass St, San Diego, CA 92109

Rare Society (9.1 miles)

You’d be forgiven for assuming you’ve taken a step back in time when you pass through the doors of this University Heights staple. Given the focus on mid-century décor and exceptional service, you may find yourself wondering why the relaxed pace of yesteryear is the exception rather than the rule lately. Pick your cut from a deep menu featuring Australian Wagyu, bullseye ribeye, and even a 20-oz. / 40-day dry-aged bone-in New York strip, choose a specialty sauce, and allow yourself to be transported.

4130 Park Blvd, San Diego, CA 92103 

The Butcher Shop (12.5 miles)

(Photo: @thebutchershop_sd)

San Diego may have a distinct (and awesome) identity all its own — but when it comes to steakhouses? There are plenty of diners who swear by the Chicago way. The Butcher Shop borrows its methodology and interior design from that timeless vibe, while allowing the menu to also be informed by the savory selections available to Chicago’s most celebrated stockyards. The result is an experience you simply won’t find anywhere else outside the WIndy City.

Humphreys SoCAL Dining & Music (JUST STEPS AWAY!)

Guests at Humphreys are never far away from raising the steaks on a delicious dining experience. Our very own on-site eatery is always among favorite stops for hungry locals looking for a classic cut. Whether you opt for our grilled tenderloin (with garlic mash, baby kale and a Cabernet reduction), skirt steak with pomme frites and a bright chimichurri, or even our sage-brined double-cut pork chop, you’ll always head out happy.

01 Feb 2023

San Diego’s Speakeasies & Hidden Watering Holes

By builtbygcommerce

From a tiki-inspired hideaway in Little Italy to a swanky secret bar concealed behind a liquor store in La Jolla, there are endless San Diego speakeasies worth exploring. Whether you’re looking to indulge in out-of-this-world libations or tropical-inspired cocktails, plan the perfect Valentine’s Day date, or enjoy a night out with the whole squad, our hush-hush hideaways offer something for everyone. Here’s how to enjoy some of the best hidden watering holes in town!

Oculto 477 (4.4 miles away) 

Oculto 477 is the only cemetery-adjacent speakeasy in the country. It pays its respects to mixologists of the past, as well as to the 477 “inhabitants” buried next door. With politely enforced etiquette and dress codes, this San Diego speakeasy boasts a dedicated mezcal tasting room and an unrivaled whiskey selection. Feeling adventurous? You’re invited to roll the dice (literally) for their “Risk It All” dealer’s choice cocktail. Secret Tip: The entrance is hidden inside Tahona. We won’t tell you exactly where, of course — in this case, finding it is half the fun. But we will warn you: be prepared to confess one of the 7 deadly sins…the choice is up to you!

2414 San Diego Ave, San Diego, CA 92110

Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve (19.7 miles away)

A grotto, wood carvings, a waterfall, and a volcano that can “erupt” at any moment are part of what makes False Idol one of our favorite San Diego speakeasies. Home to more than 200 varieties of rum and known for its Alkala the Fierce cocktail, this hush-hush hideaway is a can’t-miss spot. Secret Tip: A walk-in refrigerator in the back of Little Italy’s Craft & Commerce restaurant may be more than just a place to keep food cold.

675 W Beech St, San Diego, CA 92101

Noble Experiment (6.3 miles away)

(Photo: @nobleexperiment)

An intimate and exclusive spot, Noble Experiment serves up lively libations among a wall of skulls inside one of the city’s longest-running speakeasies. Make a reservation (at the text-only special phone number you can hunt down on their website) well in advance to guarantee your admission to this uniquely fun bar. Secret Tip: The entrance of the speakeasy is through a wall of empty kegs stacked along the wall near the restrooms.

777 G St, San Diego, CA 92101

Youngblood (6.3 miles away) 

(Photo: @youngbloodcocktails)

A hidden bar inside another hidden bar?! That is exactly what Youngblood is! Tucked away in Noble Experiment, this glamorous space only has 30 seats and is impeccably decorated with attention paid to even the smallest of details. Secret Tip: Enter through a faux-refrigerator door just beyond the tiled vestibule.

777 G St, San Diego, CA 92101

ReBru Spirits (7.3 miles away)

(Photo: @rebruspirits)

It doesn’t get more authentic than ReBru Spirits, which used to be a real speakeasy! The space is home to a distillery, indoor and outdoor event spaces, a restaurant, butchery, and, of course, a tavern. Once you enter the hidden watering hole, you’ll be transported to a psychedelic wonderland. Enjoy delicious food and drinks from every aspect of this great space! Secret Tip: Enter through the shelf located in the main distillery.

1735 National Ave, San Diego, CA 92113

MOTHERSHIP (8.1 miles away)

MOTHERSHIP is an out-of-this-world, space-inspired San Diego speakeasy. It explores bold, tropical flavors and promises permanent vacation vibes. A sci-fi-lovers paradise, MOTHERSHIP provides creative design and a unique backstory, making it one of the most talked-about spots among locals in 2022. Secret Tip: Open the door at the corner of Juniper and 30th Street. Once through the door, you’ll find yourself in the crash-landing site that is MOTHERSHIP.

2310 30th St, San Diego, CA 92104

Raised by Wolves (13.2 miles away)

Don’t let Raised by Wolves’ mall location fool you. The San Diego speakeasy is all nostalgia on the inside with frescoes, polished cabinets, marble-tiled floors, and an all-around dazzling atmosphere. You’re sure to be blown away by the rotating bar complete with seasoned bartenders whipping up unique cocktails. Secret Tip: Fittingly tucked in a liquor store, the entrance is behind a revolving wall attached to a hidden fireplace. 

4301 La Jolla Village Dr #2030, San Diego, CA 92122

Plan Your Speakeasy Tour

(Photo: @visitsandiego)

Ready to experience these hidden watering holes for yourself? Book your Humphreys Half Moon Inn stay at our Special Offers page, and start planning your San Diego getaway today!
01 Aug 2022

What to Eat and Drink In Old Town San Diego

By builtbygcommerce

As California’s oldest city, San Diego has a very rich and interesting past. Nowhere is this more evident than in Old Town, the site of the state’s earliest local settlements. Old Town is well-known for its authentic, lively and vibrant dining options, all of which have grown it into a major foodie hub. And while Old Town once largely focused on Mexican cuisine, its recently expanded to include sushi, a sports bar and even the world’s first cemetery-adjacent speakeasy. In light of that, here are some of our favorite places to get a taste of tradition in Old Town San Diego.

Café Coyote

(Photo: @cafecoyoteoldtown)

Perhaps one of the more popular Old Town restaurants, this spot has topped countless local “Best Of” lists. Once you’ve experienced it for yourself, it’s not hard to taste why. Everything on the menu is the definition of “fresh,” since each bite is made on-premises every day. In addition to the award-winning food, Café Coyote is also a great place to go for live entertainment, Margarita flights, and one of the best selections of Tequila and Mezcal in the state. Locals’ Tip Café Coyote makes fresh tortillas to order right in front of the restaurant and they’re a must-try!

2461 San Diego Ave, San Diego, CA 92110

Old Town Mexican Café and Cantina

(Photo: @sophiejeon81)

Ask any local where to find amazing Mexican food in Old Town, and if they don’t recommend the aforementioned Café Coyote, they’ll almost certainly point you in the direction of OTMC. The famed “tortilla ladies” here make upwards of 7,000 fresh tortillas every day, and there’s not a thing on the menu that isn’t equal parts authentic and delicious. Do not pass up the carnitas, pozole, albondigas soup or overstuffed burritos.

2489 San Diego Ave, San Diego, CA 92110 

Tequila Factory

(Photo: @oldtowntequilafactory)

Much like any restaurant in Old Town, there’s never a bad time to visit Tequila Factory. Still, no San Diegan would dispute that their champagne brunch is probably the best time to go. Served every Saturday and Sunday morning, the brunch includes a full menu of palate-pleasing south-of-the-border specialties. Additionally, guests can look forward to bottomless champagne and mimosas, and some truly delectable specialty desserts. 

2467 Juan St, San Diego, CA 92110 

Jack & Giulio’s Italian Restaurant

(Photo: @jackgiulios)

Although Old Town is easily the undisputed best place to go for Mexican food in San Diego, there’s no shortage of other world cuisines available in the neighborhood as well. Jack & Giulio’s has been serving fresh-made Italian fare in the city since 1961, and their generous portions, rich flavors and friendly service have been the stuff of legend just as long. They also have a fantastic wine list that rivals any continental eatery in Little Italy.

2391 San Diego Ave, San Diego, CA 92110 

Sushi Tadokoro

(Photo: @sushi_tadokoro)

The culturally diverse melting-pot ethic that defines Old Town (and San Diego as a whole) continues with this stellar Japanese establishment. As an outlet serving “Edomae”-style sushi in an intimate environment, Tadokoro offers an experience that’s as close to dining in Japan as you can get without stamping your passport. That’s especially due to the fact that much of the menu is flown in fresh from Japan daily, then prepared within hours.

2244 San Diego Ave, San Diego, CA 92110  

Oculto 477 

(Photo: @oculto477)

After undertaking your food tour of Old Town, you’ll want to make a stop at Oculto 477 for an after-dinner apértif. Dovetailing with the increasingly-popular local speakeasy trend, this tucked-away tavern echoes the vibe of the Prohibition-era pubs of the past, as well as incorporating a somewhat spooky air borrowed from an adjacent cemetery. An upscale dress code is politely enforced here, so dress sharp when you plan your visit.

2414 San Diego Ave, San Diego, CA 92110

Plan Your Foodie Adventure at Humphreys

Need a great place to stay when making the rounds to all of these excellent Old Town eateries? Humphreys Half Moon Inn is the ideal rest stop. Our tropical resort-feel environment, marina views, excellent rates and stellar service all add up to a tasty trip. Take a look at our Special Offers page to select the San Diego travel package that’s right for you, and we’ll see you soon! 

Entrance to Humphreys Half Moon Inn