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!

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