Saturday – Rode the green trolley to Little Italy for the Saturday Mercado.
Over 160 vendors lined the street – an über farmers’ market.
Block upon block – veggies, fruits, spreads, meats, seafood, oils, crafts, food stalls…and more.
We didn’t buy anything, but did lots of people-watching. Here are fresh sea urchins ( live) that lots of people were gathering around as the vendor cut them in half and prepared them for people to sample the yellowy flesh ( or maybe eggs) inside. No chance getting Cindy to try this one J
We headed into Little Italy – Italian restaurants, colours, and Italian-speaking people. Just when we thought it was time to turn around, we stumbled upon Ballast Point Brewing Company – close enough to noon, so we decided to stop in to taste some of their brews. A great find! Staff were hugely friendly and freely offered samples to taste before ordering. Todd started with a pint of Calico Amber Ale, then sampled the Calico Pepper Amber Ale (with Guajillos + Ghost peppers = heat). I had a glass of India Pale Ale, then switched to Pumpkin Down (spices + herbs = yummy).
After some beers, we decided it was time to have some food (besides, it was lunchtime….). Great menu at Ballast Point – unique tastes offered. We shared their onion rings (beer battered and huge portion for $5) and the slow-cooked pork sliders (2 burgers with coleslaw served with potato salad for $9). By the time we left, the place was packed with the lunch crowd (a testament on how good it is).
We returned to the Gas Lamp area and made a stop at our room to doff our sweat tops – 21°C and sunny (…love this weather….).
Next, we walked to Mission Brewery housed in a former bread factory.
Mission Brewery’s name pays tribute to one of the city’s first breweries that was founded in 1913 and closed in 1919 .
Todd tried a flight of tasters with the most distinct being Bourbon Barrel (like Christmas cake in a glass – my description – at over 11% alcohol – yummy, but you wouldn’t be able to drink too much….), then he selected on the Mission Amber for a glass.
I was partial to the Dry Hopped Blonde. Again, another great spot to people-watch… After all the beer tastings, we headed back for a late afternoon nap before heading out for the evening.
Observations – there are lots of dogs in San Diego and they seem to be welcome in bars, restaurant patios and most everywhere. The dogs for the most part, seem well behaved and friendly citizens !