Fiesta de Reyes, San Diego

One of the main dining and shopping marketplaces in the heart of Old Town San Diego, the vibrant Fiesta de Reyes – where “history lives and the fiesta lasts forever” – offers an exciting entertainment experience that is fun for the whole family.

The place is run by veteran restaurateur, Chuck Ross, dubbed as “Old Town’s Turnaround Specialist”, who has worked tirelessly since 2009 to create an unmatched festive ambiance in Old Town San Diego State Historic Park. Bringing his more than 30 years of experience in the destination restaurant business, Ross named the marketplace Fiesta de Reyes, which means “festival of the kings,” renovated two of the aging restaurants and many of the 19 surrounding shops.

Fiesta de Reyes has just the right size for spending a decent amount of time exploring – it's not too small but also not overwhelming. Walking around here you will find three distinct restaurants, a 10-room boutique hotel, and a wide array of shopping opportunities offered by unique, locally-owned souvenir and specialty stores. The shops offer an assortment of artisan goods, handmade jewelry, toys and other local items.

A number of authentic eateries – like Casa de Reyes and Barra Barra Saloon – are known for serving some of the best Mexican food and margaritas in town (try their very tasty chips and salsa, or some pork tamales!). Around the courtyard, the tile shop has beautiful hand-painted décor, and if you are a fan of chocolate or root beer, the specialty offerings here won't disappoint.

The area also offers strolling mariachis, folklórico dancing, year-round events, and more!