Overview: Taste ‘N’ Tinnis

Hillcrest Business Association (HBA) Marketing Coordinator Natalie Starr noted Taste ‘N’ Tinis began in 2009 after the Association’s executive director recognized how much the community loved their spring tasting event, Taste of Hillcrest. 

If you’re looking for some grown-up fun to ring in the holiday spirit in Hillcrest, look no further than Taste ‘N’ Tinis.

The yearly holiday 21+ event rolls into the community on Thursday, Dec. 11.

Hillcrest Business Association marketing coordinator Natalie Starr said that Taste ‘N’ Tinis began in 2009, after the Association’s executive director recognized how much the community loved their spring tasting event, Taste of Hillcrest. 

“We wanted to bring that same energy into the holiday season while putting a brighter spotlight on our local retail shops,” Starr said. “The idea was simple and fun: sip while you shop.”

What started with just 12 participating locations has grown into a neighborhood-wide celebration with around 25 stops each year, she said.

“This December marks our 16th year, and the tradition keeps getting more Taste ‘N’ Tinis is tied in to the Association’s Shop Hillcrest for the holidays campaign, which encourages people to support local businesses throughout the season,” Starr added.

“Every time someone shops at a participating Shop Hillcrest location, they’re entered to win a Hillcrest shopping spree, and Taste ‘N’ Tinis serves as a double-entry day.”

According to Starr, the majority of participating retail shops also offer exclusive in-store discounts, making it the perfect opportunity to get some holiday shopping done while sipping on mini festive ‘tinis.

“Restaurants offer up seasonal bites and typically offer drink specials during the event,” Starr said. “It’s a night where people get to sip, shop, stroll, and truly experience the neighborhood.

“That boost in foot traffic and engagement translates to increased sales and long-term visibility for our small businesses, which is exactly why this event was created.”

The HBA is welcoming two new businesses that opened their doors in 2025, including Frenchy’s Hideout, offering up their famous sangria, and Good News, which will be serving up non-alcoholic mocktails.

As Starr sees it, the event is a chance to renew friendships and good times in Hillcrest and also discover some new offerings.

“What guests love most is the sense of discovery,” Starr said. “So many people tell us they found their new must-try restaurant or boutique during Taste ‘N’ Tinis.

“Between the nightlife, community spirit, and the one-of-a-kind local businesses, it’s the perfect only-in Hillcrest experience.”

Come out to Taste ‘N’ Tinis in your best holiday wear. (Photo by Brittany Leach)

Among the areas business owners participating in this year’s event is Patric Stillman, artist and owner of The Studio Door.

“The gallery has been part of San Diego’s arts community since 2014, and we’ve proudly called Hillcrest home for the past seven years,” Stillman said.

“Taste ’N’ Tinis is one of those events that reminds us why Hillcrest is such a special place,” he added. “As San Diego’s official entertainment district and the City’s designated LGBTQ Cultural District, the neighborhood thrives on connection, celebration, and any good excuse to come together.”

Stillman went on to note that participating in the event is a great way to open their doors for the holidays.

“With a cocktail in hand, guests can satisfy their curiosity about the creative process by talking directly with the 17 artists who work in our studios and browse affordable, one-of-a-kind pieces in our Holiday Art Market,” Stillman said. “It’s a chance to share what we do in a casual, festive setting. The event is a wonderful entry to new friendships, new collectors, and more people discovering the value of visual arts in their own backyard.”

For those not aware, Stillman said that The Studio Door is a living canvas of creativity that flows into the community. 

“Behind every piece on the wall is a real person, a local artist, and a story waiting to be discovered,” Stillman said.

“We’re also a nationally certified LGBT Business Enterprise, and we take pride in contributing to Hillcrest’s vibrant cultural fabric. Whether you’re an art lover, a curious explorer, or someone simply looking for a spark of inspiration, you’ll find a warm welcome here.”

The Studio Door is open to the public from Tuesday through Saturday from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m., with special events happening throughout the holiday season.

“Any excuse to bring people together around art — we’re in,” Stillman added.

Another business owner looking forward to Dec. 11 is Gioia Marino of Gioia’s Room Boutique. The business has been a part of the Hillcrest community for nearly 14 years.

The event allows attendees to visit and shop a number of Hillcrest businesses. (Photo by Brittany Leach)

“I have been a proud participant of Taste ‘N’ Tinis for the past 12 consecutive years,” Marino said.

“I make it a point to always have my business be a part of this event and encourage my neighboring businesses to participate, too.

Being a styling house of inclusion in the heart of Hillcrest, Gioia’s Room Boutique offers complimentary alterations with purchase, curated unique styles, handmade accessories by local makers and personal styling. They also have a touch of previously gently loved items in store, too.

Marino said that the event is an excellent way to promote Hillcrest’s small businesses for the holidays.

“It is extremely beneficial for my boutique because it brings hundreds of patrons (from new customers to returning) through my doors during the event itself,” Marino added.

“Those customers shop during the event and are inclined to come back in the weeks and months after to shop and get styled at my boutique in the future.”

“Gioia’s Room is a proud participant in all local Hillcrest events — including Taste of Hillcrest, City Fest, and countless others,” Marino said. “We have been known to participate in select events outside of our community, as well.”

Whether you’re a part of the Hillcrest community or only visiting on Dec. 11, Taste ‘N’ Tinis should add some zest to your holiday spirit.

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