Make a Break for It: 10 Questions for Half Moon Bay Hotelier Jamie Barber

HL: The Inn has been remodeled entirely in a Spanish/Latin American style. Where did this inspiration come from?

JB: The building’s architecture is a Spanish Revival style, built in 1932.  The building has an Old World feel that I wanted to maintain with the interior design.

HL: You worked for United Airlines for many years- any favorite travel destinations?

JB: My favorite travel destinations are France, Italy and Greece.    I love the food, architecture and the lifestyle of Europe.

HL: Running the inn is a full time job- if you could take a weekend off and visit another hotel in the Bay Area, where would you go?

JB: I would probably go to San Francisco and stay at The Hotel Monaco or one of the Starwood’s properties, since I have Starwood points.  The Hotel Monaco is also dog friendly and some the W’s and Westin’s are dog friendly as well.

HL: How do you relax in Half Moon Bay?

JB: I enjoy my yoga classes at the Enso Studio.  Now, staying home and having dinner guests over is my way of taking a break.  I also enjoy going over the hill and meeting friends there.

HL: With the restaurant It’s Italia at your doorstep, what’s your favorite Italian dish?

JB: It’s hard to beat its Italia’s spaghetti and meatballs.  The linguine and clams are also one of my favorites.

HL: What is the best restaurant in Half Moon Bay for dinner? Brunch?

JB: There are several great places to eat in Half Moon Bay.  Its Italia and Pasta Moon are both on Main Street and Mezza Luna is in Princeton.  They all serve great dinners.  Cetrella’s has a Sunday Brunch as well as Navio at the Ritz Carlton.

HL: With wineries right down the road in Half Moon Bay, what is your favorite wine to imbibe?

JB: My favorite chardonnay is Rombauer.  I usually ask the waiter to select a nice red Italian wine for me as the list is always changing.