The beloved Irish-style brewpub, located in a historic home at 903 Island Avenue, has become a fixture in the neighborhood since opening in 2015. Known for its house-brewed beers, hearty fare, and front-porch views of Petco Park, Half Door offered both locals and visitors a unique place to gather just steps from the stadium.
The closure comes ahead of a planned ownership transfer to Villains Brewing Company, the upstart Orange County brand that gained popularity after taking over the former Modern Times Leisuretown location in Anaheim. While the transition awaits final state approval of the liquor license transfer, Half Door has confirmed this weekend will be its last in operation.
In a message shared with SanDiegoVille, Half Door’s general manager said the closure is bittersweet and requested support for the team during this final stretch.
"With still some uncertainty in the process of staff retention and timing of the transfer, it would mean a lot if folks came by this weekend to support the staff with some good energy and strong tips," the GM shared. "The team is stressed, some are moving on, but there’s no ill will. Ownership has been great throughout this process—this is just part of life and business."
Founded by siblings Stacy and Dan Drayne, whose family also owns The Field Irish Pub in the Gaslamp Quarter, Half Door Brewing offered a rotating tap list of small-batch beers crafted by brewmaster Dan. From crisp IPAs to experimental sours, the beer lineup rarely repeated itself. The food menu was equally thoughtful, incorporating house brews into dishes like beer-braised short ribs and traditional fish and chips.
As for what’s next, Villains Brewing Company - led by Brad Kominek and restaurateur Isaias Hernandez - plans to bring its bold personality and culinary-forward approach to the East Village space later this year. Their Anaheim location features smoked brisket, smash burgers, and playfully named beers like "Brethren of Filth" IPA and "Saca La Bolsita" Mexican lager, all served under the tagline "brewed with villainous intent."
While Villains intends to make some design and menu updates, the venue’s historic charm and central location are expected to remain key assets. The new team has yet to announce a firm opening date, pending the completion of the liquor license transfer and remodel.
In the meantime, this weekend marks the last chance to raise a pint under the Half Door banner. The team encourages longtime patrons and first-timers alike to stop in, share memories, and show appreciation to the staff who helped define one of San Diego’s most distinctive brewpubs.
For more information on the incoming concept, visit villainsbrewingcompany.com.
Originally published on May 10, 2025.
