Port O’Call | Gifts & Treats From Far and Near in San Marino

PHOTO: Dan Rider | San Marino Weekly | Port O' Call - San Marino

He calls himself “the chief memory maker” of San Marino.”

“I bring a lot of joy for people,” said J.D. Hornberger, owner of the iconic Port O’Call, which he says sells “the good, the better….and the best.”

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PHOTO: Dan Rider | San Marino Weekly | Port O’ Call – San Marino

The store has been around in one iteration or another since 1957 and he and his wife, Nancy, are the the 4th owners. Port O’Call specializes in fine china, crystal, and as a bridal registry.

They are also known for their “customer service and eclectic selection of merchandise.”

“We have been a mainstay of this community since the late 50’s” said Hornberger, who reminded us about the store’s iconic boxes that he restarted when Suzy Crowell and he re- launched Port O’Call.

Hornberger prides himself on the store’s endless supply of saltwater taffy, which many customers often drop by just to enjoy a quick piece.

PHOTO: Dan Rider | San Marino Weekly | Port O’ Call – San Marino

His top-selling item is dill-pickled peanuts.

“We sell hundreds of cans every year,” said Hornberger.

PHOTO: Dan Rider | San Marino Weekly | Port O’ Call – San Marino
PHOTO: Dan Rider | San Marino Weekly | Port O’ Call – San Marino
PHOTO: Dan Rider | San Marino Weekly | Port O’ Call – San Marino