Little Italy

How do you best describe Little Italy? Not what it looks like or smells like, but what it feels like. For me, Little Italy feels like one of those grandiose, timeless fountains. Ya know, the unmissable kind that you’d discover in a piazza on a warm summer’s day, in someplace romantic and unforgettable like Florence or Rome. The kind of sight you just stop and take in, knowing full well you’re not dreaming, but you’re still not going to pinch yourself, just in case. It’s beautiful, yet bold. Orate, yet full of adrenaline. Where sensuality and masculinity seem to meet at every corner — carved out a century ago, but still breathing today. Like the fountain, this place remains flowing with life. Eternally fresh. Reinventing itself with every watery splash that sprouts into the crisp air. The atmosphere is undeniable, unapologetic and forever optimistic.

Located in the northwest district of Downtown, Little Italy represents more than just a culture. It’s the oldest continuous-neighborhood business district in San Diego. In fact, it has been a stable ethnic business and residential community since the 1920’s. At its peak, over 6,000 Italian families lived here and worked in the flourishing tuna industry. Today, both Italian American and non-Italian owned businesses make the neighborhood thrive, not only to represent San Diego, but also serve as a model to the few Little Italys’ that still remain throughout the country. Amongst a multitude of shops, eateries, galleries and cafes, you’ll find a selection of homes — from luxury high-rises to craftsman cottages, all located in a part of town that is truly priceless.

Little Italy is rooted in optimism, strength and support. In other words, you feel like family when you live here. You can count on liveliness during the day and bank on peacefulness when the sun goes down. On Saturday, hit up the famous Little Italy Mercato—a dynamic farmers market where locals shop for fresh produce along with gourmet goods, flowers, crafts and ready-made foods. Any other day or night, find yourself engulfed in San Diego’s most dynamic food and drink scene. Kettner Boulevard, otherwise known as “Top Chef Alley,” features both renowned and up-an-coming culinary masters. And India Street is lined with a decadent display of eateries featuring cuisine of both southern and northern Italy. From craft beer hot spots, like Ballast Point and Bottle Craft, to watering holes like The Waterfront Bar and Grill, which has been pouring local brews since 1934, Little Italy has something to wet any whistle.

Here’s a few things I recommend to make your Little Italy experience even more memorable.