Where to live: Little Italy
There’s nothing little about Little Italy anymore. From atmosphere to restaurants to the price of rent, the neighborhood has gone B-I-G.
Living
The cost of taking up residence in one of San Diego’s most energetic neighborhoods has skyrocketed over the past 3 to 4 years. And when available, most units are snapped-up within 30 days. Studios in the heart of the neighborhood start between $1,500-$1,600 a month with one-bedroom units averaging $2,400 a month and two-bedrooms averaging $2,900. It’s a bit much for your average San Diego urban dweller but do the amenities make up for it?
Parking
There’s no doubt parking can be an issue. According to real estate agent Anthony Torregiani, most rental units offer one parking space, even for two-bedroom units. Parking is limited and the area could use more spots.
Events
Little Italy Mercato: 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturdays
Little Italy Summer Film Festival: Saturday’s through the end of August at Amici Park Amphitheater. Show starts at 8 p.m.
Labor Day Stickball Tournament: 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday - Sunday, Sept. 3-4
Little Italy Festa: 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Sunday, Oct., 9
Online: littleitalysandiego.com
Other amenities
“The neighborhood offers a number of ... coffee shops, breweries, plenty of restaurants, laundry, smaller markets for groceries, a locksmith and boutiques,” said Torregiani. “Most of the amenities are within walking distance.”
Vibe
From its weekly Saturday mercato - outdoor market - to various cultural festivals, Little Italy’s atmosphere is hard to beat. On any given day, tourists mingle with families and old-timers speaking their native tongue. Plenty of bars and restaurants make the neighborhood a destination spot for all San Diegans. An elementary school, bocce court and dog park add to the vibe and you’re only a short walk from Waterfront Park.
Anthony Torregiani is a real estate agent with Sal D’Acquisto Real Estate Group. He can be reached at (619) 838-0435; email: torrea@san.rr.com or online at saldacquisto.com.
Source: DiscoverSD