San Diego is a city bursting with life. Shopping, restaurants, walking trails, beaches – it is a bustling epicenter of leisure for both tourists and residents alike. One of many must-see spots is Little Italy – a thriving community downtown. This cultural enclave has a rich history defined by the proud heritage of Italian and Portuguese immigrants. Back in the spotlight after a recent revitalization, Little Italy downtown San Diego apartments highly coveted places to call home.
Tuna Capital of the Western U.S
Little Italy originated as an Italian fishing neighborhood. The proximity to the water and the influx of fishermen primarily from the Italian Riviera and Sicily earned it the title of tuna capital of the world. Historians trace the birth of the industry to 1903 when a sardine packer switched to albacore. Moving forward, the catching and canning of Tuna employed approximately 40,000 San Diegans at its height. A high demand for canned albacore only accelerated the growth of San Diego’s third-largest industry at the time. Additionally, the influx of Italian immigrants ignited the spread of Italian culture and cuisine in the area. Although leading canneries closed their doors in the 1980s due to quotas and foreign competition, a “Pacific to Plate” initiative currently aims to revive commercial fishery.
Decline and Rebirth
Following the decline of the tuna industry, Little Italy faced another blow with the construction of the I-5 freeway. Although the community began to wilt in the late 1970s and early 80s, the Little Italy Association (LIA) of San Diego put an end to three decades of economic stagnation with a revolution of sorts. With the help of the organization, Little Italy’s historic charm was revived and attracted award-winning, traditional Italian eateries and new, highly desired housing. Luxury apartments in San Diego allow dwellers to enjoy a thriving, rejuvenated downtown.
A Cultural Revival
Following successful beautification efforts and economic initiatives, Little Italy became a glowing example of a revived legacy community. A large part of this was due to the embracing of small businesses. Residents and tourists alike enjoy renowned, locally owned eateries and shops. The area also hosts a large number of festivities throughout the year, celebrating arts and culture. Every year the Little Italy Carnevale draws crowds to take in a Venetian mask display. The Little Italy FESTA! is another popular event. It features live Italian music (traditional and contemporary), al fresco dining, arts and crafts, and more. There are also weekly staples such as the Little Italy Mercato, a weekly farmer’s market featuring fresh produce, fish, pastries, flowers, and art – all from local farmers and vendors. There is no shortage of entertainment in this district.
Make Ariel’s San Diego Little Italy Apartments Your New Home
San Diego’s Little Italy offers the best of both worlds. As a resident you can enjoy the perks of modern city living while appreciating the rich culture of a historic enclave. Ariel Apartments’s luxury downtown San Diego apartments offers access the largest Little Italy in the nation just below your balcony.
