Why San Diego Has One Of America's Best Little Italys
By Lilly Paltsev
VACATIONS
Of the many versions of Little Italy in the U.S., San Diego's is the best. This sprawling neighborhood spans 48 square blocks, making it the biggest Little Italy in the country.
Located between the waterfront and Balboa Park, Little Italy is home to some of San Diego's most noteworthy destinations for food, fashion, art, and outdoor activities.
Little Italy is recognized as San Diego's oldest continuous-neighborhood business district, and the area has evolved into an eclectic mix of shops, restaurants, and cafés.
San Diego's Little Italy is an oasis for art lovers with a number of public installations, popular festivals, and events, such as film festivals and live entertainment.
Little Italy has six piazzas dedicated to a different aspect of the neighborhood's heritage. At the heart of the district is Piazza della Famiglia, where most events take place.
Visitors can grab a quick bite at the Little Italy Food Hall, take a culinary journey down "Top Chef Alley," or sip lattes from Pappalecco while hitting all the local boutiques.