The Best of Bankers Hill

Bankers Hill, a notorious little neighborhood in San Diego, has stuck out for its unique and distinct charm. Sometimes referred to as Park West, this little town is located near Balboa Park and is bordered by Hillcrest, Downtown, and Little Italy. With booming attractions available all around, Bankers Hill has been underrated for its own captivating activities. Ranging from spectacular restaurants to darling shops, this little district offers an abundant amount of family-bonding opportunities to try. Unsure of all the possibilities? We've got you covered!

Hidden in the residential hills, tucked away from the bustling activity of Hillcrest, the Spruce Street Suspension Bridge provides a scenic escape from the stresses of everyday responsibilities. Located just past the intersection of Spruce St. and 1st Ave., this "secret" landmark is a great place for those looking for a mini adventure. With views overlooking the Kate Sessions Canyon, this spot is probably not the best option for those with a fear of heights. However, if you follow the dirt path just below the bridge, there is a small hiking trail that leads to a tiny seating area, making it a great spot for a quick picnic. 

The bridge was engineered by Edwin Capps and built in 1912. It was originally designed to be a pedestrian passageway that made it more convenient and accessible to reach the trolley lines on Fourth and Fifth Ave. The Spruce Street Suspension Bridge is 375 feet long and is upheld by steel suspension cables, which are anchored to massive concrete piers hidden beneath the soil at both ends. It also gets inspected every 3 months to ensure safety and stability. Despite its strong reinforcements, this bridge does sway slightly from both the wind and heavy footsteps, making it somewhat nerve-wracking but ideal for those thrill-seekers who enjoy a little excitement.

After a quick visit to the Spruce Street Suspension Bridge, you will probably work up a bit of an appetite. For a cute farmers market that specializes in homemade goods, a visit to Back To Roots is an absolute must. This artisan food market exhibits a wide selection of fresh pastas, sauces, cheeses, meats, spices, teas, vegetables, breads, desserts, and much more––all made with the highest quality and freshest ingredients available. All their items are hormone and chemical-free, making them delicious, though susceptible to a shorter shelf life.

Back To Roots also produces a variety of Spanish sandwiches called "Bocatas" which can be served cold or hot. Bocatas are consist of meat, tuna, cheese, chorizo sausage, or an omelet between two pieces of bread. They are simple but oh-so good and make for a great meal on the go. 

If you’re looking for something a bit more formal for dining, then CUCINA Urbana is your best bet. This Italian restaurant has it all, from its eclectic ambiance to superb service and exceptional food. Located a short distance from Balboa Park on Laurel St., this local gem boasts comfort and familiarity by combining a country farmhouse style with a variety of contemporary art installations. As for the food, you can’t go wrong with anything on the menu, but you must try their in-house pastas or bread, all of which are made from scratch. My personal absolute favorite is their stuffed fried squash blossoms––with delicate but mouthwatering flavor, you’ll want to order seconds. If you’re a wine fan, then you’ll be pleasantly impressed with their extravagant wine varieties that have been imported from locations all across the Americas and Europe, with an emphasis on Italian wine. 

After a decadent meal at CUCINA Urbana, if you still have room for dessert, you have to visit Extraordinary Desserts. This little shop will exceed all expectations when it comes to dessert. With gourmet specialties such as their chocolate croissant bread pudding or their chocolate lemon bon bon, your sweet tooth will be satisfied. If you don't like chocolate, don’t worry there are still delicacies for you too such as their passion fruit ice cream or their array of pastries which include scones, muffins, danish, croissants, buns, strudels, and more. They also carry a wide selection of teas and coffee drinks, as well as dessert wines or beers. 

This heavenly dessert utopia was created by Karen Krasne, a San Diego native, who studied pastry making at the Cordon Bleu and visits France regularly to train with the masters at LeNotre and Bellouet Conseil. All of her hard work has paid off, since she has been honored as the featured dessert chef for the James Beard House in 2002; Forbes Magazine called her one of the "Top 10 Pastry Chefs in America" in 2003. With a resume like this, you know her desserts are to die for. 

Whether you happen to be in the area or are looking for something fun to do, Bankers Hill is filled with tons of activities. From exploring the Spruce Street suspension bridge to dining at San Diego’s best restaurants or even browsing the local specialty market, there will never be a dull moment. Filled with booming attractions surrounding its borders, Bankers Hill is often underestimated and undervalued. However, this once affluent neighborhood still has much to offer. With a unique history and overwhelming appeal, this little city will be sure to keep you amused day or night.