Banker’s Hill/Mission Hills
Known for its affluent reputation, Bankers Hill has long been the choice for those seeking an upscale, urban lifestyle. Perfectly placed on a hillside among the true cultural heart of San Diego, this unmatched pairing has established the legacy that defines Bankers Hill. Today, new modern mid-rises and luxury townhomes have emerged as contemporary icons destined to add their own chapters to the storied history of Bankers Hill. Located adjacent to Balboa Park, the nation’s largest urban cultural park, homeowners can walk to seventeen major museums, renowned performing arts venues, beautiful gardens, and the San Diego Zoo. Blending the best of urban living with the quiet pace of residential suburbia, residents of Bankers Hill love the walkability, easy access to Balboa Park, and outstanding sunset views over the Pacific Ocean. A quick stroll through the neighborhood and you’ll stumble across some of the best dining and boutique coffee shops in all of San Diego. Though Little Italy to the south is the undisputed “Italian Capital” of San Diego, some of the city’s best Italian cuisine can actually be found in Bankers Hill with Cucina Urbana routinely making the list of best restaurants in San Diego. To celebrate a special occasion, you can’t miss dining at Mr. A’s. Situated on top of one of the tallest buildings in Bankers Hill, you’ll be treated to outstanding views of the San Diego skyline. You can even watch the planes landing at San Diego International Airport! For dessert, head over to Extraordinary Desserts where you can indulge in an ever-expanding menu of delectable treats like the Passion Fruit Ricotta Cake or Macadamia Nut Shortbread Cookies.
North of Bankers Hill, you’ll find the historic neighborhood of Mission Hills. Though the names Bankers Hill and Mission Hills, are sometimes used interchangeably for the hillside area above downtown, Mission Hills is unique in its own right. Considered by many to be the true birthplace of the city of San Diego, El Presidio Real de San Diego was established in the area of Mission Hills in 1769. It was also the original home of Mission San Diego de Alcalá. Though neither the original fort nor the mission remains (the church was relocated east a few years after it was built), when you stand in present-day Presidio Park it’s easy to see why the Spanish chose to make their home here. The view of the ocean is one of the best in the city. Mission Hills today is known for its sweeping panoramic views of the water and downtown lights, architecturally interesting homes, and peaceful setting amongst the mature trees and landscaping. More than 300 homes in this area are designated as historic, and the Mission Hills Heritage organization works tirelessly to preserve and protect the character of this neighborhood. As you walk the quiet streets of Mission Hills, you’ll be treated to stunning examples of Colonial Revival, Craftsman, Mission Revival, Craftsman Bungalow, Spanish Revival, and Prairie School style homes. Residents of Mission Hills also enjoy being able to walk to nearby restaurants, bars, and coffee shops. A few local favorites include the Red Door, known for its exceptional Italian cuisine, and Farmer’s Bottega, which serves up a farm-to-fork menu inside an intimate eatery with rustic ambiance. Another exceptional restaurant in the area and my personal favorite, Fort Oak, serves sophisticated fusion fare including a must-try Black Garlic Pork Chop.
Below Mission Hills, you can explore more of the area’s history in Old Town San Diego. Though definitely a tourist spot, there are several museums and notable San Diego landmarks here – including the haunted Whaley House! Old Town State Park features over thirty historical sites and offers educational talks that provide a window into San Diego’s past. Known for its Mexican and Spanish-style cuisine, there are more than twenty-five restaurants in the Old Town area. Among the top-rated are Congress Café, which serves up a traditional Venezuelan menu, and Tahona Bar, San Diego’s first mezcal tasting room.
Homes in Mission Hills and Bankers Hill are as charming and varied as the people who live in them. No two homes are alike, and you won’t find a more eclectic blend of home styles anywhere else in San Diego county! From elegant Victorian homes to the warm comfort of a Craftsman to the charm of a Mid-Century Modern home, your dream home is waiting for you. Many properties in these neighborhoods feature outstanding ocean and city light views along with peaceful gardens and tranquil backyard pools. If you’d like to learn more about homes for sale in Mission Hills and Bankers Hill, please don’t hesitate to reach out to me.
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