A downtown neighborhood known for its business district and delicious restaurants (not just Italian anymore!), Little Italy in San Diego is a must-visit community.

From the world’s largest Caprese salad to the downfall of the W Hotel and the continued uprising of Burger Lounge’s reign as the true “Burger King” of San Diego, Little Italy has cooked up a satisfying serving of news.

Let’s discover who said what in this week’s Little Italy news in review.

Thomas James Parker – Little Italy businessman and Tierrasanta dad – was a suspect of a series of sexual assaults throughout San Diego County over the past year. After his last attack in Mission Valley, Thomas Parker was arrested and later found dead in jail from suicide. Details here.

Happy Birthday Little Italy Mercato!: Little Italy surely had reason to celebrate this month, with its one-year anniversary of The Mercato, the popular farmer’s market that started out with 38 booths and now has 82. How did they celebrate? San Diego Chef Robert Conaway of The Glass Door writes on his blog how he and Eric Bauer of Anthology, Joe Maganelli of Cucina Urbano, and three culinary students decided to assemble the “World’s Largest Caprese Salad” to support Washington Elementary School. After hours of slicing tomatoes and mozzarella cheese, the masterpiece was authenticated at 24 feet and 7 inches. Talk about an original birthday cake! (pictured)

Little Italy’s New Water Haven: Water has been the talk of San Diego lately, whether it’s the city’s water shortage or the implementation of new water irrigation restrictions. Thankfully, Little Italy has taken a refreshing step forward by introducing Numero Water Boutique, the newest eastern concept to hit San Diego—offering a selection of premium natural spring waters that each possess a unique mineral composition, health benefit and taste. From a H20 VIP tea/water tasting bar to a membership program which includes access to private relaxation rooms, reflexology foot massages, and featured cooking classes. Get an Insider look at Numero Water Boutique.

San Diego’s Real Burger King, Burger Lounge: The India Street sushi stop – Sushi Fix – has officially closed its doors. What’s replacing it? None other than the trendy Burger Lounge. From La Jolla to Kensington, Coronado and now Little Italy, Burger Lounge is taking over one neighborhood at a time. According to their tweets, the Little Italy Location should be up and ready the first week of July. We can’t wait—all hail the king! 

Yogurtland!: The San Diego frozen yogurt craze hit Little Italy with the opening of new serve yourself spot Yogurtland. We were sad to see Red Mango leave after its short term on India, but it’s safe to say the new Little Italy Yogurtland isn’t going anywhere.

Get Inspired: The famed Kettner Nights event series will return to San Diego on July 10, according to the Little Italy Association. Get ready to see the finest in Little Italy art and design with a walk through local businesses and studios along Kettner and beyond.

W in the Hole: It’s true—the San Diego W Hotel has gone underwater, according to SanDiegoDtown.com. The W has been hurt by the economic times and downslide in travel—and unfortunately, this has showed in their occupancy rates and revenue. Owners of the W Hotel of San Diego have defaulted on the June mortgage payment, and the property will be turned over to its lenders. What will that mean for rooftop Beach bar-goers? Absolutely “nothing,” according to general manager Stan Kaminski; the W Hotel will remain in business and continue to give its guests what they want. What a relief.

Discover more about Little Italy in San Diego.