SAN DIEGO — The luxury apartment complex on the lot in Hillcrest that once housed Pernicano’s restaurant is now leasing for early 2024 move-ins. According to rental websites, studios inside the building will start at $2,740 a month.
The 8-story facility, which will be called Denizen, comes with several high-end amenities including a rooftop lounge - complete with a firepit, large seating areas, and expansive.
There is also a resort-style pool and spa deck, a game room, a co-working space, and a gym.
Denizen’s website doesn't include many pictures inside the actual apartments, but one does show a washer and dryer inside the unit. According to rental websites, that 526-square-foot studio for $2,740 a month will be available in February.
One bedrooms that are 543 square feet start at $3,090, and two bedrooms start at $4,135.
Michael Donovan, with the Hillcrest Town Council, expects the building to rent out fast - citing its convenience for those who work in the area's large hospitals and its proximity to jobs downtown.
“It's not necessarily the prettiest building in the world, but I think it's going to provide something that's much needed in the community,” Donovan said.
Pernicano's restaurant opened in the 3800 block of 6th Avenue in 1950. Its gregarious owner, George Pernicano and his handlebar mustache, was part owner of the Chargers.
The restaurant became a popular hangout for players and celebrities, but it closed in the early 80s and then just sat there empty for decades. George refused to sell the property while it fell in disrepair.
“It was sad,” Donovan said recalling the old building. “It wasn't well-maintained.”
In 2016, at the age of 98, George passed away. In 2019, the property sold for $8.4 million. The old restaurant came down fast and now Denizen is going up. It's one of several expensive apartment complexes planned for the area, leaving Hillcrest's current residents to wonder - where are the non-luxury affordable apartments being built?
“It's crazy and it's going up,” said Gabby Maestas who lives in the area. “I moved here 5 years ago and I'm already paying $1,200 more than what I did back then so it's continuing to go up and we'll be priced out eventually too.”
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