Mister A’s on Bankers Hill in San Diego. Photo by Tony Webster via Wikimedia Commons
Manchester Financial Group announced Friday it has acquired the building in Banker’s Hill that is home to San Diego’s iconic Mister A’s Restaurant.
The Manchester Group, headed by Papa Doug Manchester, said the 13-story building was purchased for $71.5 million. The company will move its headquarters to the building.
“We are very proud to acquire this landmark property, one of the most iconic buildings on the West Coast,” said Manchester. “Mister A’s is one of San Diego’s finest and most memorable restaurants, located on the top floor of the building and provides breath taking views of America’s Finest City.”
The restaurant was opened by John Alessio in 1965. The Alessio family sold the building in 2014, and John’s son, Bud, said he was thankful for Manchester’s acquisition.
“They have a reputation for doing things right and I know will be a great shepherd with a commitment to excellence and retaining its local roots,” Alessio said.
The Manchester Group is currently located in the former Sempra Energy headquarters downtown. Earlier this month the San Diego City Council voted to lease that building for city employees under a 20-year rent-to-own agreement.
Manchester said he plans to continue a 50 year-tradition of creating a Christmas light show atop the Mister A’s building.