Oakland is a diverse, dynamic, even bumptious city, full of contradictions, that has long since refuted Gertrude Stein’s famously disparaging remark. Today, there is an awful lot of “There,” there!
Oakland is the East Bay’s largest city, with distinct and unique neighborhoods throughout its expansive – and sometimes little-known territory. I know Oakland backwards and forwards. If you don’t see a the neighborhood you’re interested in, just ask!
Nestled at the foot of the Oakland Hills, charming Montclair feels like its own little village. The tree lined streets of “Montclair Village,” (hence it’s local moniker) give it a welcoming, lively and kid-friendly vibe, with three award-winning elementary school located downtown, and highly rated public and private schools nearby.
An easy commute to Downtown Oakland, The City, or Walnut Creek, Montclair has the casual, woodsy charm of a Piedmontese village. Take a drive up one of its hillside streets, and you’ll feel miles away from it all. And, then, there are the views - and you’ll know you’re only 20 minutes from a major metropolis.
Arguably the coolest and most diverse neighborhood in North Oakland, the Temescal District is a hipster haven. Defined by Broadway, Telegraph Avenue, 51st Street, and 40th Street you’ll find a wealth of on-trend restaurants along a concentrated stretch of Telegraph Avenue, including Bakesale Betty, Pizzaiolo, Dona Tomas, and Burma Superstar.
Car-free is the way to be in Temescal with easy access to numerous transportation modalities and of course, McArthur BART - the hub of the light rail system.
This is one of the places where the Oakland Revival in Arts, Culture, and Cuisine keeps attracting regional and national attention for the artisanal foods, original art, traditional crafts, custom furniture, bespoke clothing, and everything else that makes this thriving neighborhood so attractive to creatives.
Tucked in among the numerous dining spots you’ll find plenty of relaxed cafes and unique boutiques, with a distinctly art-fueled, grungy, and youthful feel. Once considered a little “rough,” Temescal has gentrified in the last decade.
With its tree lined streets, and beautifully maintained Craftsmen and Bungalow-style homes, Glenview is a delightfully sunny neighborhood. This charming district occupies the middle section of Oakland’s Park Boulevard, with plenty of restaurants, cafes, and bars, along with quaint shops and personal service businesses.
With easy access to I-580, an AC Transit express bus to San Francisco, and informal carpooling stops, makes Glenview a terrific neighborhood for a commuter. Known for its excellent public schools.
Home to many prominent Bay Area residents, Rockridge is paradise found. This upscale, yet casual neighborhood offers residents some of Oakland’s best shopping, fine dining, AND it’s very own BART station.
Renowned for its palatial hillside estates, Rockridge homes boasts amazing views, and fetch prices well into the multi-millions. As you might imagine, the schools are excellent.
The woodsy hillside neighborhood behind the landmark Claremont Hotel has a Berkeley postal address, but actually resides in the City of Oakland. A little confusing, to be sure, but one look at the views – and the astounding custom designed homes – will get you sorted out. Close to Elmwood and Rockridge for dinner, shopping or a play!