This vibrant East Bay neighborhood has something for everyone. Whether you’re hankering for a unique gift for a friend or let’s be real yourself , clothes and toys for your little ones, a pungent organic artisan cheese, the perfect escape novel, or a delicious cup of coffee, you need go no further than the shops lining College Avenue.
One of our favorite places to search out the little something that will add personality to your new home is Maison d’Etre. It’s full of pottery, books, textiles and trinkets and is practically one stop shopping for all of your home décor desires. Pop in next door to Nathan & Co while you’re in the neighborhood to check out their lovely objects as well.
If you’re looking for fantastic, healthy, locally-grown and raised food, your options are many. For butchers, Ver Brugge on College Ave is absolutely fantastic, as is Marin Sun Farms Butcher Shop. For amazing produce Yasai Market has been a faithful institution for ages as has Market Hall Produce. And, of course, the collection of gourmet goodies, desserts and wines offered in Market Hall will make your mouth water and your taste buds ready to feast. Or, if what you really want is a break from cooking, the cafes and restaurants in Rockridge are many, varied and lively.
The architecture and gardens found in Rockridge are lovely, so strolling the neighborhood is an enjoyable activity in and of itself. Craftsman style homes, bungalows and cottages abound, which creates a cool casual, city vibe. There are a couple of lush flower markets as well check out the Flower and the B or Wisteria Rockridge which adds to the floral beauty.
Rockridge is host to a terrific combination of public and private schools. Everything from the darling Chabot Elementary School, tucked on shady Chabot Road to the elite, private College Prep, which has been churning out ivy leaguers since 1960, and lots of choices in between can be found in the neighborhood.
And if what you really need is an escape read so you can decompress while your children churn out their multiplication tables, you’ll find three excellent sources. East Bay Books previously Diesel Books has a terrific selection of books for both children and adults, and of course Pegasus Books with both new and used reads has been a long standing institution. If fantasy is your thing, Dark Carnival Imaginative Fiction Bookstore on Claremont has exactly what you’re looking for.
This charming community is one of the neighborhoods we cover, and we’re happy to talk to you further if you’re interested in living in this vibrant enclave of Oakland.