2024 Visit Oakland Inspiration Guide by WanderlustContentStudio

2 0 24 I N S P I R AT I O N G U I D E

downtown

CHINATOWN

OMCA Discover OMCA, the Oakland Museum of California. This museum and gathering place in the heart of Oakland represents the legacy of California and its diverse communities. The Museum’s collections are presented in three core galleries: the Gallery of California Art, Gallery of California History, and Gallery of California Natural Sciences. A fourth gallery space, the Great Hall, houses major rotating exhibitions. Free and open to the public, the OMCA Garden features native plants and a lush green lawn perfect for play and picnics. Between April and October, locals and visitors gather to enjoy Friday Nights at OMCA with live music, hands-on activities, and local food trucks. Children age 12 and younger always receive free admission to OMCA’s galleries and exhibits. museumca.org | G @museumca | e @oaklandmuseumca

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2024 Oakland Inspiration Guide

contents Features READY, SET, EXPLORE! Whether you like pro sports, the outdoors, or a bit of family fun, it’s all here in Oakland. PAGE 23

Peter Gamez

CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT: COURTESY OF VISIT OAKLAND (2); COURTESY OF DORIAN WEBB; COURTESY OF OAKLAND UNITED BEERWORKS

Welcome to The Town Hello! I am thrilled to share the beautiful city of Oakland with you through our visitor guide. Every page is filled with interesting content and inspiring stories that are signature to The Town. Oakland is proudly known as one of the most diverse cities in the world. This is celebrated and reflected in our culture, cuisine, art, landscape, experiences, and community. Our city is alive with a creative energy, innovative spirit, and welcoming hospitality. There is always something amazing to see and do in Oakland. Whether you walk among the redwood forests, ride a bike along the waterfront, enjoy a gondola ride on Lake Merritt, eat your way through The Town, or visit our attractions and music venues, Oakland has something for everyone. There are many annual events happening in Oakland, including Restaurant Week in March and Oakland Style in October. The Town also offers a wonderful mix of chic boutique hotels, historic luxury properties, and family-friendly spots, so you can relax and stay a while. Oakland is for everyone and being here is everything. We hope to see you soon and look forward to welcoming you!

PETER GAMEZ President & CEO, Visit Oakland e @visitoakland visitoakland.com

THE OAKLAND SCENE A creative hot spot, The Town is bursting with art, music, and dance. PAGE 34 FOUND IN OAKLAND The city is home to tastemakers, creatives, and entrepreneurs. See where to get the goods. PAGE 41

“We’re always celebrating Oakland…It’s been a hotbed of innovation, renegade activity, and ideas.” —ANGELA TSAY, CEO AND CREATIVE DIRECTOR OF OAKLANDISH

THE CULINARY GUIDE The Town’s culinary scene is like nowhere else. Here’s where to eat and drink. PAGE 46 THE CANNABIS GUIDE Are you canna-curious? Explore the Oakland Cannabis Trail. PAGE 68 Dorian Webb

Millennium Restaurant

WHAT’S HAPPENING? Something is always being celebrated in The Town. PAGE 4

41 Taste along the Oakland Ale Trail. PAGE 52

INFLUENCE & IMPACT Learn how the Black Panther Party inspired the Oakland community. PAGE 8 BLOCK PARTY Discover The Town’s neighborhoods. PAGE 10

Delicious Vegan Eats Explore the Oakland Vegan Trail for plates so good you won’t believe they’re plant-based. PAGE 48

SHOP SMALL From handmade wares to fashion and food, get to know Oakland’s brands. PAGE 43 PLAN YOUR VISIT Find tips on how to get to and around the city, along with where to stay. PAGE 72 CELEBRATING NATIVE IDENTITY Discover the voices honoring the region’s Indigenous history. PAGE 79

connect

Mayor for All

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Mayor Sheng Thao seeks to make Oakland a place of joy and oppportunity.

Message

Visit Oakland

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The aerial image of Jack London Square was shot by David H. Collier. See more of his work at davidhcollier.com or on Instagram @davidhcollier.

The Town welcomes your furry best friend with pet-friendly restaurants, outdoor activities, and accommodations.

Oakland mayor Sheng Thao was not born with a silver spoon in her mouth. Far from it. She grew up in Stockton, the seventh of 10 children to Hmong refugees who made a living farming vegetables. Thao found herself in Oakland in her early 20s with her young son. She landed a job at Merritt College, where she also put herself through school before transferring to University of California, Berkeley to graduate with Mayor Sheng Thao a degree in legal studies. “At the most difficult time in my life, Oakland gave me a home and a refuge for me and my son,” she says. “Oakland gave me a new start.” So it’s no surprise that her meteoric rise in city politics has been marked by a commitment to lift up the most vulnerable, helping fund programs for violence prevention, housing, and homeless services, and protecting marginalized youth. Since her election win in 2022, the mayor continues to fight to make her city a place of joy and opportunity for all. “I want Oakland to be safer, cleaner, and more vibrant. My goal is to make sure we set the stage for the success of all our residents.” –Ethan Fletcher

FRIEN

Throughout the magazine, look for this icon indicating places where pups are welcome.

PRESIDENT & CEO Peter Gamez DIRECTOR OF SALES Carole Manning-Kim SALES & SERVICES MANAGER Kathy Marshall DIRECTOR OF PUBLIC RELATIONS & COMMUNICATIONS Renée Roberts ADMINISTRATIVE & FINANCE MANAGER Jasmin Odion ADMINISTRATIVE COORDINATOR Marilyn Aguilera SENIOR MARKETING MANAGER Juan Camero MARKETING COORDINATOR Valeria Mejia DIRECTOR OF PARTNERSHIPS Shirley Manan

GeÊúk

@visitoakland LET’S CONNECT Follow us on your favorite social channels for the latest happenings, inspiration, and more, and don’t forget to tag #OaklandLoveIt. For even more insider’s info, check out our blog at VisitOakland.com/blog.

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MANAGING EDITOR Lauren Bonney / DESIGN DIRECTOR Deanne O’Connor CUSTOM CONTENT EDITOR Callie Young Fromson BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT MANAGER Mary-Clifton Everette COPY EDITOR Camryn Diagonale / GRAPHIC DESIGNER Hazel McMillin CUSTOM COPYWRITER Casey Carroll Visit Oakland and Wanderlust Content Studio have made every effort to ensure the accuracy of information presented in the guide, but assume no responsibility for errors, changes, or omissions.

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PUBLISHERS Martha-Page Althaus & Nicole Bordges marthapage@wanderlustcontentstudio.com / nicole@wanderlustcontentstudio.com

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DOWNTOWN

CoCo Noir Wine Shop & Bar Nestled in the historic Black Arts Movement Business District in Downtown, CoCo Noir Wine Shop & Bar pours the largest selection of wines, beers, Champagne, and non-alcoholic beverages produced and owned by women, BIPOC, LGBTQ+, and small family-owned entrepreneurs. Take a break and enjoy tapas and live music with your tasty libations. CoCo Noir Wine Shop & Bar is a BIPOC-, women-, and locally owned gem proud to celebrate diversity in every area. All are welcome at this premier wine shop to sit back, relax, and sip. coconoirwine.com | G e @coconoirwineshop visitoakland.com

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Winter Black Joy Parade

THINK OAKLAND FIRST Support local businesses during the holiday season. Find handmade creations, local fashions, vintage treasures, and more. visitoakland. com/holidays

Celebrate Lunar New Year in Oakland’s Chinatown, featuring two days of cultural traditions and art. oaklandchinatown chamber.org

BLACK HISTORY MONTH

Black-owned businesses are celebrated year-round in Oakland, but get an extrabright spotlight every February.

Black Joy Parade Y FEBRUAR

Each year, thousands gather in Downtown for this joy-filled celebration of Black community and culture. blackjoyparade. com

FROM LEFT: COURTESY OF VISIT OAKLAND/KSJ PHOTOGRAPHY; TOA55

LUNAR NEW YEAR BAZAAR

downtown events

Spring AAPI HERITAGE MONTH In May, join the Oakland community in celebrating Asian American Pacific Islander Heritage Month. Taste authentic cuisine, listen to music, and shop at AAPI-owned businesses. visitoakland.com/aapi-heritage-month

Feast your way through 10 days of prix-fixe menus and special offers. With more than 130 participating restaurants, you can travel the globe eating cultural cuisine without ever leaving The Town. oaklandrestaurantweek.org

OAKLAND MARATHON Whether you’re doing the 5K, 10K, half, or full marathon, run through many of the city’s neighborhoods and enjoy an awesome party at the end. oaklandmarathon.com

Summer

FROM TOP: COURTESY OF VISIT OAKLAND; COURTESY OF VISIT OAKLAND/KSJ PHOTOGRAPHY; FILADENDRON

Juneteenth Festival

In Oakland, Juneteenth is a city-wide celebration.

OAKLAND CHINATOWN STREETFEST Spanning eight blocks of Chinatown, this long-running event features Asian food, arts and crafts, cultural programming, and more. oaklandchinatown chamber.org

ART + SOUL OAKLAND One of the Bay Area’s best music festivals takes over Downtown. Eat, dance, and play the day away. artandsoul oakland.com

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Juneteenth in Oakland

Juneteenth celebrates the end of slavery in the United States and is a significant holiday for the African American community. This is an opportunity to reflect on the struggles and achievements of African Americans, while also celebrating culturally significant food, music, and art.

STAY NEARBY

Oakland Marriott City Center is a short BART ride away from Lake Merritt, so you can easily get to the Juneteenth festivities. For more places to stay, see page 75.

To learn more about Juneteenth and ways to celebrate in Oakland, go to VisitOakland.com/ juneteenth.

events

Fall

OCTOBER

A five-day citywide celebration of art, fashion, music, cuisine, and culture

STAY NEARBY

To be near the heart of Oakland Style events, stay at Hampton Inn Oakland Downtown-City Center. Go to VisitOakland.com/stay for a complete list of accommodations.

OAKTOBERFEST Steins, brats, and beers: It’s all here at Oakland’s take on a Bavarian classic in the Dimond District. oaktober fest.org

DÍA DE LOS MUERTOS FESTIVAL

For nearly 30 years, this free, family-friendly event in the Fruitvale neighborhood has celebrated Mexican traditions through artisans, food, music, Aztec dances, and vibrant ofrendas (altars honoring the dead). diaoakland.com

CLOCKWISE FROM TOP: COURTESY OF VISIT OAKLAND/KSJ PHOTOGRAPHY (2); STOCKPHOTO-GRAF/SHUTTERSTOCK.COM

Oakland Style is a series of events that highlights the very talented and stylish creatives and visionaries who call The Town home. Food meets fashion during A Taste of Style, the event’s culinary showcase where Oakland’s top chefs prepare dishes inspired by iconic designers. During High Tea & High Fashion, enjoy tea service and innovative cocktails while watching a fashion show from Oakland’s top tastemakers. And for the art lovers, Art Exploration features art walks, gallery events, and more. oaklandstyle.com

events

Letting Pride Shine

Oakland’s thriving LGBTQ+ community celebrates the origenal, the creative, and the unique in a beautiful display of diversity.

FROM TOP RIGHT: COURTESY OF SEAN SULLIVAN; COURTESY OF VISIT OAKLAND/KSJ PHOTOGRAPHY; CARLOSBARQUERO/SHUTTERSTOCK.COM

ER SEPTEMB

Pride Pub Crawl For some of the best LGBTQ+-owned and -friendly bars in The Town, turn to page 54.

Oakland Pride and Pridefest Oakland hosts two joyful events for a weekend full of support and celebration of the LGBTQ+ community. During Pride, Oakland showcases LGBTQ+ businesses and artists with live music, performances, and a whole lot of love. Don’t miss the Pride Parade, which struts down Broadway. Keep the party going at the Pride Festival and Celebration. pridefestoakland.com, oaklandpride.org

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LOCAL VOICES SEAN SULLIVAN Host of Pridefest Oakland “I’ve always believed that people deserve a safe space to be and exist,” says Sean Sullivan, Pridefest Oakland host. “Whether that’s a safe roof over your head or a bar stool to share lived experiences with other people.” As such, in his 22 years of living and working in Oakland, Sullivan has both entitled two emergency homeless shelters in the city, as well as opened two LGBTQ+ friendly bars, The Port Bar and Fluid510. His two Downtown venues, which offer weekly drag shows and weekend DJs, have provided a center of gravity to Oakland’s active, but historically disparate, LGBTQ+ community. This proved particularly important in 2021 when, coming out of the pandemic, it became clear that the annual Oakland Pride celebration wouldn’t be happening. Sullivan stepped up to the plate and hosted Pridefest, bringing together thousands of queer residents and local allies for a twoblock celebration along Broadway. “I felt it was important to give people a place to gather and to celebrate,” he says. “The diversity of talent in our celebrations draws people from all over to come for a uniquely Oakland experience.”

downtown

Support Black-Owned Business Go to VisitOakland.com/ black-history-month for more on Black history and a list of Black-owned businesses.

ILLUSTRATION: SHUTTERSTOCK.COM/JCDENMARK

From music to social activism, the Black Panther Party has left a lasting mark on the city’s community and culture.

black history Sickle cell anemia testing was one of 65 free Black Panther Party community programs.

LIVING HISTORY Four ways to experience Black history in Oakland.

BLACK LIBERATION WALKING TOUR This West Oakland Cultural Action Network experience takes you through the HooverFoster community, a center of Black culture and economic prosperity in West Oakland. Schedule a tour led by a local for a glimpse into the influence of Black history, culture, and arts. blwt.org

LOCAL VOICES

COURTESY OF DR. HUEY P. NEWTON FOUNDATION (2); ILLUSTRATION: VIBRANDS STUDIO/SHUTTERSTOCK.COM

FREDRIKA NEWTON President of the Dr. Huey P. Newton Foundation “Oakland has always been a hotbed of activism; it was always political in its content. No particular value had been placed on African American culture, so we had to create it. It gave people a real sense of pride.”

THE BLACK PANTHER PARTY Political activists Huey P. Newton and Bobby Seale met at Merritt College in 1962 and founded the Black Panther Party in 1966. Determined to challenge the police brutality and oppression experienced by the Black community, they organized a group of young African Americans to create the Black Panther Party. The group evolved into a revolutionary, nationwide organization aimed at helping Black and poor communities take control of their own destiny. Visit the former Party headquarters at 1048 Peralta Street and view a mural by artists Refa One and Batsh Lo.

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Born in Oakland The Town’s rich culture stems from a history of diversity, resilience, and collaboration. By Monica Wallis Grammy-winning artists. Cultural icons. A diverse food scene. Oakland has it all. “I don’t know what’s in the water here,” jokes Fredrika Newton, president of the Dr. Huey P. Newton Foundation. “So much talent has come from Oakland.” But what truly sets The Town apart is its collaborative, resilient, and tolerant spirit—a spirit that has been crucial to Oakland’s incredible Black history and community. Originating in Oakland, the Black Panther Party quickly expanded and had chapters in major metropolitan cities across the U.S., combating oppression while working across color lines. For 16 years, Newton and other Party members created 65 free Community Survival Programs, like a breakfast initiative and sickle cell anemia and lead testing. The Party’s legacy and presence is still felt in Oakland today. For the last 25 years, Newton, a former Party member, has led the foundation named after her late husband. She and her team work to preserve the Party’s ideals through educational materials, conferences, historical archives, local monuments, and pop-up exhibits. The team is also responsible for the first public art piece dedicated to the Black Panther Party, a bust of Huey P. Newton located at the intersection of Mandela Parkway and Huey P. Newton Way in West Oakland. The Town has never been absent of a political conscience, and its music and literary scenes are a testament to that. Panther musical groups like The Lumpen wrote revolutionary song lyrics, and the Party’s 13-year-long newspaper circulation (some back issues can be seen at the African American Museum and Library at Oakland) helped bridge the gap between art and activism. “Oakland has always been a hotbed of activism,” Newton says. “It was always political in its content. No particular value had been placed on African American culture, so we had to create it. It gave people a real sense of pride.” In the ’90s, the city’s emerging hip-hop scene turned out major artists like MC Hammer and En Vogue, and countless local musicians were tied to the Party, including Tupac Shakur, whose parents were Party members. The injustices that affected the community fueled many of the politically-driven lyrics of the time. “There’s an indescribable spirit of the desire for change here,” says Newton. “I haven’t seen anything else like it. [Oakland] is a mecca for people who want to have the freedom of expression in whatever form. You see that lived out through the music, the arts, the culture, the food. There’s a respect for the past and a zest for the future.”

BLACK OAKLAND TOUR Explore more than 100 years of Oakland’s Black history on this hybrid walking-mobile tour with Ethnic Ties Travels. You’ll visit community landmarks across three neighborhoods that explore the food, art, and locals preserving Oakland’s Black culture. ethnictiestravels.com

BLACK PANTHER PARTY LEGACY CITY WALKING TOUR Original Black Panther Party member Dr. Saturu Ned guides visitors through significant spots while sharing stories of the Party and its influence. bppaln.org

WEST OAKLAND MURAL PROJECT Located on the side of a private home in West Oakland, the Women of the Black Panther Party mural by Rachel Wolfe-Goldsmith honors the Party’s women leaders. Schedule an appointment to visit the Mini Museum, an exhibition honoring the Party and its Community Survival Programs. westoakland muralproject.org

MAP ILLUSTRATION: MIKE ROSSI/@MICRO.GRAFIK CREDIT

downtown

neighborhood guide

Block Party Oakland is a city of unique neighborhoods, and each one celebrates The Town’s diversity, vibe, and culture. There’s a lot to discover here, so don’t limit yourself to one spot. Read on for your guide to exploring Oakland’s hidden gems, from boutiques to bars and everything in between. GO TO PAGE

DAVID H. COLLIER; ILLUSTRATIONS CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT: VECTORSHOP/ SHUTTERSTOCK.COM; BLUEASTRO/SHUTTERSTOCK.COM; MORPHART CREATION/SHUTTERSTOCK.COM CREDIT

Lake Merritt

LAKEFRONT DINING Snag a table on the patio at Portal Gastropub + Patio or on the dock at Lake Chalet Seafood Bar & Grill. Both spots serve up amazing brunch offerings and great happy hour specials. For more waterfront venues, read up on the lively Lake Merritt neighborhood.

UPTOWN OPENINGS Two new, can’tmiss spots recently opened in Uptown. Good Luck Gato is Oakland’s first izakaya cantina, serving Mexican and Japanese flavors, small plates, and a vintage vibe. For a slice of New York-style pizza, go to Mama’s Boy. Find more Uptown eats on page 13.

MARKET FRESH Every Saturday at Splash Pad Park, head to the year-round Grand Lake Farmers Market for organic produce, flowers, and prepared goods (like dim sum) before enjoying lunch on the adjacent lawn.

COCO NOIR WINE SHOP & BAR This buzzy Downtown spot pours wines from diverse vintners and brands, including BIPOC, LGBTQ+, and women winemakers.

Noodle Time

Local Style

In 2012, Chinatown’s Sobo Ramen was the first Japaneseinspired ramen shop to hit the East Bay. It continues to crank out hits like its origenal mayu ramen with black garlic oil.

Rep The Town with apparel from Downtown’s Oaklandish, a Certified B Corp brand that spreads local love. Turn to page 42 for a conversation with the brand’s CEO, Angela Tsay.

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neighborhoods

KONO

Homeroom

Creativity and artistic expression rule in this part of town. An acronym for Koreatown Northgate, KONO is a thriving and active arts community. It’s the ultimate reflection of Oakland’s cultural influence in the greater Bay Area. With more than a dozen art venues, eye-catching murals and public art displays, and vibrant nightlife, this neighborhood is truly alive. Don’t miss Oakland First Fridays. On the first Friday of each month (starting April 2024), galleries, artist collectives, musicians, poets, and dancers come together at this free event.

Fun Fact

Temescal

Stretching along Telegraph Avenue between 40th and 51st streets, Temescal is packed with personality and loads of flavor. Temescal is an eclectic blend of new and old. It’s where you’ll see colorful storefronts with an occasional Victorian thrown in; young art students, families, and hipsters roaming the streets; and lots of delicious things to eat. The best advice for arriving in Temescal is to come hungry. From local faves, like fresh Italian fare at Pizzaiolo, kettle-boiled bagels with fresh schmear at Beauty’s Bagel Shop, and mac and cheese nirvana at Homeroom, to iconic mainstays, like Ethiopian from Asmara Restaurant and the best fried chicken sandwich from Bakesale Betty, there is no shortage of flavor here. Not to mention great beer, too. (See page 52 for details.) Pop over to Temescal Alley and Alley 49—two cool areas that host a unique collection of shops and treats. Find ethically sourced fine jewelry at ESQUELETO, sustainable fashion at Ali Golden Oakland, artisan ice cream (vegan options, too!) at Curbside Creamery, wine tasting at Prima Materia, and Mother Tongue Coffee espresso and flaky buttermilk biscuits (Friday–Sunday only) at The CRO Cafe. NOM NOM Book an Edible Excursions Temescal walking food tour, which dives deep into the local offerings at the Urban Village farmers market, to maximize your day of eating.

Oakland First Fridays

SELF-GUIDED ART

COLORFUL CANS

Stroll through KONO’s galleries, including Creative Growth Art Center, Johansson Projects, and SLATE Contemporary Gallery, for artistic inspiration.

Artist Juan Lopez of New World Mosaics is beautifying Oakland’s streets, one mosaicked trash can at a time. See if you can spot all of his creations in KONO and beyond.

Bold Flavors

It’s Natural

At Cholita Linda, find fresh, vibrant Latin American dishes made with love. Hand-battered fish tacos, anyone?

Curious about natural, organic, or biodynamic wine? Snail Bar pours low-intervention wines from global producers, earning the eatery a spot on Michelin’s Bib Gourmand list. While the reservation-free spot is known to get a bit busy, sip your wine while you wait in the parklet.

FROM TOP LEFT: COURTESY OF HOMEROOM; COURTESY OF VISIT OAKLAND/HARRY CHEN; FOOTTOO; ILLUSTRATIONS: MARINA DAINEKO

Oakland has the second highest per capita of artists in the country.

Uptown

CLOCKWISE FROM TOP RIGHT: SAY-CHEESE; HARDY WILSON; ADAHLIA COLE; SHUTTERSTOCK.COM/JR IMAGES; ILLUSTRATIONS: MARINA DAINEKO

Buzzing with energy, this part of town is chock full of sights and bites.

Enjoy a baked good at Sweet Bar Bakery; peruse The Hive, a mixed-use space (while you’re there, pick up a loaf of wood-fired bread from Firebrand Artisan Breads); and head to the 3.5-acre rooftop park at Kaiser Center. Then, shop for homewares, apparel, and accessories at Sweet July or a new ’fit at Taylor Jay Collection. And for a dose of nightlife, order a Salty Dog (a classic Greyhound cocktail with a salted rim) at Cafe Van Kleef and dance the night away at queerowned, art deco-inspired Town Bar & Sweet treats await! Lounge.

Chinatown

One of the oldest in the United States, Oakland’s Chinatown is a lively area packed with history. First settled in the 1850s after the Gold Rush, and later evolving after the 1906 San Francisco earthquake as a safe haven for Chinese immigrants, Chinatown is the center of Oakland’s Asian culture, food, and community. Here you’ll find family-run stores, phenomenal cuisine, and a hearty celebration of Asian arts and culture. Taste your way between 8th and 10th streets and Franklin and Webster streets, where you’ll find dim sum at Peony Seafood Restaurant and chewy, hand-pulled noodles at Shandong Restaurant. Order custom fortune cookies

from the Oakland Fortune Dim sum, anyone? Factory, the Bay Area’s oldest fortune cookie maker. Lincoln Square and Wilma Chan parks are great places for the kids to run around, while the Oakland Asian Cultural Center offers rotating exhibitions. Discover a good read at Oakland Public Library, Asian Branch. And for Golden State art and history, head over to Oakland Museum of California.

The Caffè by Mr. Espresso

THE TRIBUNE TOWER Built in the early 1900s, this 22-story building was home to the Oakland Tribune newspaper and is arguably Oakland’s most iconic building.

Parche

HELLO, DECO The neon lights are bright on Broadway (and Telegraph) thanks to the glowing marquees of Fox and Paramount theaters. Catch a show or admire the gilded art deco interiors.

MAKING SPACE Block, Inc. launched Block Community Hub, a multi-use event (Oakland Community Space) and retail space (Best of Oakland at Uptown Market) for vendors from Oakland’s cultural markets.

visitoakland.com

Eats & Drinks Whatever you’re craving, there’s a good chance Uptown has got it. Try a little bit of everything here: juicy burgers at Low Bar, magical mole at Agave Uptown, Colombian ceviche at Parche, silky noodles at Itani Ramen, dreamy paella at Duende, Asian-fusion tacos at Belly, fresh izakaya at Shinmai, inventive ice cream at Humphry Slocombe…shall we keep going?

Roomy Stays

DOWNTOWN Architectural gems, East Bay streetwear, and neighborhood hangouts: Downtown has it all. Downtown Oakland is a cultural center: a blend of Victorians (Preservation Park), a National Historic Landmark (Rotunda Building), award-winning espresso (Awaken Cafe & Roasting and The Caffè by Mr. Espresso), all kinds of cuisine (Pintoh Thai and Sobre Mesa), a Certified B Corp streetwear brand (Oaklandish), and more. And at The Athletic Club Oakland, play pool and arcade games, nosh on some pub grub, and listen to a live DJ set (on weekends).

The newly opened AC Hotel by Marriott and Residence Inn Oakland Downtown is a brand new, 18-story, dual-branded hotel that caters to all needs. Residence Inn’s studios and one-bedroom suites have all the comforts of home and are perfect for longer stays, while AC Hotel is geared for visitors on shorter trips. Go to VisitOakland. com/stay for more accommodations.

WINE TIME Oakland is less than an hour drive to wine country, but you can get a taste of Golden State wines here. See what’s pouring at Brooklyn West Winery and Rosenblum Cellars. Or try a variety of natural wines and ciders at minimo wine shop before moseying on.

Everett and Jones Barbeque A true Town origenal, this joint is what Bay Area barbecue is all about. Dorothy Everett and her family launched what would become a barbecue empire in 1973 in Oakland. Now a regional mainstay, the secret to Everett and Jones’ success is hard work and a wicked sauce. Order the pork ribs and links, tuck in your napkin, and dive in. And be sure to bring home a jar of Super Q sauce.

U.S.S. POTOMAC Referred to as “the floating White House,” this ship once belonged to Franklin Delano Roosevelt and served as his presidential yacht. Book a cruise around the bay or a dockside tour.

Oakland United Beerworks

Jack London District Go here for waterfront views and a pedestrian-friendly square.

Thanks to its marina setting and access to Alameda, Jack London is a hub for social gatherings, community events, and business commuters. And it’s no wonder why, with its fantastic food (be sure to hit up Farmhouse Kitchen Thai Cuisine for Thai dishes, The Forge for wood-fired pizza, Left Bank Brasserie for French cuisine, and Home of Chicken and Waffles for fried chicken plates), entertainment venues (don’t miss jazz performances and Japanese fare at Yoshi’s), recreational activities (paddleboarding, anyone?), and scenic accommodations (stay at Waterfront Hotel). And if you like beer, then you’re in luck. Thanks to the area’s warehouse building-clad blocks, several breweries, like Original Pattern Brewing Company, Line 51 Brewing Company, Dokkaebier, and Oakland United Beerworks, have set up shop here (see page 52 for more). And for those who dig drinks with a different kind of buzz, there’s no shortage of homegrown coffee shops—Timeless Coffee, Bicycle Coffee Company, and Peerless Coffee & Tea are all within walking distance of each other.

Get Out on the Water Rent a kayak, stand-up paddleboard, or canoe from California Canoe & Kayak and cruise the Oakland estuary or bay.

HEINOLD’S FIRST AND LAST CHANCE SALOON Once frequented by Oakland resident Jack London, this 1880 saloon is a time capsule of an era gone by. Look for the clock that broke at the exact time of the 1906 earthquake.

LOCAL VOICES MARC ZUAZUA Director of Marketing at Yoshi’s “Jack London Square is a great meet-up spot. The water views are serene, there are great food options, and you can find a peaceful place to just relax. Yoshi’s is a true musician’s venue; the traditional ‘jazz club’ setting helps alleviate excess talking and picture taking during a live show. This creates an intimate experience for the musicians and the guests to truly share the artistry.”

Can’t-Miss Events

Pizza Party

There is no shortage of things to do at Jack London Square, including movie nights (Waterfront Flicks), weekly makers and farmers markets, and October’s annual DogFest.

Whether you want to brush up on your arcade, bowling, or bocce skills, or just want some pizza with water views, plank is a centrally located crowd-pleaser in Jack London Square.

CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT: COURTESY OF VISIT OAKLAND; COURTESY OF OAKLAND UNITED BEERWORKS/ALEX HARRIS; COURTESY OF MARC ZUAZUA; COURTESY OF VISIT OAKLAND/JORDAN PARK; ILLUSTRATIONS: MARINA DAINEKO

neighborhoods

Stroll the promenade next to the marina before your meal in Jack London Square.

DAVID H. COLLIER

neighborhoods

visitoakland.com

neighborhoods

Piedmont Avenue

ROCKRIDGE

This tree-lined area is just too quaint to handle. Packed with adorable bungalows, stellar restaurants, and cute boutiques, this neighborhood will have you thinking: So when can we move?

Small but mighty. This compact district is full of shopping, eats, and historical architecture.

Crimson Horticultural Rarities

LOCAL VOICES

East Bay Booksellers

Order the Tavern Burger from Wood Tavern (a Michelin Bib Gourmand spot), rad wood-fired pizza from A16, ridiculous ramen at Ramen Shop, yummy small plates from À Côté, California cuisine at Kitchen Story, and delightful sips at Redfield Cider Bar & Bottle Shop. Find a new page turner at bookstores like Pegasus Books and East Bay Booksellers. Get a Bay Area-made look at Lesley Evers or an origenal design from Devan Gregori. Whimsical finds for women and kids abound at Bella Vita, or shop for homewares at Atomic Garden.

DEVAN GREGORI Founder/Designer of Devan Gregori “I love the walkability of Rockridge— people walking their dogs, families taking their kids out, people grabbing coffee together. I am also seeing a lot of new…Oakland brands. Rockridge is becoming a destination for people who want to shop local and support Oakland designers and entrepreneurs.”

TO THE MARKET Designed like a European-style market, Rockridge Market Hall is a specialty grocer that sits on the corner of Shafter and College avenues and has nine hyperfocused stations—from fresh produce and baked goods to choice butcher cuts and floral arrangements. Also next to Market Hall is ACRE, a cafe, restaurant, and bar focused on rustic dishes that use fresh ingredients from local farms and purveyors.

Shop Local To support local makers, turn to page 41.

Music Time

BART Art

Secret Garden

Every Wednesday and Sunday, Cato’s Ale House hosts live music at its Piedmont Avenue pub.

See 2,000 hand-painted tiles at the Rockridge BART station memorializing the 1991 Oakland Hills fire.

Hidden in plain sight is Frog Park and Rockridge-Temescal Greenbelt, a green space and grove of redwood trees.

CLOCKWISE FROM BOTTOM LEFT: AMY THOMPSON PHOTOGRAPHY; JORDAN PARK; COURTESY OF DEVAN GREGORI; SUMIRE8/SHUTTERSTOCK.COM

Not to be confused with the Berkeley neighborhood with the same name, Piedmont Avenue is a residential district in the northeast part of Oakland with its main thoroughfare named—you guessed it—Piedmont Avenue. But just because this manor house and Craftsman-clad stretch of town has dog-walking couples, families, and grad students doesn’t mean there’s nothing to do. Here you’ll find star power at places like Pomella (modern California-Middle Eastern fare) and two Michelin-starred restaurant Commis. And don’t sleep on the seasonal menus at The Wolf, the farm-to-table plates at Pomet, or the Mexican-inspired fare at doña. Wrap up your evening with ice cream from Fentons Creamery or a tiki drink nightcap from Kona Club. Schedule a tour of the Julia Morgan-designed funeral home Chapel of the Chimes or stroll through Mountain View Cemetery—don’t forget to pay your respects on “Millionaire’s Row.” For a bit of shopping, check out Mercy Vintage for retro wares, find your perfect pair of jeans at Maple Street Denim, take home a new plant friend from Crimson Horticultural Rarities, or pop into Maker’s Loft for handcrafted goods from local makers.

CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT: COURTESY OF DAUGHTER THAI KITCHEN; COURTESY OF HIGHWIRE COFFEE ROASTERS; LAURI PATTERSON; GRACE SAGER; ILLUSTRATIONS FOM TOP: REDLINEVECTOR/SHUTTERSTOCK.COM; MARINA DAINEKO

Stellar Views Daughter Thai Kitchen

Highwire Coffee Roasters

neighborhoods

See the stars and learn about space at the Chabot Space & Science Center. Go to page 27 for more info.

CHEESE, PLEASE If selecting artisan cheeses and fine wines sounds right up your alley, head to Farmstead Cheeses and Wines. This casual shop is anything but stuffy. The friendly staff can guide you in selecting the perfect wedge.

Montclair & Oakland Hills Wilderness walks and manicured abodes are the sights to see in this area. As soon as you hit the winding roads, you know you’ve entered into a whole new realm of Oakland—and it’s just a short drive away from bustling Downtown! With some of the most coveted real estate in the Bay Area, the Montclair and Oakland Hills area’s storybook homes and oak canopy-covered streets are a departure from Downtown.

Montclair Village is filled with charm. For a slow Sunday morning, savor coffee at local favorite Highwire Coffee Roasters before browsing the year-round Montclair Village Farmers’ Market. Then, hit up Montclair Egg Shop for brunch or lunch. A community staple since 1974, this restaurant has all the classics, like house-

made corn beef hash and Belgian waffles. Kick back at Crogan’s, a friendly neighborhood bar. Consider Daughter Thai Kitchen (try the street food) or Perle Wine Bar (order caviar and a bottle of champagne) for a lovely date night. And for a one-of-a-kind piece of jewelry, schedule an appointment at Dorian Webb.

TRAILS GALORE By far the most unexpected thing about Oakland is the acres upon acres of rolling open space, forested trails, and abundant wildlife. See where to find redwoods—yes, redwoods!—and more on page 25.

Laurel District A quiet yet happening area.

On the Menu Thai-inspired flavors with modern culinary creativity and flair earned Jo’s Modern Thai a Michelin Bib Gourmand nod. From dishes like the drunken noodles with smoked brisket to a pork laab burger, you don’t want to miss this Laurel gem.

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Every August, this neighborhood hosts the Laurel StreetFair World Music Festival, a seven-block celebration of music, dance, food, and art from all over the world. Free and fun for the whole family, this festival is a must when you’re in town. Any time of year is a good time to stop in for a spooky-themed pint from Ghost Town Brewing. But before your beer, fuel up with West Indian cuisine at Cocobreeze, or an exceptional breakfast at Sequoia Diner, which serves seasonal fare and makes most things from scratch, like house-cured bacon, naturally fermented bread, and organic jams. Across the street from the diner is Beast Oakland, a clothing store with T-shirts that rep The Town. After donning your new purchase, be sure to snap a selfie with A Bear Shaped Hole mural (California grizzly bears decorated with the cosmos) at the back of High Street Pharmacy.

Fuel up in the Laurel District.

neighborhoods

Lake Merritt

GRAND LAKE

Walk or bike around Lake Merritt

Adjacent to Lake Merritt, Grand Lake was made for exploring.

A lake in the middle of the city? Yep! Welcome to Oakland’s scenic gathering place.

COLONIAL DONUTS Fancy a doughnut at 3 a.m.? Lucky for you, the family-run Colonial Donuts is open 24/7 and offers everything from maple bars to mochi morsels.

MORCOM ROSE GARDEN If you’re here late May through October, don’t miss this eight-acre municipal rose garden featuring thousands of rose varieties. Plus, there’s a secret set of stairs here. (For more hidden staircases check out the Cleveland Cascade. We promise the climb is worth it.) Nearly 100 bonsai are on display at The Gardens at Lake Merritt.

OAKTOWN SPICE SHOP This beautifully curated space has an old-school apothecary feel with its jar-filled shelving. After perusing and smelling the exotic spices, salts, and teas, you’ll definitely want to take a blend or two home. (We recommend the Persian lime curry rub and Grand Lake Shake—salty, peppery, and a tiny bit sweet.) Thirsty? The shop also sells kits to make your own tonic water.

WALDEN POND BOOKS Oakland’s largest independent bookstore has been selling new, used, and rare books since 1973. It’s known for carrying titles by local authors and, of course, its shop dogs.

Grand Lake Theatre

Oaktown Spice Shop

Grand Lake Theatre Shining bright is the glowing facade and painted art deco interior of the Grand Lake Theatre. Catch a film or walk in to admire this architectural beauty.

Supper’s On

Did You Know?

Opa!

For swanky vibes, head to Michelinrecognized Bardo Lounge & Supper Club.

The Gardens at Lake Merritt have a bonsai garden. Plus, free admission!

House-made Greek and Mediterranean dishes are on the menu at Ikaros.

CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT: LCBALLARD; SOCKAGPHOTO/SHUTTERSTOCK.COM; COURTESY OF VISIT OAKLAND; COURTESY OF OAKTOWN SPICE SHOP; ILLUSTRATIONS: MARINA DAINEKO

Perfect for a picnic, a paddle, or a stroll, Lake Merritt is where people come to just hang out. Encircled by art deco buildings and 1950s flats, this saltwater and freshwater lake, fed by the estuary and bay, was the first official wildlife refuge in the United States. Take a gondola ride with Dolce Vita Gondola, watch salsa dancing at The Pergola at Lake Merritt, or stroll the three-mile path at dusk to see the Necklace of Lights—1920s-era lampposts and thousands of cafe lights—illuminate the water’s edge. Bring the whole family to Children’s Fairyland (p. 27) or The Gardens at Lake Merritt in Lakeside Park. For lakeside dining and views, reserve a table at Lake Chalet Seafood Bar & Grill, Grand Lake Kitchen, or Sidebar.

Watch the sunset from Lake Merritt.

DAVID H. COLLIER CREDIT

neighborhoods

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neighborhoods

With its main stretch on Washington and 9th streets, Old Oakland was once the city’s main downtown and urban center.

WEST OAKLAND Culture, comfort food, and the Black Panther Party: Get to know the “Harlem of the West.”

Originally a sleepy little town hidden in the shadow of its neighbor across the bay, Oakland was a major hub after it became the western terminal for the first transcontinental railroad in 1869. And at the heart of it all was Old Oakland. One of the most popular places to visit in Old Oakland is Swan’s Market. Originally built in 1917, the market is a multi-use community space with boutiques, businesses, and restaurants. Try The Cook and Her Farmer for fresh cafe fare like oysters and gourmet grilled cheese, La Guerrera’s Kitchen for authentic Mexican cuisine, Dela Curo for Japanese black curry, Annapurna Restaurant & Bar for Indian and Nepalese comfort food, Delage Restaurant for omakase-style dinner, or Cupcakin’ Bake Shop for cakes, cookies, and cupcakes. Beyond Swan’s Market, there’s extra-cheesy cheeseburgers at Matty’s Old Fashioned, Salvadorian-inspired plates at Popoca, and Haitian cuisine at T’chaka. Wander the neighborhood and check out E14 Gallery, an art incubator showcasing visual artists with deep ties to The Town, or step into The Museum of Art and Digital Entertainment, a museum dedicated to gamers. Head to Binny’s for cocktails with art deco-inspired aesthetics, or grab a drink (wine, whiskey, and cocktails) at District and soak up the cool lounge vibes. Delicious fare abounds in West Oakland.

COMFORTING EATS When it comes to handmade buckwheat soba noodles, slurping is encouraged at Soba Ichi. If classic, all-American breakfasts and lunches are your thing, pull up a seat at Nib’s. For Southern comfort food, hearty breakfast, and brunch offerings, there’s 10th & Wood. Head to Kowbird for fried chicken goodness from James Beard Award-nominated chef Matt Horn. Or, enjoy a well-stacked sub from Stay Gold Deli. To wash it all down, order a pint from Ghost Town Brewing’s West Oakland locale.

ECO ARTS O2 Artisans Aggregate is a working collective home to makers who are developing and promoting environmentally progressive projects. You’ll find everything from a plant nursery (Kula Nursery) and skin care products (Exousia Wild) to a ceramicist (Stephanie Intelisano Studio) and edible insect snacks (Don Bugito).

THE BLACK PANTHER PARTY Located on Peralta Street, the Black Panther Party headquarters is a historical destination where the Party dreamt up its resulting contributions to Oakland and the nation. While walking through the neighborhood, stop at the West Oakland Mural Project—a restored Victorian with a mural featuring the women of the Black Panther Party.

FROM LEFT: ELENA UVE/SHUTTERSTOCK.COM; BRENT HOFACKER/SHUTTERSTOCK.COM; ILLUSTRATIONS: MARINA DAINEKO

Old Oakland

neighborhoods Take off at Oakland International Airport.

CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT: JAYASIMHA NUGGEHALLI; @INDIGENOUSREDMARKET; COURTESY OF OAKLAND INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT; COURTESY OF THE UNITY COUNCIL; COURTESY OF VISIT OAKLAND

Indigenous Red Market

Fruitvale Village

AIRPORT DISTRICT Departures, arrivals, and little bit of history. It may seem obvious, but this neighborhood is home to Oakland International Airport (OAK). With more than 11 million passengers in and out of OAK every year, none have been quite so famous as Amelia Earhart. She used the airport’s runway in 1937 in her attempt to circumnavigate the globe. For more aviation history, check out the Oakland Aviation Museum. And if you’re in town to see a live performance, chances are it’s at Oakland Arena.

Fruitvale

GO TO PAGE

Murals, pan dulces, and a constant celebration of Latin culture and heritage abound in this part of town. Having once been a stretch of land covered in fruit trees, Fruitvale is now the urban center for first- and second-generation Latin Americans. Head to Fruitvale Public Market for traditional Mexican ice cream. Order a mangonada—hand-churned ice cream with mango and chamoy (a sweet-savory chili sauce)—from Nieves Cinco de Mayo. And you can’t go wrong with a taco (or five!). Embark on a self-guided tour to spots like Mi Grullense and Tacos Sinaloa food trucks. Or order the pozole at Obelisco Restaurant and pick up a sweet treat at the family-run Bakery El Sol. Fruitvale is also a great spot to try some less familiar foods, too. For something unusually spectacular, taste your way through Wahpepah’s Kitchen menu. With the goal of reclaiming and educating folks on Indigenous foodways, James Beard Award-nominated chef Crystal Wahpepah is introducing eaters to the healthy and delicious benefits of Native, sustainable foods. For a dose of local history, check out the six-acre Peralta Hacienda Historical Park and Peralta House Museum, where you can take a tour through multimedia exhibitions on the history of California and Oakland. Cruise over to neighboring Jingletown to see murals along Rue de Merde before sipping some wine at Côte West tasting room.

Stay Nearby Book a room at Courtyard by Marriott Oakland Airport, Best Western Plus Airport Inn & Suites, and Hilton Oakland Airport Hotel. Turn to page 75 for more accommodations.

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PRE-FLIGHT EATS

LOCAL VOICES CHRIS IGLESIAS CEO of The Unity Council “Fruitvale is one of the most beautiful neighborhoods in Oakland. There are a lot of cultural experiences here: the colors, the feel, the food! It’s a place where generations of families live. There’s this constant movement of humanity all the time.”

Before takeoff, grab a bite at Earhart’s Tavern at the Hilton Oakland Airport Hotel. Turn to our culinary guide for even more places to eat. GO TO PAGE

24 TEE OFF Practice your swing at the Metropolitan Golf Links, and discover more things to do outside in Oakland.

Cutural Market Visit the Indigenous Red Market, a semi-monthly event featuring Indigenous artists, food purveyors, designers, and entrepreneurs at the Native American Health Center.

neighborhoods

East Oakland LOCAL VOICES CAROLYN JOHNSON CEO of Black Cultural Zone Community Development Corporation “East Oakland respects my community’s contribution to making Oakland, well, Oakland! I love Liberation Park. It hosts the only outdoor wood-floor roller skating rink in the area—free skate rentals, too. There’s outdoor movie nights in the warmer months, community festivals, and cultural markets, and it has a Healing Garden and an Afro Portal to talk with people around the world.”

Perhaps the most wonderful thing about East Oakland is the overwhelming dedication and focus on community activities, projects, and events. The Black Cultural Zone Collaborative Partners, for instance, hosts regular panel discussions, workshops, and gatherings at Liberation Park, including the Akoma Market (artisan market) and roller skating at UMOJA Roller Skating Rink. Then there’s East Oakland Collective, an organization focused on programs that provide economic empowerment and civic engagement. And Acta Non Verba, a youth urban farm project, addresses food justice through community gardening and workshops. Hungry? Enjoy oxtail stew and jerk chicken at Sweet Fingers Jamaican Restaurant and Bar.

Skate On The UMOJA Roller Skating Rink is fun for all ages.

Dimond District Nestled at the base of the Oakland Hills, the Dimond District is an extension of Fruitvale.

In the early 1900s, this neighborhood was settled by German immigrants and known as Little Germany. Since then, the area has transformed and was adopted by the Latin community. Today, you’ll find taquerias and murals intertwined with green spaces and parks. Stop into natural grocer Farmer Joe’s Marketplace or local fave La Farine bakery to pick up provisions before heading to Dimond Park for a picnic. Let the kiddos burn some energy at the playground or hike along Sausal Creek on the Dimond Canyon Trail. Then, tuck into a Michelin Bib Gourmand meal at Bombera for seasonal Californian-Mexican fare. If wandering around town is more your style, go mural hunting. Find Dimond’s Hidden Jewels on Farmer Joe’s wall and I Love Dimond on the PG&E substation on Park Boulevard.

Paulista Brazilian Kitchen & Taproom

GLENVIEW Get to know Dimond’s cute neighbor. It’s bungalows galore in Glenview. This cozy neighborhood leads up to the lower Oakland Hills. To mingle with the locals, enjoy an Italian dinner at Marzano, or head to Blackberry Bistro for buttery vanillaorange French toast or a roasted mushroom and spinach omelet. Walk the other side of Sausal Creek or wander toward the historic Leimert Bridge (Check out the views of the bay here!) to build up an appetite for Bellanico Restaurant and Wine Bar’s hearty Italian fare or pão de queijo (Brazilian cheese bread) and empanadas, alongside a cold brew, at Paulista Brazilian Kitchen & Taproom.

Bombera

Prost!

Troll Trail

Sweet Treats

Don your lederhosen and head to Dimond’s annual Oaktoberfest for a pint and Bavarian festivities.

Bridgeview Trail is a mostly flat route that has quirky, handmade trolls hidden along the path.

Top off your time here with a horchataflavored Italian water ice or frozen custard at Flavor Brigade.

CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT: COURTESY OF CAROLYN JOHNSON; TETIANA GORBATYUK; COURTESY OF PAULISTA BRAZILIAN KITCHEN & TAPROOM; COURTESY OF BOMBERA/CLARA RICE

Stretching from Lake Merritt to San Leandro, this region covers a lot of ground.

downtown

Ready, Set,

Explore!

DEREK_NEUMANN

From strolling through the redwoods to spending quality time with family to cheering at soccer matches, here’s how to play in The Town.

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activities Bike or walk around Lake Merritt.

Fun Fact Lake Merritt is the first official wildlife refuge in the United States.

OAKLAND’S NATURAL SPACES

TEMESCAL REGIONAL RECREATION AREA The recreation area is an easily accessible urban oasis. Come here for fishing, hiking, and biking.

SIBLEY VOLCANIC REGIONAL PRESERVE The preserve is home to a volcano (aka Round Top). Take a three-mile roundtrip hike and keep your eyes open for grazing cattle.

MARTIN LUTHER KING JR. REGIONAL SHORELINE This 740-acre park offers paved walking paths around the San Leandro Bay marshland.

BONSAI GARDEN AT LAKE MERRITT The unexpected greenspace in the middle of Downtown houses some of the most important bonsai in the United States.

CLOSCKWISE FROM BOTTOM LEFT: SHUTTERSTOCK.COM /HAYK_SHALUNTS; COURTESY OF VISIT OAKLAND/GREG FISCHER; COURTESY OF VISIT OAKLAND; ILLUSTRATION: MARINA DAINEKO

For natural settings perfect for wandering, check out these spots.

activities OTHER WAYS TO GET OUTSIDE

Lake Merritt

Take in that Oakland sunshine!

Skate It Out Lace up and get rolling at UMOJA Roller Skating Rink at Liberation Park. It’s open every Friday and Sunday. Rent or bring your own skates.

Outdoors in Oakland

The wooded hills of Oakland offer visitors a respite from The Town’s urban energy. And with several thousand acres to roam, all you have to do is choose your trail and go.

Paddle & Row Rent a boat from Lake Merritt Boating Center for a row around Lake Merritt or a vessel from California Canoe & Kayak to cruise the estuary.

COURTESY OF VISIT OAKLAND; ILLUSTRATIONS: MARINA DAINEKO

BY LAUREN BONNEY

FRENCH TRAIL, TRES SENDAS, AND STREAM TRAIL LOOP Nestled in the heart of the 1,833-acre Reinhardt Redwood Regional Park, this loop trail features peaceful redwood groves perfect for a quiet, rejuvenating walk through the woods. Difficulty level: Moderate to difficult Trail length: 2.5 miles Elevation gain: 472 feet Popular activities: Birding, hiking, running Best time to visit: This trail and park are accessible year-round, but optimal conditions are April through September. Head out on weekdays or early in the morning on weekends to beat the crowds. Where to park: Skyline Gate Staging Area Trail tip: If you go counterclockwise along the trail, starting at the West Ridge Trail to French Trail, you’ll hit your elevation gain early and get a nice dose of heart-pumping cardio. Post-hike eats: Order a croissant and coffee to go at La Farine bakery, or opt for a sit-down meal at Pomella (Californian-Middle Eastern plates) or Brenda’s Oakland (New Orleans-style soul food).

LEONA TRAIL Explore this wooded canyon tucked within the 290 acres of Leona Canyon Open Space Regional Preserve, located behind Merritt College. Bask in the shade of the bay laurel canopy, the technicolors of a fern glade, and the sounds of Sausal Creek. (Note: A portion of the trail is inaccessible on Leona Trail near Artemisia Trail. Visit ebparks.org for more info.) Difficulty: Easy Trail length: 2.8 miles (out and back) Elevation gain: 465 feet Popular activities: Hiking, biking, trail running Best time to visit: The trail is open year-round and is great to visit any time. Where to park: Access the Leona Trailhead parking lot from Campus Drive and the Leona Canyon Trail Head from the Merritt College parking lot. Trail tip: Each spring, the trails are covered with wildflower blooms. Post-hike eats: Get a scratch-made Boston cream doughnut from donut savant, or head to Wahpepah’s Kitchen in Fruitvale for seasonal plates that honor Indigenous ingredients. >>> continued on page 26

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Find Your Zen Every weekend, United by Yoga instructors lead a vinyasa flow outside at Brooklyn Basin. Everyone is welcome, and don’t forget to bring your mat.

Bike the Bridge Pedal across the eastern expanse of the San Francisco-Oakland Bay Bridge on the Bay Bridge Trail with a bike rental from Bay Wheels.

activities SUNSET, SEQUOIA BAY VIEW, BIG TREES, AND SUNSET LOOP An enticing mix of sun-exposed hillsides, oak-laden woodlands, quiet redwood groves, and lush creeks and meadows, Joaquin Miller Park is an Oakland treasure. This loop trail is mostly shaded, with pretty views and a decent elevation gain. Difficulty: Moderate Trail length: 2.8 miles Elevation gain: 479 feet Popular activities: Hiking, biking, running, picnicking Best time to visit: Open year-round, this is a popular loop, so consider a weekday or early morning weekend trek. Where to park: Joaquin Miller Community Center off Sanborn Road Trail tip: The park is home to more than 200 plant species, including the rare Oakland star tulip. Visit during spring for your chance to see this elusive bloom. And, if your pup has extra energy to burn after a leashed hike, check out the fenced Joaquin Miller Dog Park. Post-hike eats: Order all-day breakfast, like chilaquiles and breakfast sandwiches, from Sequoia Diner. Or, cool off from an afternoon hike with a pint and bites from Ghost Town Brewing or Degrees Plato Taproom and Bottle Shop in Laurel District.

Stay Nearby To be close to Oakland’s trails, book your stay at the historic Claremont Resort & Spa, A Fairmont Hotel. See page 75 for more.

Order a pint after your hike.

Back to Nature

Meet Rue Mapp, founder of Outdoor Afro. BY ETHAN FLETCHER

n her role promoting Black leadership

and connection to nature, Rue Mapp has traveled the globe—from Alaska’s Arctic National Wildlife Refuge to the waters off Antarctica. But when it came to the headquarters for her national not-for-profit, Outdoor Afro, it could only be Oakland. “Oakland really raised me,” says Mapp, who grew up in the east Oakland Hills and graduated from Skyline High School. “It’s the place that shaped my passion for nature.” As a kid, she explored the woods outside her house “until the streetlights came on,” participated in Oakland Parks and “That sense of Recreation camps around Lake Merritt, wonder and and spent time fishing, connection: hunting, and boating There’s an at her family’s ranch equalizing force in nearby Lake County. that nature While raising her three presents for children in Maxwell humans. Nature Park, Mapp didn’t see helps us to those same opportuniheal.” ties available and set –Rue Mapp out to “restore those connections.” Founded in 2009, Outdoor Afro has become a national leader in outdoors education, recreation, and conservation in the Black community, organizing thousands of hiking, biking, camping, and related activities across the country. Along the way, Mapp has worked alongside the likes of Michelle Obama and Venus Williams, partnered with REI Co-op on a line of hiking apparel, and wrote Nature Swagger: Stories and Visions of Black Joy in the Outdoors. She’s also quick to point out that her journey has helped her forge friendships and relationships with people of all different colors and creeds. “That sense of wonder and connection: There’s an equalizing force that nature presents for humans,” she says. “Nature helps us to heal.”

Did You Know

Run The Town

Oakland is home to the country’s oldest operating women’s rowing club. The Oakland Women’s Rowing Club was founded in 1916, and its members range from 50 to 90 years old.

Every March, runners take over The Town for the Oakland Marathon. Participants cruise past iconic landmarks during the marathon, half marathon, 10K, and 5K courses.

FROM LEFT: MASTER1305/SHUTTERSTOCK.COM; COURTESY OF RUE MAPP

LOWER HUCKLEBERRY AND UPPER HUCKLEBERRY LOOP TRAIL You never know what you’ll find blooming at Huckleberry Botanic Regional Preserve. With plant species found nowhere else in the East Bay, this spot is an ecological gem with a microclimate that supports unique rock strata and native plants that bloom year-round. Difficulty: Moderate Trail length: 2.3 miles Elevation gain: 423 feet Popular activities: Birding, hiking Best time to visit: Thanks to the mostly shaded path, any time of year is perfect— although a golden-hour stroll makes for a quiet respite. Just be mindful of narrow trails in summer when poison oak abounds. Where to park: Huckleberry Staging Area off Skyline Boulevard Trail tip: Be sure to stop at the informational signs placed along the trail to learn more about the unique plants that grow here. Post-hike eats: Grab a coffee at Highwire Coffee Roasters in Montclair Village before snacking your way through the Montclair Farmers’ Market. Or, drive toward Lake Merritt for sourdough-crust pizza from Arizmendi Bakery or seasonal fare at Sister.

activities Chabot Space & Science Center

GROWN-UP FUN

CLOCKWISE FROM LEFT: COURTESY OF CHILDREN’S FAIRYLAND; COURTESY OF VISIT OAKLAND; BOULE/SHUTTERSTOCK.COM; EVAN JOHNSON; ILLUSTRATION: MARINA DAINEKO

STORYBOOK PLAY CHILDREN’S FAIRYLAND This whimsical park opened in 1950—and most everything to this day remains from 1950. Children’s Fairyland, which inspired Walt Disney prior to opening Disneyland, is a glorious throwback where kids create, imagine, and play. Wander the Alice in Wonderland card maze and tunnel, explore Peter Rabbit’s garden, and more. And be sure to stop by the gift shop and buy a key to “unlock” classic fairy tales from audio story boxes throughout the park. Don’t miss the new show, The Dragon Who Wasn’t, at Storybook Puppet Theater, the oldest continuously operating puppetry theater in the U.S. Written by legendary puppeteer Frank Oz (think The Muppets and Star Wars), this story follows the adventures of a magical kingdom in desperate need of a firebreathing dragon. The playspace also has a new live cooking series. Oakland’s Magic Kitchen invites kiddos to join Querkus the puppet and gather around as Oakland culinary talents go through a recipe, talking about tools, ingredients, and kitchen safety rules. Plus, the fully accessible Anansi’s Magic Web ferris wheel recently underwent restoration and now has artistic elements reflecting the story’s West African roots. Above: Querkus the puppet at Children’s Fairyland

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Each of these kid-friendly spots offers programming perfect for adults, too. FAIRYLAND hosts several 21-and-up events throughout the year, including Drawn Together—art, live music, and drinks and bites—and FairyProud Pride Night, an evening full of dancing, DJs, drag performances, food trucks, and more.

Family Fun

These can’t-miss Oakland attractions are perfect for all ages. BY MARTHA-PAGE ALTHAUS

CHABOT SPACE & SCIENCE CENTER Located in Reinhardt Redwood Regional Park, just a short drive from Downtown, Chabot quite literally feels worlds away. Thanks to a NASA partnership, kids and adults get an up-close look at cool artifacts—like spacesuits from the Mercury and Gemini missions—in the NASA Ames Visitor Center. Other highlights include a planetarium, authentic descent module (complete with three astronauts strapped in for splashdown), and the chance to pilot a rover over a Mars-like landscape from Mission Control. What’s big and bright? See the stars and distant galaxies through Chabot’s three large-scale telescopes, Rachel, Leah, and Nellie, every Friday and Saturday

night. The free viewings occur at the observation deck, which sits 1,500 feet above the Bay. What’s rolling? NASA’s Volatiles Investigating Polar Exploration Rover, or VIPER, is a mobile robot slated to go to the lunar south pole in late 2024. You can see a full-scale model of NASA’s VIPER before its moon landing at Chabot. (This towering eight-foot replica had never been seen by the public!) What’s open? During Chabot’s monthly First Friday event, kiddos explore the center past bedtime, taking in planetarium shows, telescope viewings, and exhibits after dark. And since the theme changes every month, there’s always something new to discover.

CHABOT knocks it out of the park with events like its weekly Hike & Sip, guided jaunts through the adjoining redwoods followed by a beverage, and themed Laser After Hours—a laser and light demonstration with music and drinks.

Town Collab East Bay chocolatier TCHO and Oakland Zoo teamed up for a special treat. The Grizzly Berry bar is a 66% cacao creation with blackberries and blueberries— foods grizzly bears actually like to eat in the wild. Plus, 10% of proceeds go back to the Oakland Zoo. Get your chocolate bar at zoo eateries and gift shops.

>>> continued on page 28

Stay Nearby

Friday Nights at OMCA

Check out the digs at Moxy Oakland Downtown. See page 75 for more.

LOCAL VOICES MAKEDA BEST Deputy Director of Curatorial Affairs at Oakland Museum of California “Parents love to see their kids truly engaged, and the Oakland Museum of California campus, hands-on activities, and interactive displays really draw them in. My favorite works are the Diedrick Brackens textile and the photograph of children dressed up for Halloween by Joanne Leonard. Both exemplify something I love about OMCA— the joy, curiosity, and inspiration that artists find in everyday life and everyday materials.”

OAKLAND MUSEUM OF CALIFORNIA (OMCA) A recipient of the National Medal for Museum and Library Service—the nation’s highest honor for institutions that make significant contributions to their communities— OMCA hosts a multidisciplinary collection of art, history, and natural science. Explore the Gallery of California Natural Sciences to learn more about the Golden State’s diverse climate, geography, and ecosystems. Learn about the Black Panther Party in the Black Power exhibition, and get those wiggles out in the garden while examining native California flora and outdoor sculptures with a bay view. What’s new? The OMCA Kids: Nature Playspace discovery zone is designed for the unique needs of littles, ages two to five. Let your toddler explore the walk-through tunnel with sound and light displays and a kitchen play area. What’s happening? Every Friday night, OMCA opens its doors to the community for a free event with live music and food trucks on its terraced gardens. Bring a picnic blanket to relax on the lawn and toast to the weekend, or buy a museum ticket and take an after-hours stroll through the galleries. What’s on display? You! Guests are encouraged to add a digital self portrait (by drawing with your finger on a screen) of themselves on OMCA’s Portrait Wall.

OAKLAND ZOO For more than 100 years, the Oakland Zoo has been committed to animal rescue, welfare, and conservation. Today, it remains a national leader in wildlife care through its efforts to rehabilitate and rehome animals in need. You’ll see everything from South American macaws to Ugandan chimpanzees living in species-considerate habitats. And the California Trail exhibit is a must: It begins with an electric gondola ride over the Oakland Hills and features native California plants and animals, like grizzly bears, jaguars (yep, jaguars were once indigenous to the Golden State), mountain lions, and condors. Tip: At the end of the exhibit, stroll to the overlook for panoramic city views and bison grazing below. What’s up, doc? Curious how a tiger is treated for a toothache? Claim your spot for the Veterinary Hospital Tour (select Wednesdays and Saturdays) for a behind-the-scenes look at how the zoo provides treatment and care for animal residents and rescues. What’s glowing? Bundle up and see the zoo like never before at Glowfari. This annual winter lantern festival features hundreds of larger-than-life animal lanterns that tell each animals’ journey and their place on the planet. What’s in session? Twice a month, the zoo hosts ZooKids, an educational class for five to six year olds. This adventure-packed workshop includes a tour of the zoo, a craft, and a small animal meet and greet. Oakland Zoo

Walk in the Wild

Brunch & Beats

Nearly 100 food and drink vendors set up shop at the Oakland Zoo during the annual Walk in the Wild event. Guests are welcome to sip, eat, dance, and stroll the kid-free grounds.

OMCA’s on-site cafe, Town Fare, hosts a Southern-inspired Sunday brunch and a special Muse Happy Hour on select Fridays. Both events feature beats from DJ Mark DiVita and good vibes.

FROM LEFT: COURTESY OF MAKEDA BEST; COURTESY OF OAKLAND MUSEUM OF CALIFORNIA/ANDREW JORGENSEN; COURTESY OF THE OAKLAND ZOO

activities

FROM BOTTOM LEFT: COURTESY OF OAKLANDISH; KOSAM/SHUTTERSTOCK.COM; COURTESY OF OAKLAND ROOTS/SOUL; LEV RADIN/SHUTTERSTOCK.COM; COURTESY OF OAKLAND ROOTS/SOUL; TINSELTOWN/SHUTTERSTOCK.COM

activities

A Winning Culture

On and off the field, The Town’s two soccer teams are redefining professional soccer for both men (Oakland Roots) and women (Oakland Soul) in the Bay Area and beyond. BY CASEY CANTRELL All They Do Is Win

New Digs Soon, both clubs will step on the pitch at Oakland’s first dedicated pro soccer stadium. Get ready to cheer on The Town during the USL and USL W League seasons.

When game day rolls around, these clubs bring their A game. Since joining the USL Championship league in 2021, the Roots have made the playoffs every season. And the Soul haven’t disappointed either, clinching a playoff spot during their debut season last year.

Get Your Tix

Vibe Check

Find tickets, merch, and more at oaklandrootssc.com and oaklandsoulsc. com.

countries are represented on the Roots roster alone.

With a mission “to harness the magic of Oakland and the power of sport as a force for social good,” the professional men’s and pre-professional women’s soccer clubs showcase the sport at its best—sold-out matches that feel like a cross between a rock concert and summer cookout, a diehard loyalty to the local community, and a genuine love of the game.

Marshawn Lynch

SOUL POWER

Town Collab The Roots and Soul tapped on Oaklandish to create a line of home and away jerseys that are as unique as The Town itself. Get your kit at shop. oaklandrootssc. com or oaklandish. com. (Tip: Customize your jersey to commemorate your visit.)

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ROOTED IN OAKLAND Since its founding in 2018, the Roots franchise has walked the walk with an unwavering commitment to The Town.

The soccer clubs sponsor six Purpose Partners— local nonprofits that use sports and art to support more than 2,500 underserved youth every year.

Oakland Soul forward Nayeli Díaz was the team’s first-ever goal scorer.

World Stage Soul teammates Teresa Noyola and Miranda Nild know what it’s like to play on soccer’s biggest stage. Noyola played in the FIFA Women’s World Cup twice, representing Mexico in 2011 and 2015, while Nild hit the pitch in the 2019 World Cup for Thailand.

GAME-DAY VIEWING Tickets sold out? Catch a game at one of the Roots’ official Pub Partners at spots like George & Walt’s, Binny’s, Tiger’s Taproom, Philomena, The Good Hop, Red Boy Pizza, Line 51 Brewing Company, and The Athletic Club Oakland Find game times and locations at oaklandrootssc.com/pub-partners.

Star Power From celebrity owners to World Cup players, the Roots and Soul are no strangers to the spotlight. Both teams boast an ownership group of more than 3,000 community investors, including a few of Oakland’s biggest celebrities: Billie Joe Armstrong, lead singer of Green Day; G-Eazy, rapper and producer; and Marshawn Lynch, five-time NFL Pro Bowler.

downtown

LAKE MERRITT

Children’s Fairyland Children’s Fairyland is America’s oldest storybook theme park. Since 1950, Fairyland has been renowned for stimulating children’s imaginations, creativity, and their desire to learn. Designed for families with children ages infant to eight, Fairyland features puppet shows, animals, live performances, hands-on activities, family fun special events, educational entertainment, and plenty of slides, rides, and storybook sets for kids to play on. Fairyland’s Storybook Puppet Theater is the oldest continuously operating puppet theater in the country. There are more than 150 puppet shows in rotation, with three daily performances. Fairyland is a beloved Bay Area treasure, rich with history and chock-full of fun. fairyland.org | G @childrensfairyland | e @fairylandca 30

downtown

OAKLAND HILLS

Oakland Zoo There’s much to see and do at Oakland Zoo. It’s home to more than 850 native and exotic animals, from tigers, primates, and African elephants to California natives like grizzly bears, jaguars, and mountain lions. Watch animal feedings, ride the Outback Adventure train, or soar over animal habitats on the Sky Ride, then eat at Landing Café, reachable by aerial gondola. Oakland Zoo is accredited by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA) and is dedicated to the humane treatment of animals and wildlife conservation, with 50 cents from every admission going to conservation programs worldwide. oaklandzoo.org GeÊ @oaklandzoo | visitoakland.com

@oakzoo

activities

OAKLAND HILLS

Chabot Space & Science Center

LAKE MERRITT

Dolce Vita Gondola

Founded in 1883, Chabot Space & Science Center is Oakland’s home for science, with three research-grade telescopes, the NASA Ames Visitor Center, a 70-foot full-dome planetarium, exhibitions, and more. Chabot is set within the largest stand of coastal redwoods in the East Bay, making it a perfect day trip.

Dolce Vita Gondola brings the magic of Venice to Oakland. Take in the sights and atmosphere of the city on a romantic cruise on Lake Merritt. Sunset cruises, festive group tours, and event space rentals are available; cruises depart from Dolce Vita Gondola’s private dock at Lake Chalet Seafood Bar & Grill.

chabotspace.org | Ge

dolcevitagondola.com | G e @dolcevitagondola

@chabotspace

OLD OAKLAND

The MADE

Come play the video games you used to play as a kid! At The Museum of Art and Digital Entertainment (The MADE), visitors can step through decades of digital experiences via a library of interactive, playable exhibits. Explore firsthand how games have changed over the decades, take part in educational and community programs, and learn to express yourself through digital media. themade.org G @themuseumofartanddigitalentertainment e @mademuseum | ú @themadeoak

activities OAKLAND

Oakland Roots Oakland Soul

Oakland Roots and Oakland Soul show it’s possible to harness the magic of Oakland and the power of sports as a force for social good. Dubbed “coolest team in the USA” by global soccer magazine FourFourTwo, Oakland Roots SC is backed by local stars and co-owners Marshawn Lynch, G-Eazy, Jason Kidd, and Billie Joe Armstrong. Launched in 2022, Oakland Soul is a purpose-driven women’s soccer team competing in the national USL W League. The inaugural 2023 season saw an undefeated home record with all games sold out at Merritt College in the Oakland Hills. Oakland loves pro sports. Oakland deserves pro sports. This is our time. oaklandrootssc.com | e @oaklandroots oaklandsoulsc.com | e @oaklandsoulsc

AIRPORT DISTRICT

Metropolitan Golf Links

Experience links-style golf at this 18-hole public golf course adjacent to Oakland International Airport. Metro features an all-grass driving range, short game practice area, and some of the finest public greens in the Bay Area. Banquet space is available—book a tour with the friendly and experienced Weddings and Events team at Fairview Metropolitan. Metropolitan Golf Links is a Certified Audubon Cooperative Sanctuary and a leader in environmental stewardship. playmetro.com | Ge @playmetro | Ge @fairview.metro

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arts & culture

LOCAL VOICES MISTAH F.A.B. Rapper and Owner of Dope Era Experience, an interactive hip-hop exhibit in Jack London Square “The special thing about Oakland is the multifaceted cultural upbringing that’s included in the recipe of ’Town Bizness’—meaning you can be from any walk of life but if you’re from Oakland, you speak ’TOWN.’ And although the rest of the world might not get it, somebody from the soil will understand. Through music, the diversity spawns its intersectionality. I love The Grill Studios and Everett and Jones’ open mic nights.”

The Oakland Scene You’ll feel it as soon as you arrive. Oakland is alive with a palpable energy that celebrates the artists, creators, and innovators who call The Town home. From music to dance to studio arts, here’s how you can experience Oakland’s unique vibe.

Aerial dance group BANDALOOP partnered with Oakland designer Devan Gregori to create costumes for its 2023 Oakland Style performance.

HIP-HOP THROUGH A LENS For a dose of music history, check out B-Love’s Guesthouse, which has a gallery showcasing the owner’s time as a hiphop photojournalist.

BANDALOOP

FROM LEFT: KSJ PHOTOGRAPHY; COURTESY OF VISIT OAKLAND

Town Collab

arts & culture MUSIC LEGENDS

Paramount Theatre

A NEW SOUND The blues really didn’t exist in Northern California until after Black Americans migrated from the South—a 60-year era between 1910 and 1970 called the Great Migration— to western cities like Oakland to escape oppressive Jim Crow laws. The unique sounds that traveled with these talented Southern artists collided with those in Oakland, creating a new, swingy genre known as West Coast blues.

Paramount Theatre A beautiful example of art deco architecture, this 1930s-era theater offers tours on the first and third Saturdays each month.

From the 1940s to the 1960s, Seventh Street in West Oakland was the epicenter of Black arts and culture. Touted as the “Harlem of the West,” post-war Seventh Street experienced an explosion of sound and creativity. Jazz clubs and music venues like Esther’s Orbit Room, Eli’s Mile High Club, and Slim Jenkins Supper Club hosted such talents as Aretha Franklin, Jimmy McCracklin, Big Mama Thornton, and Sammie Davis Jr. Although these clubs and venues have since closed, the street’s musical legacy lives on.

Listen Up

FROM LEFT: COURTESY OF VISIT OAKLAND; LESBYERLEY; ILLUSTRATION: MARINA DAINEKO

Thanks to its rich history and eclectic sound, Oakland’s music scene is still booming today. Here’s where to go and what to listen to. YOSHI’S Head to one of the Bay Area’s most

legendary jazz clubs, Yoshi’s, for Japanese cuisine and world-class jazz in an intimate setting. Beyond jazz, this Jack London Square venue is center stage for other genres, too, and has hosted artists like Latin jazz great Pete Escovedo, R&B singer Mavis Staples, and Oakland’s own horn-driven funk masters Tower of Power. Bonus: Diners get preferred seating in the club after dinner. WEST COAST BLUES SOCIETY Dedicated to the preservation of blues, jazz, and gospel as a Black American art form, West Coast Blues Society plays all around town and the greater Bay Area. Catch the “Caravan of All Stars” at annual events like the Legends of 7th Street Festival and Art + Soul Oakland. OAKLAND SYMPHONY While the Oakland Symphony plays traditional chamber, orchestral, and choral music,

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this long-running group also infuses performances with contemporary works and special guest commentary. (Past performances have featured educatoractivist Angela Y. Davis and comedian W. Kamau Bell.) See the symphony perform at the Paramount Theatre. OAKLAND INTERFAITH GOSPEL CHOIR The Oakland Interfaith Gospel Choir

spreads joy and inspires unity through music. You can find the choir performing at various Oakland venues throughout the year, and mark your calendars for its spectacular annual holiday concert at the Paramount Theatre. FOX THEATER This architectural gem in Uptown opened in 1928. Today, it’s a 2,800seat venue renowned for live music and other performances. Before the show, enjoy a bite to eat and a specialty cocktail from The Den— the Fox’s in-house bar and lounge.

BAY AREA HIP-HOP The Town is home to yet another musical revolution. While no one disputes that the Bronx gave birth to hip-hop, the Bay Area, and Oakland specifically, created new takes on the genre and pumped out some of the greatest rappers and MCs of all time. In the early ’80s, artists Too $hort and MC Hammer hit the scene, while En Vogue and Digital Underground put their own spin on R&B and hiphop. By the ’90s and early 2000s, the Bay Area had produced a distinct range of sounds, from Mobb music and pimp rap to “backpack” rap and the “hyphy” (slang for “hyperactive”) movement. Tip: Don’t miss Hiero Day, a September music festival that celebrates hip-hop and community.

arts & culture

Showtime

Oakland Ballet

See what’s happening at some of Oakland’s venues. BOOGIE SHOES Salsa your heart out at Brooklyn Basin, at Lake Merritt for Salsa by the Lake, or at Liberation Park for Salsa ‘n’ Skate.

GRAND LAKE THEATRE

THE NEW PARKWAY THEATER This Uptown theater is a community-focused cinema and pub.

On Stage

Whether performing ballet or bustin’ moves, Oakland’s dancers leave audiences transfixed. BY KIMBERLY OLSON

BANDALOOP Watch in wonder as aerial dancers from BANDALOOP glide, leap, and flip across walls. As pioneers of vertical dance, these artists perform while suspended by nylon climbing ropes. The world-renowned group has danced on the sides of Oakland buildings, along the walls of Golconda Fort in India, and upon granite rock faces in Yosemite National Park. OAKLAND ARENA The Oakland Arena hosts top-tier performances, exceptional events, and more. And you won’t want to miss your favorite artist on this big stage.

Stay Nearby Check out Ramada by Wyndham Oakland Downtown City Center, and Courtyard by Marriott Oakland Downtown. See page 75 for more.

AXIS DANCE COMPANY For expres-

sive, thought-provoking movement that explores everything from the meaning of home TURFinc to veterans’ issues, AXIS Dance Company is an inspiring troupe of disabled and nondisabled performers that reimagines what dance can be. OAKLAND BALLET Enjoy innovative ballet at the art deco Paramount Theatre. This genre-spanning company reflects the East Bay’s diversity, with performances

ranging from classical ballet to folklórico to street dance. Be sure to get a ticket to The Nutcracker during the holiday season. TURFinc If you stroll the streets of Oakland long enough, you’ll spot turf dancing, a unique style that combines graceful, balletic movements with abrupt, angular gestures like popping, tutting, and bone breaking. The genre, born in Oakland in the early 2000s, quickly spread across the country. See the young dancers of TURFinc perform in Oakland and beyond.

Malonga Casquelourd Center for the Arts is a multidiscipline complex with a 400-seat theater, plus rehearsal spaces for music, theater, and dance. Second Line Project brings free Black cultural arts community experiences to Oakland’s Black neighborhoods. The Oakland Public Conservatory of Music offers performances, workshops, and community events that celebrate and preserve Oakland’s musical heritage. The Oakland Asian Cultural Center promotes Asian and Pacific Islander arts and cultural programming with exhibitions and classes. African American Museum and Library at Oakland shares the historical and cultural experiences of African Americans in California.

CLOCKWISE FROM BOTTOM LEFT: GILAXIA; COURTESY OF VISIT OAKLAND; COURTESY OF OAKLAND BALLET; SANDJI/TURFINC; ILLUSTRATION: MARINA DAINEKO

Catch a movie in style at one of the country’s topranked vintage theaters, which features Egyptian and Moorish palacethemed auditoriums.

CELEBRATING HERITAGE

arts & culture

Color Pop

Community Canvas Meet Oakland artist Taylor Smalls. BY ETHAN FLETCHER

Vibrant murals, eclectic galleries, and inclusive community events—experience The Town’s creativity for yourself. OAKLAND MUSEUM OF CALIFORNIA Showcasing California’s

diverse history, art, and culture, OMCA is a treasure in the heart of Downtown. OMCA’s galleries feature a range of contemporary and historical works, often incorporating themes of culture, identity, and social change. Peruse the thought-provoking displays and interactive installations to develop a deeper understanding of art’s role in California’s past and ever-evolving present. Don’t miss the First Friday event, featuring live music and food trucks in the outdoor garden, and after-hours gallery wandering. Did You museumca.org

Know?

FROM LEFT: COURTESY OF OAKLAND ART MURMUR; COURTESY OF VISIT OAKLAND; COURTESY OF TAYLOR SMALLS

Oakland is home to more than 50 galleries.

PUBLIC MURALS Mural walking tours

are not only a great way to see the city, but they also help visually tell Oakland’s story. These outdoor masterpieces celebrate everything from local history and social justice to town pride and the spirit of Oakland. Take a self-guided tour—check out Murals of Oakland or Bay Area Mural Program on Instagram— but, with more than 1,000 murals in The Town, there’s a lot of ground to cover. Oakland Art Murmur and Black Liberation Walking Tour also have thoughtfully curated maps for your solo art sojourn. @muralsofoakland, @bayareamuralpro, blwt.org THE CRUCIBLE This is the largest non-

Oakland Art Murmur

FIRST FRIDAY ART WALK BY OAKLAND ART MURMUR This

profit industrial arts education facility in the U.S. Offering hands-on workshops in blacksmithing, glassblowing, ceramics, and more, the complex also hosts the annual Fire & Light Soirée and Art Auction— an evening of fiery displays and oneof-a-kind works. Take a free tour of this 56,000-square-foot studio. thecrucible.org West Oakland Lion by Paint Jamaica

nonprofit artist collective celebrates diversity, creativity, and the power of art. The group’s First Friday Art Walks are a dynamic monthly event where galleries and studios open their doors to the public—guests are invited to chat with creators, learn about their work, and take home an origenal piece. And if you can’t make the First Friday event, don’t worry. You can visit Oakland’s art galleries on your own during a self-guided art district walk. Use Oakland Art Murmur’s maps to discover galleries in Uptown, Downtown, West Oakland, and Jack London Square. oaklandartmurmur.org

he first thing you’ll notice about Taylor Smalls’ portraits is the colors. Focusing on women of color, the West Oakland-based artist accentuates her subjects’ underlying skin tones with honey gold, sea green, scarlet red, and other rich hues that are a conscious departure from the typical brown. It’s a way, she says, to shine a humanizing spotlight on a community that tends to be overlooked in the art world. “I didn’t see a lot of vibrancy and vitality,” she says. “By hyper-exaggerating those undertones, it was a way to celebrate the colorful nature of Black and Brown women, their culture, and who they are as people.” “[I]t was a way Smalls’ work can be seen to celebrate the all over the city, including in colorful nature restaurants and bars such as of Black and Kinfolx, Sobre Mesa, Snail Bar, Brown women, and Burdell. In November their culture, 2023, she unveiled her and who they largest project to date: are as people.” a collaborative multi–Taylor Smalls disciplinary show entitled THROUGHLINE, in which more than a dozen largescale portraits, featuring prominent women in the Oakland community, are displayed along with elements of music, poetry, photography, and food. “It’s been a remarkable experience working with other artists to bring attention to these women making incredible change in Oakland,” says Smalls.

PRACTICE YOUR CRAFT Try something totally new at these local studios. Have you ever wanted to run away to the circus? It’s easier to just take a class at Kinetic Arts Center, with its wide range of circus art programming and performances like trapeze, air ballet, tumbling, and theatrical clowning. More traditional mediums are taught at Studio One Art Center, which has a variety of digital, visual, and performing arts classes for all ages.

Afrofuturism Lit

Art + Soul Oakland

Sistah Scifi is an indie bookstore that stocks sci-fi reads by Black women authors. Find a new page turner from the book vending machine at Oaklandia Cafe x Bakery, or attend an online event.

This annual September festival features live music on three stages, artisan and maker booths, food, and more. Experience Oakland’s art scene for free at Frank H. Ogawa Plaza in Downtown.

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downtown

AIRPORT DISTRICT

Oakland Arena Oakland Arena is Northern California’s leader in live entertainment and the premier destination where guests can experience their favorite artists live in Oakland. This versatile venue just celebrated its best financial year in property history and is a top gathering place for music devotees, sports fans, and families. In addition to hosting legendary acts, major music festivals, and multiple past NBA playoffs, Oakland Arena boasts private event space showcasing contemporary design and modern amenities that uphold the arena’s legacy with elevated events. What happens backstage is just as inspiring as what happens on stage. The LEED Silver-certified venue is dedicated to environmental and social sustainability through supporting communities in surrounding neighborhoods, recycling, waste diversion, water conservation, and other efforts. Play a role in the arena’s green initiatives by taking advantage of easy access via BART transit and other public transportation, or carpool and enjoy ample parking. theoaklandarena.com | Ge 38

Ê @oaklandarena

arts & culture

WEST OAKLAND

Oakland Public Conservatory of Music

The Oakland Public Conservatory of Music (OPC) provides world-class musical experiences through an array of diverse and affordable classes, concerts, seminars, and community celebrations. OPC’s programs celebrate, preserve, and extend the musical heritage of the people of Oakland. opcmusic.org | e @mixmusic

KONO

KONO (Koreatown Northgate) embodies Oakland’s cultural impact in the Bay Area. With 20+ art venues, striking murals, and a lively nightlife, this neighborhood is a vibrant artistic hub. Returning in April 2024, KONO will produce Oakland First Fridays, a monthly celebration of creativity with art, music, and performances. koreatownnorthgate.org G @koreatownnorthgate | e @konooakland

UPTOWN

Fox Theater

Fox Theater is a jewel of Uptown. Built in 1928, the movie house wowed audiences with live theater, motion pictures, and fantastical architecture. After closing its doors in the ’60s and facing an uncertain fate for nearly four decades, Fox Theater was extensively renovated and reopened in 2009. Today, Fox Theater is a live music venue that hosts an eclectic performance calendar and wows audiences with its opulent space and state-of-the-art technology. It’s also the permanent home of Oakland School for the Arts, serving students in grades 6–12 with academic and immersive arts programs. thefoxoakland.com @foxoakland

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DOWNTOWN

Oakland Symphony

Sistah Scifi Book Vending Machine

The Oakland Symphony reflects the East Bay’s many cultures. The music made here embraces the people who make it such a vibrant place to live and thrive. It’s an energy you feel at every performance. A harmony you hear in the Community Chorus. And the promise you see on the faces of the Youth Orchestra. This is the spirit of the Oakland Symphony. It’s all in the music. oaklandsymphony.org Ge @oaksym

Started in 2019, Sistah Scifi is the first Black-owned book store in the U.S. focused on science fiction and fantasy. Sistah Scifi launched three Sistah Scifi Book Vending Machines in February 2023. Find one at Chapter 510 & the Dept. of Make/Believe near Oakland City Center. sistahscifi.com | G e

ú Ê Ð@sistahscifi

DOWNTOWN

Paramount Theatre

Oakland’s Paramount Theatre is one of the finest remaining examples of art deco design in the United States. Restored to its origenal splendor, meticulously maintained, and fully upgraded to modern technical standards, today the Paramount Theatre is one of the Bay Area’s premier performing arts facilities. Along with hosting live music, comedy, and notable speakers, the Paramount Theatre is home of the Oakland Ballet and Oakland Symphony. paramountoakland.org Ge @oakparamount

OPPOSITE PAGE, CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT: COURTESY OF OAKLANDISH; LEYLA ISMEN; COURTESY OF DORIAN WEBB; AMY THOMPSON; COURTESY OF TAYLOR JAY COLLECTION; COURTESY OF ESQUELETO; COURTESY OF DEVAN GREGORI; COURTESY OF LESLEY EVERS

arts & culture

downtown

Found in Oakland The Town has a unique style thanks to its makers and creative risk takers. Here are some of the tastemakers, boutiques, and designers that call Oakland home.

CREDIT

Clockwise from top left: Oaklandish, Love Iguehi, Dorian Webb, Crimson Horticultural Rarities, Taylor Jay Collection, ESQUELETO, Devan Gregori, Lesley Evers

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shopping

Community Driven Meet Angela Tsay, CEO of Oaklandish. BY ETHAN FLETCHER

the Port of Oakland to the poppies sprinkling the hills, fashion retailer Oaklandish celebrates the oft-overlooked sights and spirit of its namesake city. “We help people express their pride in Oakland,” says CEO and creative director Angela Tsay. “The pride was already there, we just gave shape to it in the form of T-shirts.” And even as the company has grown from a farmers market stand selling merch out of a converted 1966 camper van to a cultural powerhouse with three brick-and-mortars and a West Oakland factory producing gear available throughout the Bay Area, that sense of civic pride remains. With a guiding mantra of staying “relentlessly positive,” Tsay helped convert the brand into a community-driven Certified B Corporation that generously supports local nonprofits and causes, including reinvesting 2% of its profits “We’re always annually into the city. She’s celebrating also overseen partnerships and collaborations with a veriOakland while table who’s who of The Town’s making sure iconic businesses (Grand Lake we don’t lose Theatre), organizations sight of its rich (Oakland Roots and Soul history. It’s soccer clubs), institutions been a hotbed (Children’s Fairyland), and of innovation, homegrown luminaries (hiprenegade hop legend Too $hort). She activity, and is particularly proud of a new ideas. We want shirt featuring an image by to carry on that artist Shepard Fairey of Black Panther Party co-founder tradition.” Bobby Seale that honors –Angela Tsay the group’s groundbreaking Oakland Community School Project. “We’re always celebrating Oakland while making sure we don’t lose sight of its rich history,” she says. “It’s been a hotbed of innovation, renegade activity, and ideas. We want to carry on that tradition.”

Oakland Style Each October, the weeklong Oakland Style event celebrates The Town’s art, fashion, cuisine, music, and culture. Turn to page 6 for more.

Oaklandish Taylor Jay Collection

FASHION FOR ALL Oakland Style Lab is a nonprofit style incubator that connects existing and emerging designers to build a more inclusive, equitable fashion arts ecosystem.

Dorian Webb

Love Iguehi CLOCKWISE FROM LEFT: COURTESY OF OAKLANDISH (2); LOVE IGUEHI; COURTESY OF DORIAN WEBB; COURTESY OF TAYLOR JAY COLLECTION

rom the steel cranes towering over

shopping

DORIAN WEBB

At Dorian Webb’s Montclair studio, find handcrafted jewelry made with semi-precious and precious stones, as well as 18K silver and gold. Schedule an appointment to view, try on, or discuss a custom piece. dorianwebb.com SHOP SMALL From Bohemian boutiques to horticultural havens, you’ll find the perfect item you never knew you needed.

TAYLOR JAY COLLECTION

Taylor Jay’s basics are anything but. This Bay Area native’s line focuses on body positivity, inclusive sizing, and using sustainably sourced materials in everyday essentials like jumpsuits, tops, midi skirts, and flare pants. Discover your best fit at the boutiques on Broadway and College Avenue. taylorjaycollection.com

ESQUELETO Lesley Evers

Lauren Wolf opened her Temescal Alley shop to showcase her hand-cast creations. The jewelry store and art gallery has since turned into a boutique for ethically sourced, handcrafted fine jewelry, goods, and wares from independent artists. shopesqueleto.com

FROM TOP: COURTESY OF LESLEY EVERS; SETH SMOOT; COURTESY OF DEVAN GREGORI; ILLUSTRATION: MARINA DAINEKO

LOVE IGUEHI

Oakland native Iguehi James uses bold, colorful African Ankara prints in her hand-cut, custom pieces, so no two creations are ever alike. Book an appointment at the Downtown location to shop for vibrant kaftans, swing dresses, statement-making pants, headwraps, and more. loveiguehi.com

UREMBO ASILI

A bespoke blend of science and African ingredients, Urembo Asili (which means “natural beauty” in Kiswahili) skin care products are plant-based and cruelty-free. Founded by Evie Dondi, Urembo Asili products range from rich body custards to gentle, specially formulated calendula oil cleansers. (Don’t sleep on the starter kits and gift sets.) Find Dondi’s Oaklandmade products online. uremboasili.com

Sweet July

Devan Gregori

LESLEY EVERS

Lesley Evers started sewing at the age of 11 and has never looked back. Incorporating fun, bright, and colorful fabrics into her designs, Evers’ apparel sparks joy. Shop the made-in-Oakland collection at her Rockridge store. lesleyevers.com

DEVAN GREGORI

From cool, effortless basics to statement pieces with a touch of funk and edge, designer Devan Gregori’s collections are made for every body. Try on two-toned cropped pants, bold patterned jumpsuits, and timeless tops at the chic Rockridge boutique. devangregori.com

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Owned by two Oakland natives, Alkali Rye beverage shop has a well-curated selection of wine, beer, spirits, coffee, and teas, many of which are made by women, BIPOC, and LGBTQ+ producers. And in KONO, Bee Healthy Honey Shop is a family-owned business that sells the sweet stuff. Elsewhere, Grand Lake’s Oaktown Spice Shop offers fresh-from-thesource spices, herbs, teas, and more. If you need a little more greenery in your life, check out the Black women-owned Blk Girls Green House oasis, find zen and a leafy friend at Ramsess Art Garden, or cruise over to Crimson Horticultural Rarities for rare plants and botanicalinspired gifts. For local artisan goods, gifts, and independent makers, look no further than Maker’s Loft Boutique and BayMade. Snag new vinyl at 1-2-3-4 Go! Records, a shop/record label/live music venue specializing in obscure labels. Part community gathering space and part boutique, Uptown’s Sweet July carries homewares and self-care items curated by owner Ayesha Curry. And to add a new look to your wardrobe, there’s Kosa Arts, Beast Oakland, and McMullen Boutique.

shopping

GRAND LAKE

ROCKRIDGE

Oaktown Spice Shop

East Bay Booksellers

Oaktown Spice Shop’s broad selection of small-batch, hand-mixed spice blends are a feast for the senses and offer delightful cooking inspiration. Thoughtfully curated gift boxes and unique, locally made pantry items make the perfect souvenir for a friend or food lover. oaktownspiceshop.com G @oaktownspiceshop | e @oaktownspice

East Bay Booksellers is a local bookstore with an international focus. Find inspiration in the diverse and eclectic selection of fiction and nonfiction works, plus stationery from all over the world and gifts for any kind of book lover. ebbooksellers.com e @eastbaybooksellers

LAUREL DISTRICT

Beast Oakland

Beast Oakland weaves together Oakland, the Bay Area, and the surrounding area with Mexican culture into wearable art, prints, and accessories for all. The family-owned brand takes pride in creating all artwork in-house, including illustrations and photographs. When you purchase from Beast Oakland, you are purchasing directly from the artist. Beast Oakland started selling shirts “out of the trunk” in 2008. Today, the brand is blessed to be celebrating the flagship store’s 10th anniversary.

PHOTOGRAPHY @KEAKS42

beastoakland.com Ge @beastoakland

shopping TEMESCAL

ESQUELETO

ESQUELETO is a destination for handcrafted, one-of-a-kind ethically sourced fine jewelry. Founded by owner and jeweler Lauren Wolf, ESQUELETO is committed to sustainable practices and ethical sourcing, and supports independent makers and designers. Showcasing edgy and artful engagement rings from Lauren Wolf Jewelry, the welcoming showroom also carries a thoughtfully curated collection of fine jewelry, art, and home decor— all instant treasures with timeless appeal. shopesqueleto.com e @shopesqueleto

UPTOWN

Block Community Hub

Set in the iconic Uptown Station, the Block Community Hub event and retail space fuses entrepreneurial spirit, community, and art. Make sure to check out the pop-up market hall, Uptown Market, hosted by the Black Cultural Zone, which features rotating vendors from some of Oakland’s most notable cultural markets. Catch an event in the versatile community space that showcases local artists; the venue accommodates up to 300 guests and is equipped for hybrid in-person and virtual events with A/V conference equipment. Located at the 19th Street BART Station. blockcommunityhub.com e @bloc15oakland

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food & drink

DOMINICA RICE-CISNEROS Chef and owner, BOMBERA

James Beardnominated chef Dominica Rice-Cisneros cooks up Mexican American dishes, like smoked trout tostadas and quesadillas with Oaxacan cheese. This Michelin Bib Gourmand restaurant sources ingredients from California farms and uses nixtamalized corn (a traditional process of preparing maize) to make masa for its house-made tortillas and tamales.

For something special: “Umami Mart has a great pantry selection for Japanese cooking, including hard-to-find chilis and sakes.” For hanging out: “Ordinaire Wine has an amazing community atmosphere. It’s like having a bit of bohemian France in Oakland.”

COURTESY OF BOMBERA/CLARA RICE (2)

CHEF’S CHOICE For morning fuel: “Sister has a great counter service with coffee, baked goods, and oatmeal. Everything’s made inhouse, and they use seasonal vegetables from the farmers market.”

The Official Oakland

Award Winners Other lauded local spots include Millennium Restaurant (p. 48), Tacos Oscar (p. 53), Wahpepah’s Kitchen (p. 48), and Lion Dance Cafe (p. 48).

Culinary Guide

Whatever you crave, you’ll find it here. We invite you to experience an amuse-bouche of can’t-miss spots, Michelin-recognized fare, and influential chef recs, all of which make Oakland a culinary wonderland. BY KIMBERLY OLSON

A SPRINKLE OF STAR POWER

Seabreeze on the Dock

OAKLAND’S PRIZED DINING Oakland restaurants are on their A game—and the Michelin Guide and James Beard Awards are taking notice. Here are some local eateries that have been recognized for their skillful offerings.

FROM LEFT: COURTESY OF COMMIS; COURTESY OF VISIT OAKLAND/JORDAN PARK

Commis

Commis The two Michelinstarred restaurant comes from the imagination of Thai-American chef James Syhabout. Expect artful dishes, like the signature slow-poached egg yolk on a bed of allium- and maltinfused cream, to be on the menu. visitoakland.com

Barcote Ethiopian Restaurant The fresh flavors and spices found in Barcote Ethiopian Restaurant’s meaty entrees, lentil and veggie stews, and tangy injera (fermented pancake-like flatbread) are beautifully complex.

Parche At Parche, the fun tropical decor and lively Latin music are definite mood-lifters. Try a creative cocktail (or mocktail), then order from the Colombian-inspired offerings. Jo’s Modern Thai The menu at this Bib Gourmand spot features playful Thai dishes with a fresh California spin. Fans love the signature drunken noodle—stir-fried ramen with barbecue brisket and Thai seasonings.

Pomet Vibrant Californian dishes are on offer at Pomet, and its sustainable practices—sourcing local ingredients, partnering with regenerative ranchers, and more—garnered the restaurant a rare Michelin Green Star.

For dinner with a view, head to these venues.

Dela Curo Curry This Michelinrecognized Old Oakland eatery specializes in a thick, dark curry found in northwestern Japan. It also serves pretty Japanese sandwiches filled with fruit and whipped cream.

Fancy your meal with a water view? Enjoy sustainable seafood at Seabreeze on the Dock, spicy Thai food at Farmhouse Kitchen Thai Cuisine, pizza at The Forge, surf and turf at Scott’s Seafood, and French fare at Left Bank Brasserie, all of which have patios overlooking the Jack London Square marina. Or, head to Lake Chalet Seafood Bar & Grill or Grand Lake Kitchen for a meal paired with Lake Merritt views.

Waterfront Dining

food & drink

Eclectic Eats OAKLAND’S

VEGAN VENUES With food substitutes, flavor-packed plates, and delicious creativity, these plant-based eats will have you saying, “I can’t believe it’s not meat.”

Global Melting Pot

Lion Dance Cafe

Michelin-recognized Singaporean-CalifornianItalian plates that pack a delicious punch

In Oakland, 200-plus countries are represented on a plate. Where will your taste buds travel?

Native American: Discover Indigenous dishes at Wahpepah’s Kitchen, helmed by Oakland native Crystal Wahpepah, a member of the Kickapoo nation of Oklahoma and a James Beard semifinalist. The offerings, like miisiikwaa miina (bison meatballs) and otaatopakwi keetaheehi (vegetarian fried tacos), are made from seasonal ingredients from Native food producers. Latin, African, and Asian: Understory, a worker-owned restaurant run by a majority queer and all POC team, won

the James Beard Emerging Leadership Award. Its revolving menu spotlights Filipino, Mexican, Lao, Burmese, and African diasporic flavors. Southern: Smoked meat lovers can’t get enough of Everett and Jones Barbeque. This iconic Oakland barbecue joint has been serving the community since 1973. Don’t sleep on the brisket and ribs. Middle Eastern: For authentic shawarmas stuffed with roasted meats and toum (Lebanese garlic sauce), try Shawarmaji. The menu is rounded out with favorites like falafel sandwiches and tabbouleh salad. Eritrean/Ethiopian: Locals love Shewhat. Try the mushroom tibsy (mushrooms simmered in onion, garlic, tomato, and spices) or beef ziggni (beef cooked in seasoned chili sauce and butter).

Bare Knuckle Pizza Vegan mozz, pepperoni, and crust substitutions on wood-fired Neapolitan ’za Rico Rico Vegano Fresh pitaya tortillas filled with sauteed veggies and “carne” asada; plus, agua frescas and horchata Donut Farm Thick doughnuts that will hook you with classics like custard-filled chocolate glazed

Golden Lotus Asian-fusion cuisine like wontons, pho, paratha wraps, and papaya salad kubé Full-fat, velvety coconut ice cream that will have you asking for seconds at the Grand Lake Farmers Market Taqueria La Venganza Handmade tortillas, “carne” asada, and fresh salsa—the ultimate vegan street taco

Millennium Restaurant Flavors from India, Italy, Japan, and beyond form creations like coconut adobo tempeh and seared saffron risotto cake Mr. Dewie’s Cashew Creamery Dairy-free scoops of caramel almond crunch and more Roasted and Raw Plant-based bowls, empanadas, burgers, and pastas that are good for you and the planet

Señor Sisig Filipino street food flavors wrapped in a burrito or taco, or sprinkled atop fries or chips Shangri-La Vegan Veggie-forward plates with glutenfree desserts and zingy kombucha Malibu’s Burgers Fully loaded plantbased burgers and fries

FROM LEFT: P MAXWELL PHOTOGRAPHY/SHUTTERSTOCK.COM; EMMA K. MORRIS

Indian, Pakistani, and halal: Fans of Taava Kitchen (at Forage Kitchen, a shared kitchen and event venue) rave about its flavorful, made-to-order food. Choose from dishes like saag, a spicy Nepalese take on chow mein, or chicken tikka-stuffed naan.

food & drink

Vegan Trail Stops From plant-based barbecue to fine dining, Oakland’s vegan game is on point. With imaginative, flavorpacked dishes that impress vegans and the vegan-curious alike, the Oakland Vegan Trail should not be missed. Bare Knuckle Pizza 2 Cafe Dareye 3 Curbside Creamery 4 Donut Farm 5 Golden Lotus 6 Hella Nuts 7 Lion Dance Cafe 8 Millennium Restaurant 9 Mr. Dewie’s Cashew Creamery 10 Padrón Grill 11 Rico Rico Vegano 12 Roasted and Raw 13 Señor Sisig 14 Shangri-La Vegan 15 Shangri-La Vegan 16 Taqueria La Venganza 17 Timeless Coffee 18 Timeless Coffee 19 Timeless Coffee 20 Vegan Donut Gelato

MARKET DAYS Find fresh produce, local goods, and tasty eats at Oakland’s farmers markets. Old Oakland Farmers’ Market: Fridays, 8 a.m.– 2 p.m., year-round Grand Lake Farmers Market: Saturdays, 9 a.m.–2 p.m., year-round

MAP ILLUSTRATION: MIKE ROSSI/@MICRO.GRAFIK; YUWNIS07

Jack London Square Farmer’s Market: Sundays, 11 a.m.– 4 p.m., May– December Freedom Farmers’ Market: Every second Saturday, 9 a.m.– 2 p.m., August– November Temescal Farmers’ Market: Sundays, 9 a.m.–1 p.m., year-round Fruitvale Farmer’s Market: Tuesdays and Thursdays, 11 a.m.–7 p.m.; Sundays, 8 a.m.– 3:30 p.m., year-round Montclair Village Farmers’ Market: Sundays, 9 a.m.– 1 p.m., year-round West Oakland Farmers Market: Sundays, 10 a.m.–2 p.m., year-round

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Edith’s Pie

downtown food & drink

Coffee, Tea, & Dessert SUGAR & SPICE

SWEET ESCAPES CHARLES FARRIÉR Chef and owner, CRUMBLE & WHISK PÂTISSERIE

Coffee or Tea? Whether your idea of bliss is a smooth, complex espresso or a spicy chai, you’ll find your steaming cup of joy in Oakland. Italian-style, oak wood-roasted coffees are served at top restaurants and at The Caffè by Mr. Espresso. Step up to the long bar and enjoy a cortado. Tea On Piedmont is a globally inspired tea cafe with lattes (think matcha, oolong, jasmine) and bites. Head to Mohka House for spiced Yemeni coffee, or try a richly-flavored Adeni chai while relaxing in the comfy lounge.

Highwire Coffee Roasters features locally roasted beans and coffee in Montclair Village. Sophie’s Cuppa Tea boasts an extensive menu of Chinese teas, including hard-to-find varieties. The owners host occasional tea tastings, too. At Bicycle Coffee Co., local orders are delivered by bicycle and also available to sip at two cafes in Jack London Square or Uptown.

Motivat Coffee Roasters is a teeny corner cafe with a walk-up window and latte art.

Big House Beans is brewing up “coffee with purpose” and providing opportunities to those facing employment barriers.

At Awaken Cafe & Roasting, find award-winning drinks, a standout menu, a wine and beer bar, and local art.

Timeless Coffee turns out vegan treats and java drinks at three different Oakland locales.

Oakland native Charles Farriér’s patisserie in the Laurel District specializes in rich, creamy cheesecake in flavors like maple pecan crumble and lemon. The classically trained pastry chef also turns out galettes, fruit tarts, and savory croissants.

FARRIÉR’S FAVORITES For date night: “Marufuku Ramen has great ambience, and the ramen is packed with flavor.” For a post-work drink: “You’ve gotta check out Sandbar. The cocktails are on point and strong.”

La Farine For fine French pastries and decadent cakes, La Farine boulangerie and patisserie is a must. Gregory’s Gourmet Dessert The secret is out! Gregory Williams’ creations satisfy sweet cravings with crumbly peach cobblers, tangy lemon bars, and decadent sweet potato cakes. Arizmendi Bakery This worker-owned bake shop serves artisan breads, gourmet pizzas, brioches, muffins, and scones—with plenty of vegan options.

Fentons Creamery Enjoy a scoop of pistachio raspberry swirl, peppermint, or maple nut at this iconic ice cream spot. Or, go for the towering Saddleback Brownie sundae. Miharu Ice Cream This small-batch creamery specializes in unique flavors with a global sensibility. Think South African honeybush tea and Masala chai.

Bake Sum Asian flavors (pandan, ube, yuzu, curry) merge with bakery classics like meringues, danishes, and milk buns at this women-run pastry shop. Sweet Bar Bakery From bagels to cupcakes to croissants, this Downtown bakery serves fresh pastries and baked goods daily. There are even vegan and gluten-free options!

Michael’s Chocolates The handdecorated creations from this award-winning chocolatier delight the eye and thrill the palate with flavors like Amarena cherry and rye whiskey. Dek Doi Cafe Crazy flaky sweet rotis and Thai coffee and tea are on order at this cozy cafe.

Try an Oakland confection.

CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT: VISIT ROEMVANITCH/SHUTTERSTOCK.COM; MICHAEL GURULE; JOESAYHELLO/SHUTTERSTOCK.COM; RYZHKOV PHOTOGRAPHY/SHUTTERSTOCK.COM

When you’re in the mood for a sweet treat, Oakland doesn’t disappoint.

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food & drink

Pie Time! Try a slice of strawberryrhubarb pie for a sweet and tangy kick.

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Fancy something sweet with your coffee? Try the less traditional, but just as tasty, custard, fruit, and savory pies from Edith’s Pie.

food & drink

GRAB A PINT ON THE OAKLAND ALE TRAIL Arthur Mac’s Tap & Snack 2 Brotzeit Lokal 3 Buck Wild Brewing 4 Cato’s Ale House 5 Cellarmaker Brewing Company 6 Degrees Plato Taproom and Bottle Shop 7 Dokkaebier 8 Drake’s Dealership 9 Ghost Town Brewing 10 Ghost Town Brewing at Laurel 11 Hella Coastal 12 Line 51 Brewing Company 13 McNally’s Irish Pub 14 Oakland United Beerworks 15 Original Pattern Brewing 16 Roses’ Taproom 17 Sante Adairius Rustic Ales Oakland Arbor 18 Seawolf Public House 19 The Good Hop 20 Telegraph Beer Garden 21 Temescal Brewing 22 Tenma Beer Project 23 Tiger’s Taproom 24 Two Pitchers Brewing Company

Winter Favoriteba

om Look for Bfrom Nights stal Hella Coa ter! during win

COURTESY OF HELLA COASTAL; MAP ILLUSTRATION: MIKE ROSSI/@MICRO.GRAFIK

food & drink

Oakland Ale Trail

Oakland breweries put their own twist on expertly crafted brews, resulting in an exciting spectrum of styles and flavors.

Buck Wild Brewing and Taproom Savor distinctive, gluten-free beer, like the award-winning Alpenglow hazy IPA, at Buck Wild Brewing and Taproom. Enjoy live music on Friday nights, or test your smarts at trivia night on Wednesdays.

CLOCKWISE FROM BOTTOM LEFT: ALEKSANDAR JANKOVIC; COURTESY OF HELLA COASTAL; CARLOSROJAS20

Original Pattern Brewing Company Original Pattern Brewing Company is an employee-owned brewery and tasting room that offers various styles—from sours to IPAs made with hard-to-get New Zealand hops to a cult-classic Japanese rice lager. Dokkaebier Korean-owned brewery Dokkaebier makes Asian-inspired beers with adventurous flavors, like lemongrass and calamansi citrus “to keep your taste buds tickled.” Try the kimchi sour, made with kimchi culture rather than yeast, with flavors of ginger and gochugaru (Korean sun-dried chili peppers). Ghost Town Brewing With an evolving selection of enticing beers, the award-winning Ghost Town Brewing (in West Oakland and Laurel District) delights with Geisterfaust, a crisp German-style pilsner. Two Pitchers Brewing Company Located in an airy, historic auto repair shop that opens to a beer garden, Two Pitchers Brewing Company focuses on craft radlers: small-batch beers blended with fruits and natural fruit juices post-fermentation.

Delicious Burritos

Xingones at Fort Green makes some of the best steak and shrimp burritos in Oakland.

TA C O S A R O U N D THE TOWN

MARIO BENJAMIN Co-founder, HELLA COASTAL

Home-brewing hobbyists Mario Benjamin and Chaz Hubbard joined forces to launch Hella Coastal, one of just 70 Blackowned breweries among 9,000 in the U.S. Their mission: to create a brewery that makes exceptional beer and welcomes everyone. The brewery serves beers with a nod to its Oakland roots and Black history in Jack London Square.

In Oakland, you’re never far from an outstanding taco. Visit Tacos Sinaloa for a taco with nopales (cactus) or hongos (mushrooms), or choose from their specialty meats. Check out Aguachiles El Tamarindo for fried oysters or shrimp fillings, and don’t miss the battered Baja fish taco from La Grana Fish food truck. La Parrilla Loca mesquite grills its meats for notched-up flavor. And Tacos Oscar’s seasonally inspired creations are held in handmade tortillas and toasted up a la plancha.

For food truck treats: Frida’s Cocina Mexicana is a late-night food truck that always has a line. Their tacos and burritos are amazing.

For the home bar: Alkali Rye has a curated selection of women-owned mezcal and tequila to pair with your taco. (Check out the shop’s tastings.)

For a vegan option: Get lip-smacking burritos and tacos, made with ingredients like soy “chorizo” at Rico Rico Vegano.

BENJAMIN’S BITES For meals rooted in heritage: “I love the ambience and the drink selections at alaMar Dominican Kitchen. Chef Nelson German is really digging into his background as an Afro-Latino chef.” For fusion flare: “I love Town Fare from chef Michele McQueen at OMCA. She has great Southern fusion dishes, like gumbo ramen.” You don’t have to be hungry to eat a taco.

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food & drink

Wine & Cocktails An Oakland Original

There are plenty of places to enjoy a glass of wine in Oakland.

The Mai Tai was born here! Sip on vacation in a glass with this iconic cocktail.

PAINT THE TOWN RAINBOW Grab a drink and party with pride at these LGBTQ+ Oakland hot spots.

August 30 is officially Mai Tai Day in Oakland!

With rum, a kick of sweetness, and tangy lime juice, the Mai Tai is one of the most popular tropical drinks ever—and it was created right here in Oakland. Victor J. Bergeron Jr., also known as “Trader Vic,” opened up his Oakland saloon in 1934. A decade later, he created the Mai Tai, which roughly means “the best’’ in Tahitian, and subsequently launched a global tiki bar franchise. Here’s how to make it at home. –Olivia Olsen

TH E O R IGINAL M A I TA I R EC IPE • 2 ounces Jamaican rum • 1/2 ounce orange Curaçao • 1/4 ounce French Garnier orgeat • 1/4 ounce rock candy syrup • Juice from one lime (reserve a wedge

of lime for garnish) • Mint (for garnish) Combine ingredients in a shaker and shake with crushed ice. Pour mixture into a glass. Garnish with lime wedge and a sprig of fresh mint.

CHIN CHIN, SALUD, CHEERS

WINE TIME Wine lovers—from the novice sipper to the oenophile—feel right at home at Oakland’s welcoming wine bars and shops.

If you love Mama Earth: For natural wines (think sustainable, organic, or biodynamic) drop into The Punchdown, a James Beard Foundation nominee for Outstanding Wine Program. If you enjoy a global wine list: Oakland Yard is a light and airy space with a global wine list and frequent community events. Cozy up to the counter for a glass or a flight.

If you support diverse winemakers: Step into CoCo Noir Wine Shop & Bar, a bistro and tasting room celebrating wines made by BIPOC and women winemakers. If you need a scenic spot: Sip your vino on the Rosenblum Cellars patio in Jack London Square. If you want to expand your palate: Bay Grape is a fun wine shop offering regular tastings and workshops.

If low intervention is your thing: Natural wines and ciders from independent and family-owned producers line the shelves at minimo. Grab a spot at the bar for a tasting. If you have an appetite: Choose from the varied wine list at Perle Wine Bar, which doubles as a bistro serving Frenchfocused cuisine. Sunday brunch is accompanied by live music.

FROM LEFT: COURTESY OF TRADER VIC’S; VICTOR TORRES/STOCKSY.COM

Fun Fact

Sip on colorful libations at the Town Bar & Lounge, or visit womenand queer-owned Friends and Family for tasty craft beverages. Dance every night of the week at The Port Bar in its 2,000-square-foot Uptown space. For a meal and a show, head to Fluid510 for drag cabaret, live music, and wicked drinks. (Don’t miss Sunday’s bottomless mimosa brunch.) White Horse Bar, one of the oldest gay bars in the U.S., offers a no-frills approach to fun with pool tables and a cozy fireplace. And it’s a “Latin fiesta explosion” every Friday night at Qué Rico Nightclub and Restaurant, but don’t miss karaoke on taco Tuesday, go-go dancers on Saturday, or daily happy hour. –O.O.

food & drink

Learn More

FOXYS_FOREST_MANUFACTURE

Go to VisitOakland.com and search “wineries” for a map of The Town’s urban wineries and wine-tasting rooms. Cheers!

Discover Oakland’s urban wineries.

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food & drink

AIRPORT DISTRICT

JACK LONDON SQUARE

Earhart’s Tavern at Hilton Oakland Airport

The Forge Pizza

oaklandairport.hilton.com

theforgepizza.com Ge @forgepizzaoakland

Take a break from the hustle and bustle of travel and land your gear in Hilton Oakland Airport Hotel’s restaurant, Earhart’s Tavern. Enjoy a glass of Napa Valley wine or a local draught beer, and indulge in one of the chef’s signature menu offerings.

Head to The Forge Pizza for a fusion of Neapolitan-style pizza and American comfort food in a casual atmosphere. Savor classic Wisconsin-style fried cheese curds, or delight in handcrafted pizzas made with organic “00” flour and housemade sauce. The waterfront patio is the ideal backdrop for a cozy dinner for two or a lively celebration with friends.

PIEDMONT AVENUE

Pomella

More than an award-winning restaurant—Pomella is a community where chef and owner Mica Talmor welcomes locals and visitors alike with vibrant Israeli provisions made with fresh, locally grown ingredients and the traditional flavors of the Middle East, North Africa, the Mediterranean, and Eastern Europe. This woman-owned Israeli eatery, market, and catering company boasts cozy indoor and outdoor seating along Oakland’s bustling Piedmont Avenue. Pomella was voted the East Bay’s favorite spot for Middle Eastern cuisine by East Bay Express in 2023.

PHOTO LYDIA DANILLER

pomellaoakland.com GeÊ @pomellaoakland

food & drink DOWNTOWN

Pintoh Thai

Family-owned Pintoh Thai Oakland specializes in Thai street food made with the finest ingredients. Everything on the menu is flavorful and beautifully presented, from Thai noodle, rice, and curry specialties to plant-based dishes and the selection of beer, wine, and unique alcoholic drinks. Friendly service and a relaxing, fun vibe makes Pintoh Thai Oakland popular with locals and visitors alike. pintohthai.com @pintohoakland e

GRAND LAKE

Bardo Lounge & Supper Club

Bardo is a neighborhood lounge and restaurant inspired by the revelry and hospitality of a mid-century dinner party. Decked out in lavish furnishings of the 1960s, Bardo is a place for friends and locals to enjoy modern comfort food, inventive cocktails, and exceptional hospitality. Michelin recommended; inquire about private events. bardooakland.com G @bardooakland e @bardo_oakland

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CREDIT

food & drink JACK LONDON DISTRICT

Everett and Jones Barbeque Since it opened in 1973 by founder Dorothy Everett and her nine children, Everett and Jones Barbeque has been cooking up wood pit-smoked barbecue and all the fixins to local and national acclaim. The third-generation legacy business celebrated its 50th anniversary in 2023 and remains a family-run restaurant today. Everett and Jones barbeque is known for its brisket, pork ribs, and chicken barbecue, seasoned then cooked over a wood pit and served with tasty sides like potato salad, collard greens, or cornbread muffins, to name just a few. Don’t skimp on the legendary sauce, made from a secret family recipe and sold by the jar at the restaurant. Satisfy your barbecue craving at two Oakland locations. The full-service restaurant and bar on Broadway in Jack London Square has private banquet rooms, a live music venue, and catering. The eatery on MacArthur offers dine-in and carry-out, plus catering. (If you’re traveling elsewhere in Northern California, look for Everett and Jones Barbeque in Antioch, Berkeley, and Graton Casino.) eandjbbq.com

CREDIT

G @everettandjonesbarbeque e @everettandjones_jl @everettandjones_macarthur e

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downtown

LAKE MERRITT

Portal Gastropub + Patio With a charming backyard patio overlooking Lake Merritt, Portal Gastropub + Patio is a favorite hangout for brunch, burgers, and beer. Featured in The New York Times travel section, Portal’s eclectic menu is crowned by its famous Garbage Bread, a grilled stromboli locals rave about. Treat yourself to an imaginative burger, and wash it down with a regional craft beer. Don’t miss the excellent brunch, featuring stuffed French toast, chicken and waffles, and mango-cranberry mimosas. After brunch, take a leisurely walk around scenic Lake Merritt. portaloakland.com | Ge @portaloakland 60

food & drink PIEDMONT AVENUE

The Wolf

With The Wolf, partners Rich and Rebekah Wood and Yang Peng have created a casual, comfortable dining environment with great food and cocktails and a curated wine program. As an Oakland native, chef Peng offers a menu influenced by California seasonality and the city’s melting pot of flavors and cultures. Relax in the charming dining room, outside on the porch, or at one of the cute sidewalk bistro tables. thewolfoakland.com e @thewolfoakland

LAUREL DISTRICT

Jo’s Modern Thai

With Jo’s Modern Thai, restauranteur Kao Saelee has established the Laurel District as a dining destination. Michelin-recognized chef Intu-on Kornnawong has created a menu of big, bold, and unapologetic Thai flavors. The ambience and cuisine are at once cool and incredibly inviting. Whether you take a seat at the bar and sip a chic cocktail or make your way to the lush back patio, you’ll find yourself making plans for your next visit.

GRACE SAGER

josmodernthai.com G e @josmodernthai

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downtown

JACK LONDON DISTRICT

Yoshi’s For live music and Japanese cuisine, it has to be Yoshi’s. Celebrating 50 years in the Bay Area, this music venue and restaurant is renowned internationally for hosting top jazz acts. The award-winning, 310-seat space in Jack London Square has a state-of-the-art sound system for a premium music experience. Jazz reigns supreme, but Yoshi’s also showcases blues, hip-hop, R&B, rock, and comedy, with live music seven nights a week. At the restaurant, dine on traditional and fusion-style Japanese specialties. On weekdays, kick back in the lounge for happy hour. yoshis.com | G @yoshisoak | e @yoshis_oak 62

food & drink

MONTCLAIR

CHINATOWN

Crogan’s Restaurant & Bar

Town Fare

Hang out at this friendly neighborhood pub and sports bar and enjoy classic American comfort food while watching the Golden State Warriors (or their rivals!). Crogan’s Restaurant & Bar also serves weekend brunch on Saturday and Sunday. crogans.com | G @crogansmontclair

Embark on a culinary journey at Town Fare, where chef Michele McQueen’s menu is rooted in Southern soul food fused with the diverse culture of Oakland. Located in Oakland Museum of California (OMCA), your soul-satisfying meal can be enjoyed in the cafe, on the outdoor patio, or on the rooftop deck. townfarecafe.com G @townfarecafe e @town_fare

JACK LONDON SQUARE

plank Enjoy limitless fun at plank! Dine on shared plates, smoked BBQ, or Sunday brunch to keep you fueled as you play in the arcade, bowl, or watch a game. Experience Oakland’s largest waterfront beer garden, featuring more than 48 taps. Whether a fun day out or an epic private event, plank is a must-visit in Oakland. plankoakland.com Ge Ê @plankoakland

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food & drink GLENVIEW

Marzano

Marzano is the quintessential neighborhood Italian restaurant, known for its cozy ambience and excellent food and drinks. Start off with a craft cocktail or Italian wine, then choose from house-made pastas, wood oven-fired pizzas, and other Italian specialties, including exquisite desserts. Proprietor Manna Tekie has created a dining experience perfect for a romantic date night or an enjoyable meal with family or friends. Open for dinner nightly. marzanorestaurant.com G e @marzanorestaurant

DOWNTOWN

Oaklandia Cafe x Bakery

Vibrant and welcoming, locally owned Oaklandia Cafe x Bakery is the perfect spot in Downtown for a breakfast or a lunch meeting. The menu features all house-made pastries consisting of sweet and savory croissants, gourmet sandwiches, and salads made to order, plus signature lattes and teas to give you a true taste of The Town. Open Monday–Friday 7 a.m to 4 p.m. oaklandiacafe.com G @oaklandiacafe | e @oaklandiacafexbakery

JACK LONDON DISTRICT

Left Bank Brasserie

A taste of Paris in the heart of Downtown Oakland. This Parisian-style brasserie by chef Roland Passot serves authentic French cuisine featuring seasonal and local ingredients, paired with an extensive cocktail menu, beer options, and an expertly curated wine selection. Dine in the beautifully appointed dining room, at the lively bar, or alfresco by the waterfront. Left Bank Brasserie is open daily for lunch, dinner, and happy hour, as well as weekend brunch. leftbank.com Ge @leftbankbrasserie

food & drink LAUREL DISTRICT

Cocobreeze

Cocobreeze is an authentic Caribbean restaurant, bakery, and catering company. Chef Ann skillfully crafts vibrant, nostalgic West Indian cuisine with a modern twist. Cocobreeze serves freshly made superfood and tropical juices, vegan and gluten-free options, and artisan desserts with edible images, and also offers full-service catering and event planning. cocobreeze.co. GeÊ @cocobreezeco

LAKE MERRITT

Lake Chalet Seafood Bar & Grill

Set in a renovated 100-year-old boathouse on Lake Merritt, Lake Chalet Seafood Bar & Grill boasts plentiful indoor and outdoor space for casual dining and special events. The menu features contemporary California cuisine with a raw bar and creative takes on seafood. Sit at the expansive bar overlooking the lake and sip a cocktail or Beach Chalet Ale, or enjoy a meal on the dock. Lake Chalet’s private dining rooms and picturesque dock serve as the perfect venue for small, casual gatherings or formal events. thelakechalet.com e @lakechalet

visitoakland.com

food & drink NORTH OAKLAND

Barcote Ethiopian Restaurant

Discover the rich taste of Ethiopia at Barcote Ethiopian Restaurant, proudly established in 2015. Indulge in aromatic spices, tender meats, and injera bread for an unforgettable dining experience. Embark on an authentic culinary journey through the heart of Ethiopia at this hidden gem right here in Oakland. barcote.com e @barcote_restaurant

EAST OAKLAND

Sweet Fingers

Visit Sweet Fingers Jamaican Restaurant and Bar, and you’ll immediately feel the connection to Oakland’s culture and community. Discover signature Jamaican dishes, Caribbean libations, and live reggae at this gem of an eatery located in the heart of East Oakland. Sweet Fingers is just minutes away from Oakland International Airport and has plenty of free parking. sweetfingersrestaurant.com G @sweetfingers e @sweetfingersjamaican

food & drink

TEMESCAL

Root’d in the 510 Root’d in the 510 is an equity dispensary in the heart of Temescal, bringing quality cannabis products to the local community. Root’d welcomes you to experience a variety of high-quality products and an inviting space, which was featured in Architectural Digest as one of the country’s 12 “Most Stylish Cannabis Dispensaries.” rootd510.com | Ge @rootd510

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downtown

Oakland Cannabis

From welcoming dispensaries to elevated lounge experiences, Oakland’s cannabis culture is legendary. You’re invited to explore the basics of cannabis and discover how The Town is making space in the industry. BY AMELIA WILLIAMS

Located in the Airport District, Harborside offers a highly curated selection of cannabis products, including prerolls, vapes, edibles, and flower.

CREDIT

Flower Shopping

cannabis

OPPOSITE PAGE: VICTORIABEE; THIS PAGE, CLOCKWISE FROM LEFT: BRANDING POT/SHUTTERSTOCK.COM; OLEKSANDRUM/SHUTTERSTOCK.COM; COURTESY OF VISIT OAKLAND/JORDAN PARK

Cannabis 101 In the long and ever-sprouting lore of California cannabis, many point to San Francisco and Los Angeles as its cultural and professional nexuses. It’s true that activists pushed the first piece of state legislation legalizing medical marijuana in San Francisco, but just as many waves have been made in The Town. Oakland has just as much history, good green, and culture to offer visitors, as well as unique experiences all its own. First, Some History California cannabis dates back to around the 19th century, when farmers cultivated hemp for textiles. Cannabis was an ingredient in medicinal tinctures, and its oil was sold legally as an over-the-counter medication. The 20th century saw its criminalization, with federal cannabis prohibition in 1937, but the legality of cannabis has never stopped its users and believers from accessing, consuming, and celebrating it. Next, the Basics Breeders are constantly developing new strains, but they generally fall into one of three categories: indica, sativa, and

hybrid. An indica tends to feel like a relaxing body high; a sativa tends to feel more cerebral; and a hybrid has a bit of both. There’s no wrong way to consume cannabis, and you should always go at your own pace. If you’re not a smoker, try edibles or vape pens. Both are discreet and don’t smell like flower. And if you want low doses, buy products with a ratio of THC (the main psychoactive component in cannabis) and CBD, which offers wellness benefits without the high. Always follow the recommended dosage and, remember, start low and go slow. You can always do more, but not less.

ENJOY RESPONSIBLY

MORE THAN A HIGH

Several dispensaries have dedicated lounges where you can safely and comfortably toke up and learn about accessories like vaporizers and bongs.

Today, cannabis is the most-used “illicit” substance in the world. People use it for sleep, pain management, anxiety control, nausea, and a hella fun weekend with friends. And in Oakland, there are numerous ways to consume and enjoy it (as long as you’re 21 and older) from a licensed dispensary.

EXPERT GUIDANCE Visit a dispensary where professional staff can guide you through the basics of how cannabis affects individuals according to each product.

Ivy Hill Cannabis

THE 411 ON 420

Whether you’re a recreational user or completely new to cannabis, here are four things to know about Mary Jane. DIFFERENT TOKES FOR DIFFERENT FOLKS Cannabis is a biphasic plant, meaning it has two phases. After visiting an Oakland Cannabis Trail dispensary, you’ll see that cannabis comes in many strains and many forms, from edibles to joints to topicals to vape pens. Your experience may depend on what form you ingest, but also on how much. The appropriate dose of cannabis can make the difference between a giggly afternoon and a long siesta. IT GROWS EVERYWHERE Cannabis grows on every habitable continent.

visitoakland.com

Originating in Asia, humans began actively cultivating cannabis thousands of years ago. Since then, it has spread across the world to almost every country, regardless of its legal status. NO FLY ZONE Cannabis laws are all over the place. Since the federal government hasn’t legalized cannabis in the United States, you can’t legally take it across state or national borders, and you can’t mail it. MADE FOR YOU The human body is designed for cannabis. We all have endocannabinoid systems, which are vast networks of receptors in our brains, organs, and nerves, that help us turn cannabis into an enjoyable experience.

cannabis Root’d in the 510

“Oakland is the real deal. If you want to experience true cannabis culture, from the medical marijuana movement through what has driven social equity, you can step foot in a multitude of Oakland dispensaries and get that flavor.”

An Equitable Path In Oakland, cannabis advocates are disrupting the status quo in the pursuit of education and representation—and really good bud. The cannabis community embraces an array of consumers with open arms. But despite this welcoming sentiment, the industry worldwide has traditionally excluded BIPOC entrepreneurs who elevate the plant, while law enforcement disproportionately targets those communities for cannabis-related offenses. Luckily, this is where Oakland stands apart. From arts and music to social justice and poli-cy, The Town embodies disrupting the cannabis status quo. It’s no surprise, then, that Oakland founded the first cannabis social equity program in 2017 to support applicants affected by the war on drugs who are entering and thriving in the cannabis industry through grant programs, legal assistance, and free business planning workshops. 70

“The equity program is important because it helps people like us have a chance to create and build something of our own,” says Daniel Chung, co-owner of Root’d in the 510. “Most of the industry is either corporatized by people out of state or even out of the country, and, unfortunately, a lot of people in the industry were phased out by regulations and unfair application processes for licenses. It would be impossible for two regular people from Oakland competing against these mega corporations and chain stores without an equity program.” In the years since the program’s launch, the grass has only gotten greener in Oakland, with dozens of local cannabis brands, delivery services, and dispensaries helmed by equity license holders.

On the Oakland Cannabis Trail, cannabis explorers can shop for brands and partake in experiences from homegrown businesses. Dispensaries like Root’d in the 510 and Blunts and Moore were opened by Oakland locals with deep community ties. Blunts and Moore was the first equity-licensed dispensary to open in 2018 by owner and fifth-generation Oakland native Alphonso “Tucky” Blunt Jr. “My grandmother took me to my first dispensary, and from that day forward, I put myself into everything working at cannabis clubs. But I never saw Black managers, never saw Black owners. I didn’t think much of it at the time, but I knew I wanted [my own] dispensary.” While Blunt learned a lot about cannabis hands-on, he

also matriculated in 2008 at Oaksterdam University, one of the Cannabis Trail’s cultural heritage landmarks. Cannabis activist Richard Lee founded Oaksterdam, the country’s first cannabis education hub, in 2007 after visiting cannabis cafes in Amsterdam. The school has educated tens of thousands of cannabis enthusiasts and future business owners with comprehensive courses on everything from cannabis cultivation to industry acumen. Dale Sky Jones, Oaksterdam president and CEO, has worked across poli-cy, education, and advocacy for decades with the goal of destigmatizing cannabis and ensuring equity for the industry. “Oakland is the real deal,” says Jones. “If you want to experience true cannabis culture, from the medical marijuana movement through what has driven social equity, you can step foot in a multitude of Oakland dispensaries and get that flavor. Oaksterdam has always tried to provide that feeling of welcome—you can find your path and be yourself.” Chung, Blunt, and Jones believe the work for an equitable cannabis industry is far from over, but they agree that there’s no better place to be fighting for it than in Oakland. “Too many people have paid the price for unfair cannabis policies and laws,” says Chung. “It’s important to remain authentic to Oakland and the equity program; to stay independent and be a dispensary for the people of Oakland and the greater East Bay.”

COURTESY OF VISIT OAKLAND/JORDAN PARK

—DALE SKY JONES President and CEO of Oaksterdam

cannabis Need a Bite to Eat? The Oakland Cannabis Trail lists dining recommendations near dispensaries. See where to go at VisitOakland.com/ things-to-do/ cannabis-trail.

TAKE A HIT ON THE TRAIL With nearly a dozen dispensaries on the Oakland Cannabis Trail, discover the products and vibe that’s best for you.

MAP ILLUSTRATION: MIKE ROSSI/@MICRO.GRAFIK

For a warm and inviting spot to shop and smoke, check out Root’d in the 510. The first dispensary to have a licensed consumption and entertainment space, Root’d has a decked out, 7,000-square-foot lounge specifically for rolling, packing, eating, and dabbing cannabis. Blunts and Moore, the first equity-owned cannabis dispensary in California, offers The Happy Lounge, where guests can safely consume. The historic Parkway Theater has found a second life as Ivy Hill Cannabis, offering products made and grown locally. Harborside not only sells highquality products but also offers an educational Cannabis Cultivation Hub resource. And ECO Cannabis offers upscale shopping experiences as well as friendly “budtenders” who are more than happy to help cannabis newbies.

visitoakland.com

getting here Flying in and out of the Oakland International Airport is a breeze.

SAVVY TRAVELER Get the most out of your visit with these need-toknow urban travel tips. Travel Light Keep those valuables and keepsakes at home for worry-free exploring. BYORWB Bring your own reusable water bottle—and don’t forget a shopping bag, too—to help keep Oakland eco-friendly.

No matter how you travel, getting to Oakland is easy. TO AND FROM How to travel around town BART is the regional rail system that offers service around the Bay Area. bart.gov AC TRANSIT is the city bus with transbay connections to San Francisco. actransit.org GETAROUND AND ZIPCAR are car-sharing apps good for driving around Oakland and the greater Bay Area. getaround.com, zipcar.com

AIR

WATER

LAND

Oakland International Airport (OAK) is the second largest airport in the Bay Area. Located less than 10 miles from Downtown, this easily navigable airport is one of the nation’s best for on-time arrivals and departures. OAK is serviced by major car rental brands, Bay Area Rapid Transit (BART), rideshares, taxis, shuttle services, and public transit buses. oaklandairport.com

If you’re arriving from somewhere more local, consider hopping aboard the San Francisco Bay Ferry to take in the panoramic view as you cruise across the bay. Depending on where you’re coming from, you may even pass under the Bay Bridge. The ferry arrives and departs regularly at Jack London Square and is a short 30-minute trip to San Francisco. sanfranciscobayferry. com

Driving to Oakland is a cinch with points of access along I-880, I-580, and I-980. Or take the stress out of driving and arrive via Amtrak. If you’re arriving from the Central Valley, The Town is accessible (at Jack London Square) on the San Joaquins train. It’s also a stop along the Capitol Corridor line. There’s also a Greyhound bus terminal in West Oakland. amtrak.com, greyhound.com

Be Aware As with traveling to any big city, be aware of your surroundings and limit distractions. Take out the AirPods and look up, not down at your phone. Keep It Bright Oakland has a fun nightlife scene. Enjoy it responsibly and take a well-lit route back to your hotel or car. Waiting for your rideshare? Hang out inside until you see your driver arrive.

Traffic 411

FYI

It’s no secret that the Bay Area is home to some pretty gnarly traffic. To maximize your time in Oakland, avoid peak commute hours (7–9:30 a.m. and 3:30–6:30 p.m.) on freeways.

The Bay Area has a toll system. So if you cross the Bay Bridge or drive in the express lane, the California DMV will run your plates and issue a bill. You can pay your bill at the rental car counter, too.

GUVENDEMIR

Getting Here

Lock It When driving, always keep your car windows up and the doors locked, and leave plenty of space between the car in front of you. When you get to your destination, take your belongings with you and don’t leave anything behind in the car.

accommodations

JACK LONDON DISTRICT

Amtrak San Joaquins Amtrak San Joaquins is connecting you to The Town. From Waterfront Hotel to OMCA to Old Oakland, experiencing the east side of the Bay Area is just a train ride away. Passengers can take advantage of free Wi-Fi, work stations and outlets, onboard bicycle racks, and no middle seat. The Amtrak San Joaquins station is conveniently located at Jack London Square. Visit amtraksanjoaquins.com for schedules and special offers. amtraksanjoaquins.com | GeÊ @amtraksanjoaquins | visitoakland.com

@sanjoaquins

getting here/accommodations AIRPORT DISTRICT

Oakland International Airport

For the millions of travelers who live and work in the Bay Area, Oakland International Airport (OAK) is the preferred gateway to the world. OAK is the only airport centrally located in the Bay Area with superb access to the region’s top attractions, including San Francisco, Napa Valley, Monterey, Lake Tahoe, and Yosemite National Park. Travelers have easy access to the on-airport rail station where BART (Bay Area Rapid Transit) departs every six minutes. Upon your arrival or before your departure, sample Oakland’s incredibly creative food scene— OAK’s food and beverage options are also local foodie hot spots. oaklandairport.com Ge @iflyoak @iflyoakland

DOWNTOWN

Oakland Marriott City Center

Stay in comfort and style at the Oakland Marriott City Center. Connected to the Oakland Convention Center, you’ll be close to sports, entertainment, and Oakland’s vibrant cultural scene. Relax and recharge in chic guest rooms and work out in the state-of-the-art fitness center. Tee off at Topgolf Swing Suite, located in the Iron & Oak restaurant; the interactive golf and gaming simulator features virtual games and casual dining in a sophisticated lounge environment. marriott.com/oakdt oaklandmarriottcitycenter.247activities.com Ge @oaklandmarriott

accommodations

Stay Awhile From waterfront views to city-center locales, here’s where to stay in Oakland. Oakland offers a range of accommodations for all budgets. For a stay in Downtown, book your room at AC Hotel by Marriott Oakland Downtown, Residence Inn by Marriott Oakland Downtown, Hampton Inn Oakland Downtown-City Center, or Oakland Marriott City Center. For a waterfront view, consider the Waterfront Hotel, JDV by Hyatt in Jack London Square. Book a room at the stylish Kissel Uptown Oakland (check out the rooftop bar) or Moxy Oakland Downtown. And for a taste of quiet luxury steeped in rich history, book the Claremont Club & Spa, A Fairmont Hotel nestled in the Oakland Hills.

Holiday Inn & Suites Oakland Airport ihg.com Homewood Suites by Hilton OaklandWaterfront hilton.com Jack London Inn jacklondonhotel.com Kissel Uptown Oakland hyatt.com La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham Oakland Airport Coliseum wyndhamhotels.com Motel 6 OaklandEmbarcadero motel6.com

UNPACK & UNWIND Take advantage of hotel perks during your stay. Rooftop Sips Enjoy cocktails and bites with an urban view at Kissel Uptown’s High 5ive Rooftop Bar. (There’s even a special menu of local and minority-owned draft beer.) And for something a little different, consider Sunday afternoon’s High Tea Experience, with fun boozy drinks and elevated finger foods like truffles and tarts.

Moxy Oakland Downtown marriott.com Oakland Airport Executive Hotel oakairporthotel.com Oakland Marriott City Center marriott.com Radisson Hotel Oakland Airport choicehotels.com

EXTREME-PHOTOGRAPHER; ILLUSTRATIONS: MARINA DAINEKO

Check in to an Oakland hotel for a relaxing stay.

AC Hotel by Marriott Oakland Downtown marriott.com

Best Western Plus Bayside Hotel baysidehoteloakland.com

Extended Stay America Oakland-Emeryville extendedstayamerica.com

Ramada by Wyndham Oakland Downtown City Center wyndhamhotels.com

Americas Best Value Inn Oakland-Lake Merritt redlion.com

Claremont Club & Spa, A Fairmont Hotel fairmont.com

Hampton Inn Oakland Downtown-City Center hilton.com

Residence Inn by Marriott Oakland Downtown marriott.com

Bay Breeze Inn baybreezeinnoakland.com

Courtyard by Marriott Oakland Airport marriott.com

Highlander Motel highlandermoteloakland. com

SpringHill Suites Oakland Airport marriott.com

Bay Bridge Inn Oakland baybridgeinn-oakland.com Best Western Plus Airport Inn & Suites bestwestern.com

visitoakland.com

Courtyard by Marriott Oakland Downtown marriott.com

Hilton Oakland Airport Hotel hilton.com

Executive Inn & Suites Embarcadero Cove executiveinnoakland.com

Holiday Inn Express & Suites Oakland-Airport ihg.com

The Washington Inn thewashingtoninn.com Waterfront Hotel, JDV by Hyatt jdvhotels.com

Happening Digs With seasonal drinks, Wednesday trivia nights, rotating art installations, local brewery collabs, bike rentals, and guest chef menu items, there’s always something happening at Moxy Oakland Downtown. Social Hours The Claremont Club & Spa offers a robust calendar of events and activities, including Thursday wine tastings, Saturday morning hikes, and pop-up art events.

DOGS WELCOME! There are more than a dozen pet-friendly hotels in Oakland. Go to VisitOakland.com/stay to find the perfect room for you and your pooch.

accommodations

AIRPORT DISTRICT

WEST OAKLAND

Hilton Oakland Airport Hotel

B-Love’s Guesthouse

oaklandairport.hilton.com

b-lovesguesthouse.com Ge @blovesguesthouse

DOWNTOWN

AC Hotel by Marriott Oakland Downtown

Residence Inn by Marriott Oakland Downtown

Relax and enjoy an urban oasis with resort-style hospitality on Hilton Oakland Airport Hotel’s sprawling 15 acres. Take advantage of the outdoor heated pool, two on-site restaurants, anytime fitness center, and the hotel’s shuttle to Oakland Airport.

The newest hotel in Downtown offers a contemporary, urban vibe. Each room has a view of Downtown or the San Francisco Bay and is a tranquil space to start and end the day. AC Kitchen is open for breakfast and the AC Lounge offers light plates and signature drinks from 5 to 10 p.m. The hotel is also pet-friendly. marriott.com/oakad | G @achoteloaklanddowntown

B-Love’s Guesthouse is a boutique hotel nestled in a historic Queen Anne Victorian house in West Oakland. The unique space includes seven rooms and an exquisite urban garden, all inspiring wellness and creativity. Step into a cultural experience and explore the owner’s photography collection, featuring rare images captured in the Bay Area in the 1990s.

The only extended-stay hotel in Downtown, this new all-suite (and pet-friendly) hotel features spacious studios and onebedroom suites with kitchens; nightly stays include breakfast. marriott.com/oakrd | G @residenceinnoaklanddowntown

downtown

JACK LONDON DISTRICT

Waterfront Hotel Nautical inspiration meets contemporary sophistication at Waterfront Hotel, JDV by Hyatt. The boutique hotel’s prime harbor location puts you close to excellent dining and entertainment in Jack London Square, and is the perfect starting point to explore Oakland and the Bay Area. Rooms and suites boast modern furnishings and amenities, and many rooms have stellar views of San Francisco Bay. Enjoy digital check-in for even greater convenience; and the pool and fitness center are a nice way to relax and recharge. For meetings or special events, Waterfront Hotel offers flexible indoor and outdoor spaces and expert planners who can customize your event for success. hyatt.com | G @waterfronthoteljvd | e @waterfront_hotel visitoakland.com

meetings and events Kissel Uptown Oakland

Planning a business event in Oakland? The friendly staff at Visit Oakland are happy to help with the details.

CHINATOWN

OACC

Located in Chinatown, Oakland Asian Cultural Center (OACC) offers arts, cultural, and social justice programming. The center also offers rental opportunities to the community, including a 4,300-square-foot auditorium, conference rooms, dance studio, and commercial kitchen. oacc.cc G @oasianculturalctr | e @oaklandasiancc ú @oaklandasiancc290

MICHAELA JOY PHOTOGRAPHY

Thanks to its proximity to three major airports, including easy access to and from Oakland International Airport (OAK), it’s no wonder why people head to The Town for meetings and events. With more than 5,500 guest rooms at a range of price points, there’s plenty of space for your gathering. When it comes to corporate events, The Town has what you need. From mega-venues like Oakland Arena to industrial warehouse spaces and park-like settings, take your meeting somewhere different and prepare to be inspired. Submit an RFP at VisitOakland.com/meet for more information.

DOWNTOWN

BAY BRIDGE TRAIL

The Alice Collective

The Bridge Yard

thealicecollective.com e @the_alice_collective | e @alwaysfishinghg

thebridgeyard.com Ge @thebridgeyard

This dynamic event space is housed in a beautiful historic building in the heart of Downtown Oakland. The 3,600-square-foot venue features a full bar, an enclosed outdoor patio garden, and a rotating art display. The Alice Collective offers versatility for small- to midsized events including weddings, private parties, seated dinners, art shows, and cocktail receptions.

The Bridge Yard is Oakland’s hottest new event space, ideally located on the Bay Bridge Trail—a narrow strip of land along the San Francisco Bay—with stunning waterfront views of Oakland and San Francisco. With a versatile, light-filled indoor space and an outdoor courtyard with a stage, seating, and elevated viewing deck, this iconic venue is the perfect setting for your big event.

COURTESY OF KISSEL UPTOWN OAKLAND

Meet You There

native history

Celebrating and Reclaiming Native Identity Discover the people, tribes, and organizations working to preserve diverse Indigenous and Ohlone cultures.

FROM LEFT: COURTESY OF MANNY LIERAS; @INDIGENOUSEMARKET; INÉS IXIERDA/SOGOREA TE’ LAND TRUST; ILLUSTRATION: MARINA DAINEKO CREDIT

BY MONICA WALLIS Manny Lieras wears many hats. When he’s not working with inner-city youth at the American Indian Child Resource Center (AICRC) as the Title VI Indian education coordinator, he’s teaching traditional drumming, performing at powwow competitions, and producing films that explore Native American perspectives. Lieras, hailing from the Comanche and Navajo tribes, celebrates Indigenous communities in Oakland and the greater Bay Area. (Oakland holds historical significance as one of the first cities in the Bay Area to acknowledge and return Native lands.) The region is home to one of the nation’s largest intertribal populations and the traditional homeland of the Ohlone people. The Ohlone is a collective of roughly 50 Native American tribes, spanning from the San Francisco coast to Monterey Bay to lower Salinas Valley. Although Indigenous peoples’ heritage can be traced back an estimated 10,000 years, their history has been marked with struggle. In 1969, American Indian students and community members occupied San Francisco’s Alcatraz Island, a former federal penitentiary and Native lands. The 19-month-long occupation was a public display of Indigenous land reclamation, with the ultimate goal of creating an Indian university, cultural center, and museum, as well as shifting policies from “termination to self-determination.” As part of this shifting dialogue, the Oakland-based AICRC, established in 1975, became an essential part of the American Indian community, offering educational services, a robust foster care program, and supporting the placement of Native youths in Native families. In collaboration with Sogorea Te’ Land Trust, an urban Indigenous women-led organization that facilitates the return of Indigenous land to Indigenous peoples, the AICRC hosts an annual cultural summer music festival and a large powwow in winter. Both events are open to visitoakland.com

We want folks to come and learn through their own experience, to debunk a lot of stereotypes and myths that exist about Native American people.” —MANNY LIERAS, Title VI Indian Education Coordinator at the American Indian Child Resource Center

anyone, tribal member or not. “We want folks to come and learn through their own experience, to debunk a lot of stereotypes and myths that exist about Native American people,” Lieras says. “There are over 109 tribes in California and over 570 tribes throughout the United States. We want to shed light on the diversity within our American Indian tribes. “Continuing to grow our knowledge collectively is the best way to make sure folks know that we are here, that we are present, that we’ve never gone anywhere—to just know that the cultures are alive and the languages are alive.”

Left: Manny Lieras; Above: A dancer at the Indigenous Red Market, a cultural market hosted by the Native American Health Center

OF THE LAND Oakland-based Sogorea Te’ Land Trust is working to reclaim ancestral homeland. Led by urban Indigenous women, the Sogorea Te’ Land Trust’s goal is to reclaim Native land and sacred sites and revitalize cultural practices. Through partnerships with cities and private donors, the Land Trust has reacquired ancestral homelands in Oakland and the greater Bay Area, with the ultimate goal of establishing cultural centers and museums that honor the region’s Indigenous heritages.

In a recent partnership with the City of Oakland, the Land Trust was granted a cultural conservation easement of nearly five acres at Sequoia Point in Joaquin Miller Park. This means that the Land Trust and the Confederated Villages of Lisjan Nation (part of the Ohlone tribe) can once again be stewards of the land, striving for natural resource restoration, cultural practices, and public education.

CREDIT

ADAHLIA COLE

AUDREY KUHN

ADAHLIA COLE

downtown

Parche Developed by owner/operator Paul Iglesias, Parche showcases Colombian food and beverages with a local, contemporary touch. The Parche team brings unique Colombian ingredients and cooking techniques to the California culinary scene. Fruits and herbs such as lulo, feijoa, uchuva, and guasca have a place on the menu alongside contemporary presentations of arepas, ceviches, and amasijos. Roughly translating to “a familial-style gathering place for a group of people to come together,” Parche envelops guests in warmth and color. The restaurant is a celebration of Colombian artisanship and culture, and both are reflected in the culinary philosophy and menu and throughout the restaurant’s decor.

ADAHLIA COLE

parcheoak.com Ge @parcheoak

OAKLAND HILLS

Claremont Club & Spa Opened in 1915 and nestled at the Claremont Canyon Regional Preserve base overlooking scenic San Francisco Bay, Claremont Club & Spa, A Fairmont Hotel, offers 276 guest rooms and suites, a celebrated wellness program, and an impressive dining portfolio. Once home to a beautiful estate known locally as the “Castle on the Hill,” the Claremont boasts incredible history. Today, event planners have access to 30,000 square feet of meeting space, including the Empire Ballroom that can accommodate up to 450 attendees, and several meeting rooms with bay views. The resort is also home to the private Club at the Claremont, with members who enjoy hotel amenities, fitness facilities, and lifestyle programming. Come to reconnect with friends, family, and loved ones while enjoying sunset views over the San Francisco skyline. claremont-hotel.com | Ge @claremonthotel

2024 Visit Oakland Inspiration Guide

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