North Berkeley and Gourmet Ghetto
Posted on | February 11, 2010 | No Comments
Conveniently located about half a mile northwest of UC Berkeley, convenient to two BART stations, and a short hop from downtown, this tree-shaded neighborhood is lined with vintage homes. Home buyers can choose from grand Victorians, Neoclassical boxes, Craftsman bungalows, and charming stucco cottages and enjoy North Berkeley’s many nearby amenities.
Berkeley’s Gourmet Ghetto epitomizes an approach to life and to food in which the pursuit of quality is absolutely uncompromising. Geographically, it’s the stretch of Shattuck Avenue bordered by Rose on the north that extends toward Hearst Avenue on the south. It’s been known as the Gourmet Ghetto ever since the Cheese Board Collective and Peet’s Coffee opened in the late 60′s with Alice Waters opening the Chez Panisse Restaurant a few years later.
The restaurants and food shops are ever growing – with quality being key – making this area a mecca for foodies when they come to visit. “Newer” places include César, French Hotel Café, Cheese Board Pizza, Epicurious Garden, Gregoire, Masse’s Pastries, Poulet, Saul’s Deli and Liaison Bistro, to name a few. And over on University Avenue you’ll find more international eateries including standout Greek, Indian and Japanese takeout. The Monterey Market with its overflowing bins of exotic, and everyday, produce and Fat Apple’s, with its legendary pies, are both nearby as well. Trader Joe’s is scheduled to open at University and MLK sometime in 2010.
The area isn’t short of excellent retail as well. There are wonderful little shops up and down Shattuck, on Vine, and in Walnut Square—lingerie, hats, flowers, apparel, walking shoes, antiques and gifts, fine art, jewelry, beads, etc. etc. etc.. There’s an annual street faire, The Spice of Life Festival, which happens every year in late October. Berkeley’s upscale 4th Street is a popular weekend destination.
Did we mention that you are surrounded by arts, entertainment and recreation in this wonderful neighborhood? Berkeley has been developing its Arts District downtown anchored by The Berkeley Rep, The Aurora Theater, and Freight and Salvage on Addison Street. Totland Park at Virginia and McGee has, since 1949 been “the” spot to bring children to play, picnic and socialize. UC Berkeley, King Middle School and Berkeley High are all nearby. The North Berkeley Senior Center at Hearst and MLK has a diverse program and hosts community events and meetings. Even your dog has its own park in the Ohlone Greenway.
Neighbors would tell you they love the convenience and amenities as well as the eclectic combination of students and families who call their neighborhood home.
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