East Bay tastemakers are flocking to Oakland's Telegraph Avenue, spawning a unique, vibrant neighborhood that's lately become a haven for Alice Waters disciples and foodies in general. Home to some of Oakland's oldest businesses, the Temescal area feels both established and fresh, thanks to the ever-changing influences of its diverse population. Come for the global cuisine ― from Moroccan to Korean to eclectic contemporary ― and stick around to explore a few one-of-a-kind retail shops.
Temescal Cafe.
What: A friendly, funky neighborhood spot to sip a latte
or a glass of wine while you watch the world go by.
WHEN: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner daily.
HOW MUCH: $.
Where: 4920 Telegraph Ave.; 510/595-4102.
Porch Light Antiques.
What: Vintage and new treasures, furniture, and kitchen
accessories.
WHEN: 11-6 Tue-Sat, 12-6 Sun.
Where: 5026 Telegraph Ave.; 510/597-0588.
Article Pract.
What: This knitting store is so cool, you might be
inspired to sign up for a class.
WHEN: Open Tue-Sun.
HOW MUCH: Classes from $25.
Where: 5010 Telegraph Ave.;
www.articlepract.com or
510/595-7875.
Boontling Gallery.
What: A community gallery dedicated to fledgling and
established artists, many of them local.
When: 12-5 Sat-Sun, Mon-Fri by appointment (call
707/980-1060).
Where: 4224 Telegraph Ave.
Bakesale Betty.
What: The dream of a former Chez Panisse cook, this
corner shop offers big homey sweets, plus some cafe-style lunch
items.
WHEN: 7-4 Mon-Sat, 7-2 Sun.
Where: 5098 Telegraph Ave.; 510/985-1213.
Doña Tomás.
What: Upscale Mexican with California sensibilities.
Check out the swanky bar area.
WHEN: Dinner Tue-Sat.
How Much: $$.
Where: 5004 Telegraph Ave.; 510/450-0522.
Pizzaiolo.
What: Ethereally thin, crispy wood-fired pizza at a
destination restaurant opened by a Chez Panisse alum.
WHEN: Dinner Tue-Sat.
How Much: $$.
Where: 5008 Telegraph Ave.; 510/652-4888.
Lanesplitter Pizza & Pub.
What: Excellent New York-style pies in a low-key
setting.
WHEN: Lunch and dinner daily.
How Much: $$.
Where: 4799 Telegraph Ave.; 510/653-5350.
INFO: Telegraph Ave. runs from Oakland to Berkeley; the Temescal shopping area is between 42nd and 51st Streets.
