Dimond District

With German roots, the Dimond District has morphed into an eclectic neighborhood that perfectly reflects Oakland itself.

Nestled at the base of the Oakland Hills, the Dimond District is an extension of Fruitvale — but with German vibes. In the early 1900s, this neighborhood was settled by German immigrants and referred to as “Little Germany.” Since then, the area, like most of Oakland, has transformed and was adopted by the Latin community. Today you’ll find taquerias and murals intertwined with urban green spaces and parks.

Stop into natural grocer Farmer Joe’s Marketplace or local fave La Farine French Bakery to pick up provisions before heading to Dimond Park. Camp out on the grass or grab a picnic table for your meal. After that, let the kiddos burn some energy at the playground or hike along Sausal Creek on the Dimond Canyon Trail for wildlife spotting.

If wandering around town is more your style, go mural hunting in the Dimond. Find Dimond’s Hidden Jewels on Farmer Joe’s wall, I Love Dimond on the PG&E Boston substation, and Oakland Treehouse and Bird on a Branch at MacArthur and Rhoda streets. Top off your time here with a horchata-flavored Italian water ice or frozen custard at Flavor Brigade

Prost!

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

Glenview

Get to know Dimond’s cute neighbor.

It’s bungalows galore in Glenview. This small residential neighborhood leads up to the lower Oakland Hills and makes Rockridge seem quiet. To mingle with the locals, head to Blackberry Bistro for buttery vanilla-orange 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 sweet or savory empanadas, alongside a cold brew, at Paulista Brazilian Kitchen & Taproom

East Oakland

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

Since 2014, Black Cultural Zone Collaborative Partners has worked with local groups to create opportunities, projects, and events aimed at supporting and empowering East Oakland residents. Most notably, the organization hosts regular gatherings at Liberation Park including Fo’Show Fridays (food event), Akoma Market (artisan market), and roller skating at Umoja Outdoor Roller Rink

Get your skating fix in East Oakland.

Hike

Looking for more trail adventures?

Turn to p. 30

Eats

For the best Anthony Bourdainapproved pupusas in town, go to Tamales Mi Lupita

From big name celebrity ventures to the small shop on the corner, Oakland has a style that’s unlike any other city. Here, a mighty collective of small businesses and residents fully embrace shopping small and supporting local. Check out a few of these spots for something that’s as unique as Oakland.

You both grew up out of state. When did you come to Oakland?