Beautiful Berkeley Boutiques
I was having lunch with a good friend of mine recently and during our catch-up she mentioned that she really likes the restaurants that I’ve showcased as a part of Neighborhood Secrets. She asked how much work I do in preparation for my columns given that all of the places I’ve recommended tend to be hits for her. So I’ll start the first part of this column by giving some simple advice on how to find the best restaurants and shops.
Public areas are also fun to find!
San Francisco has many different public areas that are on top of buildings for those who want to get a view.
As always, do your research before you even plan a visit. I start by researching the neighborhood I want to explore and ask myself, if I had 4-5 hours to walk around and explore, which businesses seem the most interesting? What kind of food would I love to have? Do I need any decor for my home? Once I have a good idea of what I want, I look online for information about the area, including its history, demographics, and local attractions. I also take a stroll around the neighborhood, keeping my eyes peeled for boutique shops.
As a realtor, I always ask other realtors about a city I want to explore. I also ask locals when I host an open house! It should be no secret to know that locals often have insider knowledge about the area and can point you in the direction of hidden gems that you might otherwise miss. Lastly, I try to keep up with the local events in many cities. The reason is that many neighborhoods throughout the Bay Area host events throughout the year, such as art walks, street fairs, and farmer's markets. These events often feature local vendors, including boutique shops, and can be a great way to discover new boutiques and meet local shop owners.
Using this methodology for exploration is how I uncovered the following three Berkeley Boutiques that I think are unique to the Bay Area. Let me know what you think!
Five Little Monkeys
Right off the bat, the name “Five Little Monkeys” is cute, catchy, and it reflects the store's focus on children. The store offers a broad range of products, including toys, books, clothes, and other accessories that are both fun and educational. From puzzles to board games, there are plenty of activities to keep children engaged and entertained. The store is known for its friendly and knowledgeable staff, who are always available to help customers find what they're looking for. I love how welcoming and accommodating the staff are. It is definitely a pleasant shopping experience for parents and children alike.
Address: 1810 Fourth St, Berkeley, CA 94710
Phone: (510) 833-3958
Bay-Made
Bay-Made is a boutique shop that specializes in locally-made products, including clothing, accessories, home goods, and art. The store features products from over 150 local artisans, making it a great place to find unique and one-of-a-kind gifts. The store has a relaxed and welcoming atmosphere, and the staff is friendly and knowledgeable about the products they sell. In addition to the great selection of products, the store also hosts events and workshops, making it a great place to learn about local art and craft. Overall, Bay-Made is a must-visit boutique shop for anyone who loves to support local artists and artisans.
Address: 3295 Lakeshore Ave, Oakland, CA 94610
Phone: (510) 520-4600
