Badass Blocks: College Avenue Between Keith and Milvia Streets

Badass Blocks: College Avenue Between Keith and Milvia Streets

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There are certain blocks in this city that seem like mini-universes. Each week, we'll highlight a stretch of pavement where you could spend an entire day and night. This time around, we travel to Oakland to highlight a stretch of College Avenue in Rockridge.


Where to get your gourmet on: Order the French fries. Seriously, do it. Whether you are trying to impress a date or a handful of friends, Á Côté does not disappoint. With tons of delicious small-plates to share, a knockout wine selection and a cozy back patio you won’t want to get up from the table, ever.

Where to mix vintage with pleasure: Pretty Penny is a must for the fashion obsessed. With a blend of vintage, contemporary and local pieces, there is something cool and original for everyone. Owner Sarah Dunbar is a Berkeley original, but brings a bit of New York edge to the store from her time spent in Williamsburg, Brooklyn. This store is heavy on standout pieces, but is luckily light on the wallet.

Where to indulge your chocolate fix: A mix of the best chocolate you can eat or drink, Bittersweet Café is a stop for chocoholics and normal folks alike. Try the European style Bittersweet hot chocolate, or if you are feeling adventurous, try the Spicy. The café also offers a handful of pastries and house-made treats you will not be able to keep your hands off of. If you are ready to truly indulge, sit down and nosh on the Chocolate Pots de Créme, a unstoppably rich and decadent treat.

Where to accessorize your dream home: From drool-worthy cookbooks to chic scented candles, to bath towels you could curl up and nap on, Maison d’Etre is a home enthusiast’s dream. With a selection of beautiful art and furniture not to mention accessories with a hip and artsy French vibe, this spot is swoon-worthy.

Where to be especially literate: Pegasus has been a Berkeley fixture since 1970, serving up new and used books, as well as a spectacular selection of magazines and literary magazines. Check out the staff picks if you are looking for a new read and don’t be afraid to stop in to one of their literary events–you might just meet a famous author.

Where to grab great Mexican for cheap: While it may not be the hip new joint on the block, there is a reason locals keep coming back to Cactus Taqueria; the food is cheap, fresh and delicious. This family-friendly restaurant focuses on sustainable, all-natural ingredients and makes everything, from their chicken mole verde to their crispy chips, from scratch. All star standouts include the crispy shrimp tacos with their spicy salsa de arbol and their fresh fish taco with chopped cabbage, avocado, black beans, cilantro rice and Mexican crema.

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