El Cerrito

 

Situated a stone’s throw from the San Francisco Bay and just a few miles from the heart of Oakland, residents of El Cerrito enjoy great public transportation options, close proximity to everything wonderful about the Bay Area, and generously sized homes positioned on lots larger than what might normally be found in Oakland, for fair prices.

 

This quaint community was founded by those fleeing the San Francisco Earthquake of 1906, with El Cerrito officially being established as a formal town in 1917. Once bare farmland, the eastward hills have become lush protected parklands, the slopes have been transformed into luxurious golf courses, and homes positioned upon these hillsides enjoy tranquil views of Oakland, San Francisco, and the entirety of the bay.

 

 

El Cerrito locals enjoy friendly neighbors, a wonderful location within the Bay Area, close proximity to the water and its wonderful sites, and a better cost of living than some other neighborhoods in the region. A comfortable climate makes hikes through the eastern Tilden Nature Area a frequent way to enjoy weekends, along with the many smaller parks conveniently located within the heart of the community. El Cerrito boasts a colorful cultural scene, great views enjoyed from the eastern portion of the town’s hilltops, and an abundance of opportunities to appreciate the great outdoors, making it one pretty great place to grow and thrive in the Bay Area.

 

This cozy community is home to some of the bay’s hidden gems and great places to spend time with family and friends. Bakeries, convenient markets, well-known favorites, and international flair can all be found mere minutes from home.

 

The El Cerrito Plaza is a convenient destination to cross errands off of your to-do list, enjoy lunch, grab a latte, or indulge in a little retail therapy. Some of the nationally recognized businesses found here include Starbucks, Trader Joe’s, Barnes & Noble, and CVS, to name a few.

 

Nearby, FatApple’s Restaurant & Bakery is a go-to among locals for homemade sweets and comforting classics like apple pie, fried chicken sandwiches, waffle breakfasts, almond danishes, and more. Visitors can enjoy pie by the slice, get a whole one to take home, or choose something more savory from a lengthy takeout menu.

 

El Mono is one of El Cerrito’s best-rated eateries, specializing in authentic and colorful Peruvian cuisine. Peruvian-style paella, ceviche, seafood stews, and juicy chicken seasoned with an incredible collection of spices are devoured in a colorful setting featuring authentic art. Dinner at El Mono is best paired with one of their colorful cocktails, putting together all the pieces for one festive night out on the town.

 

El Cerrito is one of the best communities in the Bay Area to enjoy time in the great outdoors, thanks to its many parks and close proximity to vast nature preserves. Arlington Park & Clubhouse is one of the community’s larger options, at just over five acres. Arlington Park boasts barbecue and picnic facilities, a playground, tennis courts, creekside access, and other great outdoor amenities. El Cerrito is also home to the Berkeley Country Club, a storied club with a history stretching back over a century. After a recent $2 million renovation, members enjoy elevated dining experiences, a new fitness center, clubhouse, fully amenitized locker rooms, and a vibrant social calendar. The El Cerrito Plaza Farmers’ Market is a twice-weekly occurrence looked forward to by all. On Tuesdays and Saturdays, locals gather to shop for fresh produce, handcrafted accessories, decor, pastries, flowers, and locally roasted coffee, making everyday occasions at home all that more special.

 

El Cerrito children attend some of the city’s most outstanding schools. Just one example is found at: