Crocker Highlands, one of Oakland’s most historic neighborhoods, is desirable not only because of the period architecture, quaint tree-lined streets and friendly neighbors, but for its proximity to an abundance of conveniences. Eating out is one of Oakland’s favorite past times and lucky for us, Crocker Highlands offers a myriad of restaurants nearby. In this two-part series, we’ll highlight some of the neighborhood’s most popular spots to dine.
First up, Park Boulevard! Park borders the south end of Crocker Highlands and is dotted with restaurants, salons, grocery stores and other every day conveniences. Most of the businesses are small, local and owner operated. Plan on seeing the same faces week after week and hopefully meeting some of your amazing neighbors. Happy noshing!
Paulista Brazilian Kitchen and Taproom
4239 Park Blvd, Oakland, CA 94602
paulista510.com
(510) 866-2133
Founders Alex Yamamoto and Jesse Madway have created a hot spot in just the eight months that they’ve been open. The two met in 2011 as parents of kindergarteners at the nearby elementary school and became fast friends. Yamamoto lives in the neighborhood (by way of Brazil!) and has grown up creating and eating his way through the many traditional dishes of the country. Madway, an Oakland native is a self proclaimed beer geek and celebrated home brewer who offers his vast knowledge of craft beer to the ever revolving menu, focusing on local, small batch brews and wine. They offer authentic Brazilian food with a casual and welcoming and family-friendly atmosphere. Enjoy their happy hour and its list of choice craft beers. Open from 7am to 10pm, you can make it an all day adventure at Paulista.
Marzano Restaurant and Bar
4214 Park Blvd, Oakland, CA 94602
marzanorestaurant.com
(510) 479-1448
Marzano is a cozy, chic restaurant on the corner of Park Boulevard and Glenfield, offering fine Italian food, great mixed drinks and a delicious dessert menu including the ever popular soft serve. The perfect place for date night or a fun dinner with the family—enjoy the cozy interior featuring plush leather benches and a fireplace or eat al fresco at one of the many bistro tables on a pleasant Oakland evening. We recommend reservations, as the lines can get long at this dinner-only spot. They have happy hour (literally, an hour) every day but Friday and 20% wine bottles on Wednesday. Check out their special events calendar and book it out for your private event.
Bellanico
4238 Park Blvd, Oakland, CA 94602
bellanico.net
(510) 336-1180
Bellanico is a great place for lunch, dinner and weekend brunch. You may have experienced Chris Shepherd and Elizabeth Frumusa’s restaurant in San Francisco, Aperto in Potrero Hill. They bring the same focus on amazing service, wine selection and impeccable Italian cuisine, not to mention their fresh baked bread, rare selection of cheeses, and delectable desserts. Stop in for a flight of wines and a dinner you deserve—you’ll taste the time and detail that goes into every bite.
Park Burger
4218 Park Blvd, Oakland, CA 94602
parkburgeroakland.com
(510) 479-1402
Park Burger is another proprietor who lives right here in the neighborhood. As their website states, they use “sustainably produced and locally sourced ingredients,” making them a truly integrated partner with the community. And that’s not to mention some of the best comfort fare in the East Bay featuring not only burgers (from various sources of protein) but also hot dogs, shakes, chili cheese fries and salads! The burgers are organic, bread is cooked daily by Baker’s of Paris and they offer several Oakland based beers. They’re open every day from 11am to 9pm and offer take out, eat-in or delivery via Caviar or Doordash.
Sushi Park
4209 Park Blvd, Oakland, CA 94602
(510) 336-2388
Amazing sushi right here on Park Boulevard. When it comes to good sushi, it’s all about execution. Thankfully Sushi Park nails it. A neighborhood staple for nearly a decade, Sushi Park is a unique sushi experience offering “designer” rolls you can build yourself! Ever wondered if the dragon roll would be better with Yellowfin? Or a Philly roll with avocado and lemon? Create your own roll or enjoy any one of the of the many menu options. Did we mention the service? Enjoy a pleasant evening with friendly and attentive wait staff. We have a feeling that once you stop by Sushi Park, you’ll be a regular.
