Welcome to Elmwood
Elmwood is one of Berkeley’s most charming and beloved neighborhoods, known for its friendly, village-like atmosphere and beautifully preserved early 20th-century architecture. Tree-lined streets showcase elegant Craftsman homes, storybook bungalows, and classic brown-shingle houses, creating a timeless, inviting feel. Residents love the neighborhood’s walkability and the strong sense of community that makes Elmwood feel both intimate and vibrant.
At the heart of the neighborhood lies the small but lively Elmwood commercial district along College Avenue. This stretch is dotted with independent bookstores, artisan shops, local cafés, and a variety of restaurants ranging from casual spots to fine dining. The historic Elmwood Theater, a favorite local landmark, offers an old-school moviegoing experience that adds to the neighborhood’s charm. Whether you’re grabbing a morning pastry, browsing boutiques, or catching a film, Elmwood’s small-town vibe makes daily errands a pleasure.
Nature lovers appreciate Elmwood’s close proximity to the expansive trails of Claremont Canyon and nearby parks like Willard Park and the UC Berkeley campus grounds. The area encourages a healthy, active lifestyle with easy access to scenic hikes and peaceful green spaces, all while remaining close to the heart of Berkeley’s cultural and academic life.
Elmwood also offers excellent connectivity to other parts of Berkeley and the greater Bay Area, with convenient public transit and quick access to major roads. The neighborhood’s combination of architectural charm, thriving local businesses, and peaceful residential streets makes it ideal for those seeking a friendly, sophisticated, and walkable community that feels distinctly Berkeley.
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- Baker & Commons – An irresistible Elmwood café—housed in a charming 1921 soda-fountain corner—which relies on locally roasted coffee, in-house baked biscuits, scones, and hearty breakfast–lunch fare for discerning Berkeleyites. People adore it for its warm, community-first vibe: long lines of loyal regulars, friendly staff, and a relaxed indoor-outdoor space perfect for casual meetups or writing power sessions.
- Five Little Monkeys (toys) – Berkeley’s warm and whimsical neighborhood toy wonderland, packed with carefully curated, high‑quality toys that spark creativity and playfulness. Families and locals appreciate its hands‑on, personal service—complete with free gift‑wrapping—and the community‑centered vibe that makes toy shopping feel like a joyful, family affair.
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Nabolom Bakery – A beloved Elmwood gem since 1976—baking up legendary cinnamon twists, rich fruit danishes, flaky croissants, and hearty slices of veggie pizza by the slice. People adore its warm, community-spirit vibe and commitment to real, high‑quality ingredients, making every visit feel like a cozy neighborhood ritual.
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Star Grocery – A century‑old, family‑owned Claremont neighborhood market at 3068 Claremont Ave, where hand‑written bulletins, vintage cash registers, and reputation‑built generosity (like extending credit during the Depression) mingle with a curated selection of French wine, organic staples, butcher‑cut meats, and gourmet snacks. Locals love it for its warm, small‑town charm wrapped in modern specialty offerings, expert counter staff, and the communal vibe that’s made it the “heartbeat of the neighborhood” for generations.
- Rialto Cinemas – Beloved independently‑owned neighborhood movie palace—originally opened in 1919, reborn in 2007, and now a vibrant hub for eclectic first-run films, National Theatre Live productions, and community‑oriented events. People love its charming vintage ambiance, cozy three‑screen setup, and upgraded concession menu featuring wine, beer, and gourmet snacks—all wrapped in that “third‑place” feeling where cinephiles and neighbors share the magic of the big screen.
- Monkey Island- A hidden half-acre grassy oasis tucked along Claremont Boulevard in Berkeley, offering winding paths, shady lawns, and scenic views that make it a favorite neighborhood escape. Locals love its peaceful, dog‑friendly vibe and the way it transforms into a community backyard—perfect for impromptu picnics, relaxation, and spotting neighborhood wildlife just off the beaten path.