Temescal

Temescal began as its own little village, eventually choosing to incorporate with Oakland and is now one of the city's oldest neighborhoods. Construction on Highway 24 caused some unsettling but the refreshed community is enjoying a residential and business revival.

A local art cooperative and a public pool offer an array of classes and workshops. An annual street fair displays Temescal's cultural variety and gives those new to the area a chance to meet neighborhood merchants and business owners. Temescal's population can be found frequenting local staples such as Genova Deli, a real-deal Italian deli, and Bakesale Betty, famous for its fried chicken sandwich and addicting cookies. Recently gaining the nickname "Oakland's Gourmet Ghetto," Temescal's restaurant scene includes Burmese, Moroccan, Spanish and Mexican to name but a few.

The Craftsman bungalows and early 20th century architecture of Temescal real estate was just one of the many reasons This Old House magazine picked Temescal as one of their 51 best old-house neighborhoods. With its active local business and friendly locale, this is one area not to be overlooked.