Shopping Road Trip: Oakland, CA

There are a whole lot of reasons why I love Oakland. Sure, it's the perpetual underdog of the West Coast, but it's also a city that is constantly growing, changing, and forging its own cultural landscape. From the port cranes that trace its skyline (and no George, we don't believe you when you say that AT-ATs weren't inspired by these metal monsters) to the tiny art galleries that patchwork downtown blocks, Oakland is a place that thrives on artistic independence. So it's no wonder that Oakland boasts some of the finest eclectic boutiques around:

[$22, The Girl and Rhino]

The first thing you need while toodling around Oakland is your very own piece of Oakland pride: a port crane thinking of an AT-AT t-shirt from none other than local screenprinters The Girl and Rhino. Got it? Good. Now you're ready to rock. 

And what better place to rock out than North Oakland's 1-2-3-4 Go! Records? Housed in storefront that can't be more than 300 square feet, this gem of a music store is packed with everything an indie aficionado could desire. An original pressing of Jawbreaker's 24 Hour Revenge Therapy? Check. A pristine copy of NoMeansNo's first EP? You bet. Beyond rarities, the juxtaposition of classic punk, '80s metal, and outlaw country side by side on the shelves is enough to make even the most jaded rocker crack a smile.    

Just up the road is Pretty Penny, a precious little boutique that carries vintage and contemporary clothing to satisfy just about everyone's inner fashionista. The decor is western ranch-house meets '60s parlor, complete with faux deer head and leather lounge sofas:

Tucked into the racks are one-of-a-kind finds from local designers and fashion houses alike, as well as handmade accessories and a substantial collection of classic cowboy boots.

These brooches made from salvaged goodies caught my eye, as well as handmade LP handbags, a collection of quirky metal pendants, and a whole rack of vintage cocktail dresses. Delicious! Also, don't miss the art gallery upstairs, which regularly features works from local artists. 

Across the street, you'll find another North Oakland boutique paradise: Atomic Garden. Founded on the concept of uniting artistry and sustainability in home decor, Atomic Garden is both an aesthetic oasis and style-savvy resource.

I absolutely love these coasters and cutting boards made from fallen trees, not to mention the mix-n-match sets of reclaimed and reglazed dinnerware. As if that weren't enough, Atomic Garden also carries a hefty selection of locally letterpressed notes and cards.  

With paper on the brain, it's time to head over to Issues: the eclectic magazine shop that brings new meaning to the concept of a newsstand. Step down into its cozy environs, and you'll find yourself in a wall-to-wall world of all things bound: 

Whether you're cat person or gearhead, DIY diva or skater punk, Issues has got your periodical. In addition, they carry an astonishing range of indie literary journals, local bookmakers' goods, and small press offerings. 

If all that shopping made you hungry, Oakland has more than a few foodie options. And while I can never say no to Everett and Jones, O My Dawg, Coach Sushi (who could pass up bottomless sake for $3?), or the famously tasty dim sum in Oakland's Chinatown, one of my all-time favorites is Bakesale Betty.

The Bakesale Betty fried chicken sandwich is simple: spicy coleslaw, perfectly fried chicken, and a homemade bun. It's also one of the tastiest sandwiches this side of the bay. Combine that with a delectable variety of scones, cookies, pies, and pastries, and it's no wonder that Bakesale Betty was written up in Bon Appetit's Best of Bakeshops.

Can't get enough Oakland? Visit Oaklandish and stock up on gear inspired by Oakland's namesake, the oak tree. In fact, I'll leave you to ponder your own Oakland shopping adventure with a few words from the Oaklandish site: "The true purpose here is to creatively promote our enduring love for original Oakland charm... When you rock the roots, you evoke all the hidden history & rebel spirit of The Town, in its many incarnations."

Have fun!

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