At-a-Glance:

Beating in the heart of Cal Berkeley’s South Campus region is the quaint neighborhood that locals call “The Elmwood.” The enclave’s history parallels that of many communities in the Bay Area that sprung up following the San Francisco earthquake of 1906, when rebuilding efforts gave life to the streetcar suburb as part of the 1900s housing boom.

Stretching along College and Ashby Avenues, you’ll find many Elmwood hotspots:

• Residents and visitors alike find it hard to resist the handmade ice cream, sorbets, candies, and cookies freshly served at Ici (a line can be seen forming out its doors even in the dead of winter).
• Whether you’re in the mood for an intimate dining atmosphere or just some outstanding Italian cuisine, Trattoria La Siciliana is the local go-to destination.
• Other food favorites include Espresso Roma Cafe, Nabolom Bakery, Beanery, and Dream Fluff Donuts.
• Nostalgic and trendy, the local boutique and gift shopping is always fun in Elmwood. Pop into Lululemon Athletica, Sweet Dreams Toy Store, or Mrs. Dalloways, for unique finds.

Rich with artistic inspiration, Elmwood is also the resident nesting spot of celebrated author, Michael Chabon and fellow writer wife, Ayelet Waldman. Chabon was awarded the Pulitzer Prize for Fiction in 2001 and frequently references Elmwood's beautiful characteristics in his work.

Architecturally interesting with its abundance of brown-shingled craftsman houses and tree-lined streets, Elmwood’s quaint, convenient, and family-friendly lifestyle make it an irresistible East Bay community.