Westbrae

Westbrae is the neighborhood just east of San Pablo that straddles Hopkins Street on the north and south. Gilman and Sante Fe form a triangle at its northern end and Cedar Rose Park is at its southern end—it is a big park but rather unremarkable by virtually any standard.

One of the attractions that lures gourmands to this area of Berkeley is Lalimes, a top class Mediterranean Style restaurant. There is also a good Vietnamese place in the area, Mama Lan’s. The Westbrae Deli also makes for a good stop if you are just looking for a simple sandwich.

A handful of flower shops and bakeries also make their home here, so much of what you need is already in the neighborhood—little need to bike into downtown if you are a time pressed student.

The neighborhood is largely made up of Cal grad students and young professors. Others come here because of the peace and the liberal leaning of the area which create an enticing picture for potential residents. The homes are small and old here as throughout much of Berkeley, but their squat facades are well kept and rents remain relatively low.