Where to Go? What to Eat? in Berkeley, CA with Palm+Perkins

This week, we hear from Julia and Genna from Palm+Perkins, a shop that partners with makers in the US and internationally to curate ethical, purposeful, and quality home and lifestyle goods in the Elmwood District of Berkeley, CA.

What do you love most about your area and how long have you been located there?

“We have been in the Elmwood District of Berkeley since April 2018 and we absolutely love it! What I love most about it is the sense of community – We have an amazing community of local merchants and customers who have made us feel welcomed and supported since the day we opened.”

Is your area known for anything in particular?

“Elmwood is known for its independently-owned shops and restaurants. There are some businesses that have been here for up to 40 years! There are also some really amazing food and restaurants here.”

Describe your favorite sights and activities in your area:

“Having grown up in the Bay Area, being close to nature and being able to escape for a peaceful hike has always been one of my favorite things to do. Here in Elmwood, we are right below the Berkeley and Oakland hills where there is the Claremont Canyon Regional Reserve and Tilden Park with plenty of great trails and incredible views of the Bay Area.

We are also very close to the Greek Theater, which is my favorite concert venue in the Bay Area. It’s a beautiful, open amphitheater where you can watch the stars while listening to great music. I highly recommend it, especially on a warm summer evening.

Another great activity is the bi-annual Elmwood Wine Walk, in which people get to stroll from one shop/restaurant to the next tasting different wines and snacks, while getting to know the different shops Elmwood has to offer. It’s like a big neighborhood block party!”

Describe your favorite places for food/drinks in your area:

Summer Kitchenis a neighborhood favorite and definitely our favorite, by far. I don’t think you could get anything bad there, but I highly recommend their salads, sandwiches and pizzas. And trying their crispy chicken is a MUST. It’s something they’re known for, but I will warn you – it is addictive. During the long work days of the Holiday season, Julia and I like to treat ourselves to their mushroom, burrata and truffle pizza. It’s mind-blowing.

We are also big fans of Timeless Coffee here in Elmwood. They have great coffee that helps us get through those long winter days, and their pastries and noshes are awesome. They make them all in-house and you can taste the great quality. It’s a great place to grab coffee with a friend, or for when you’re on the go.

Palm Açai Cafehas really delicious açai bowls the best avocado toast I’ve ever had.

In The Wood is a local gastropub that has a great atmosphere for dinner with friends and family. My favorite is the burger!