Frances Wong, public relations and communications manager for Visit Oakland, has worked in the city for more than nine years and called it home for two. A serious explorer when it comes to Oakland’s burgeoning food scene and beyond, Wong shared a few pro tips for a delicious day in the city.
Hottest new neighborhood:
Uptown has great bars and restaurants to try — consider Duende and Era Art Bar — plus the Fox Theater and Paramount Theatre, so there’s good music playing on any given night. Uptown also has a concentrated amount of art galleries and boutique shops.
A tourist activity that is actually worth the hype:
The interactive Oakland Museum of California is a top choice for its California art, history and culture. It’s a great time for adults or kids. On Friday nights, food trucks, music and dancing onsite make for a real Oakland party.
Favorite place to eat:
Bakesale Betty’s in the Temescal neighborhood has the best fried-chicken sandwich and slaw around. There’s no indoor seating, so diners eat off ironing boards set up on the sidewalk.
Best place to stay:
Waterfront Hotel in Jack London Square. As the name suggests, it overlooks the harbor and is close to a plethora of Oakland diversions, from bocce ball at beer garden Plank to kayaking excursions with California Canoe & Kayak.
Favorite hidden gem:
Our outdoor spaces, which include more than 1,000 miles of trails, the beautiful Lake Merritt, Redwood Regional Park and Sibley Volcanic Preserve.
On the city's changing reputation:
The art and music scenes have always been strong, but more people are finding a new appreciation for our culture and authentic way of life. Oakland doesn’t follow trends. We are who are, and the rest of the world is now paying attention.
The Details
Visit Oaklandwww.visitoakland.org
