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July 18.2025
3 Minutes Read

Explore Oakland's Unique Plant Shops for Rare Finds

Plant shop in Oakland with a variety of potted plants.

Discover Oakland’s Green Treasures: The Best Plant Shops

Bringing houseplants into your home does more than liven up your space; they provide a daily dose of calm, connection, and an opportunity to nurture life. As the trend of 'plant parenthood' continues to grow, more Oakland residents are embracing greenery as a form of self-care and sustainable living. Luckily, Oakland boasts a vibrant array of locally owned plant shops that welcome your green-thumbed adventures!

Cultivating Community with Local Plant Shops

When you stroll through the streets of Oakland, you’ll discover a community that thrives on local businesses, and the world of plant shops is no exception. These establishments not only offer plants but also create a space for connection among plant lovers. From friendly advice to communal events—each shop brings something unique to the table.

Black Girls Green House: A Whimsical Retreat

One of the standout gems of Oakland is Black Girls Greenhouse, which opened in West Oakland in 2020. This shop celebrates not only plants but the spirit of creativity, joy, and community among its visitors. According to co-founder Kalkidan Gebreyohannes, “How we keep our space is about a feeling, and evoking that feeling with people has been the most rewarding thing for us.” The shop is a dreamland filled with lush plants, a welcoming coffee station, and locally made goods that reflect the vibrant culture of Oakland.

Crimson Horticultural Rarities: A World of Wonders

If you’re on a quest for rare and unusual botanicals, look no further than Crimson Horticultural Rarities. Nestled on Piedmont Avenue, this boutique offers a fascinating selection of unique horticultural specimens, handmade pottery, and botanical-inspired decor. Beyond its intriguing inventory, the shop also offers floral design services for weddings and events, creating intimate settings with nature’s beauty. Combine your visit with a stop at a local café like Timeless for a vegan pastry and coffee to elevate your experience!

Local Hubs of Knowledge and Support

Visiting these local plant shops offers more than just greenery; it’s about the knowledge shared among staff and customers. Employees at these shops are often passionate plant enthusiasts themselves, eager to guide you in the selection of the perfect plant for your home and lifestyle. Additionally, they provide tips on plant care, enhancing your skills as a plant parent!

Why Choose Local? Deepening Community Connections

Engaging with local plant shops is essential not just for your inner gardener but for strengthening the overall community. By supporting these businesses, you contribute to neighborhood vitality and foster connections within your community. Each purchase you make is an investment not only in your home but in the local economy and in the stories each shop holds.

So whether you’re seeking a rare botanical to complete your collection, looking to connect with fellow plant lovers, or wanting to imbibe in a cozy atmosphere filled with life, Oakland’s plant shops welcome you with open arms. Dive into this green journey, and see how your life can flourish in unexpected ways!

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09.30.2025

Discover the Vibrant Culture at Oakland Style Week 2025

Update Oakland Style 2025: A Vibrant Celebration Awaits As the calendar flips to October, Oakland is abuzz with excitement for the highly anticipated Oakland Style Week, happening from October 8-12, 2025. This annual event brilliantly intertwines art, fashion, music, and gastronomic delights, reflecting the city’s unique cultural identity and creative spirit. With events designed to bring together locals and visitors alike, Oakland Style Week promises something spectacular for everyone. A Week of Intriguing Events The festivities kick off with the Art Clash on October 8th, where six emerging Bay Area artists will showcase their skills in a live painting competition. Attendees can support local art while enjoying live music and delicious bites—an event that's free to the public, encouraging community engagement and support for the Bay Area Mural Program. As the event progresses, food enthusiasts will enjoy a culinary tour with the Dine Around Oakland Style, where participating restaurants donate a portion of proceeds to the Oakland LGBTQ Community Center. Engaging with the local community through sustenance not only highlights Oakland’s vibrant food scene but also underscores its commitment to inclusivity. Pushing Boundaries The focus of events during Oakland Style doesn't stop at art and food—it also embraces innovation and creativity in mixology. On October 9th, the Mixology + Music event invites guests to taste creations from 12 of Oakland's finest mixologists as they compete for the best Oakland Style cocktail, blending mixology and local entertainment together. Dressing to Impress Fashion enthusiasts should not miss High Tea + High Style on October 10th at the stunning Claremont Resort and Spa. Here, attendees are encouraged to don their finest attire and engage with the latest collections from local designers. This elegant tea party offers the perfect opportunity not only to showcase unique outfits but also to support local artisans. Artistry and Expression Flourish On the following days, Oakland Style Week continues to promote creativity with events like the Art of Sneakers exhibition on October 11, featuring sustainable designs and workshops that allow participants to customize their own sneakers. This event demonstrates the crossover appeal of fashion, art, and sustainability—a reflection of Oakland’s evolving identity. Highlighting the community spirit, the Arts Alive event during Oakland Art Murmur showcases local galleries and performances, making the art scene accessible to everyone. Attendees are invited to roam between galleries and engage in diverse performances, enhancing Oakland’s reputation for creative collaboration. A Grand Finale The week is capped off with Cuisine + Couture, where culinary artistry meets fashion on October 12th. Students from the Oakland School for the Arts will showcase innovative designs inspired by local cuisine alongside prominent local chefs, exemplifying the rich culinary culture Oakland is known for. Oakland Style Week isn’t just a celebration of artistic expression; it’s a reaffirmation of the resilient, creative spirit that defines Oakland. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, this week-long extravaganza is an invitation to immerse yourself in the culture, creativity, and community of The Town. Don’t miss out on the opportunity to not only see the wonders Oakland has to offer but to participate in them directly. Join the Celebration! With vibrant events planned throughout the week, Oakland Style Week is the perfect backdrop for those looking to dive into the local culture. Reserve your stay at one of the local hotels and receive tickets to the signature events. Let Oakland's unique spirit inspire you as you discover its rich tapestry of style. Ready to join in? Click [here to learn more](http://www.visitoakland.com) about the upcoming festivities and make your plans to visit!

08.26.2025

Stephen Curry Teams Up with Chef Michael Mina for New Bourbon Bar Experience

Update Stephen Curry and Michael Mina: A Flavorful Partnership Set to Launch in Union Square In a delightful union of culinary excellence and sports legend, Stephen Curry, the Golden State Warriors superstar, is teaming up with acclaimed chef Michael Mina to unveil a new bourbon bar and steakhouse right in the heart of Union Square, San Francisco. Set to open in October, the ventures will not only feature Mina's renowned Bourbon Steak but also showcase Curry's own whiskey brand, creating a unique destination for food and drink enthusiasts. Why This Collaboration is a Game Changer for Union Square For those who have followed their journeys, this partnership holds special significance. Michael Mina opened his first restaurant in the iconic Westin St. Francis over two decades ago, aiming for culinary stardom in a city not short on competition. Now, he has transformed into a culinary mogul, boasting 25 restaurants worldwide and embarking on new adventures with the esteemed Curry. “I’ve always dreamt of creating my own little haven to bring people together,” Curry shared, highlighting the deeper connection they aim to cultivate through their joint venture. A Culinary Comeback in Union Square Union Square, long synonymous with high-end retail and vibrant culture, is no stranger to the culinary spotlight. The neighborhood is on the cusp of a rejuvenation, with a surge of new openings that promise to breathe fresh life into the area. Alongside Mina’s and Curry’s ventures, establishments like Nintendo and Pop Mart are also marking their territory here, signaling not just a comeback but an exciting renaissance of local culture. Community Impact and Employment Opportunities Beyond the thrills of dining, this newly blossoming venture is set to have tangible impacts on the community. The steakhouse is expected to create approximately 150 jobs, providing new employment opportunities amid the ongoing economic recovery. Mina expressed his fondness for the location, stating that it not only revived his career but now serves as an incubator for new talent and flavors. The Unique Appeal of Bourbon Bars Bourbon bars have surged in popularity, with patrons drawn to the warm, inviting atmosphere and the burgeoning craft cocktail scene. Curry's bar, aptly named The Eighth Rule, aims to blend this trend with the spirit of camaraderie and celebration, reflecting Curry's own ethos both on and off the court. His whiskey brand, Gentleman’s Cut, adds an authentic touch, offering an avenue for guests to explore flavors crafted with precision. A Local Influence with Global Reach Through this partnership, both Curry and Mina are showcasing the finest of what San Francisco has to offer. Seeing a local star such as Curry collaborate with a globally respected chef like Mina embodies the human spirit—celebrating shared experiences and diversity. Each sip and bite will resound with stories of their journeys, echoing the richness that local culture contributes to a broader narrative. Final Thoughts: A Must-Visit Destination This new venture is poised to be more than just a dining establishment; it promises to become a hub for community connection and celebration. With a shared vision of hospitality and a commitment to excellence, the partnership between Stephen Curry and Michael Mina is set to leave a lasting impact on Union Square and its visitors. If you're a local or a visitor, mark your calendars for October, as this culinary experience will be one to savor!

08.25.2025

Momo Noodle Leaves Saluhall: The Battle Over Meat Restrictions

Update The Departure of Momo Noodle: A Search for Culinary Freedom In a notable shift for the San Francisco culinary scene, Momo Noodle is parting ways with Saluhall, the Ikea-owned food court, to open a new location in the bustling Financial District later this September. The decision was driven by the food hall's restrictive policies on meat dishes, specifically affecting their popular rice-wine pork belly item. Co-founder June Guo expressed that Saluhall's requirement for a specific meat-to-vegetarian ratio greatly hindered their ability to showcase the authentic flavors of their Sichuan cuisine. Struggles of Plant-Forward Concepts Momo Noodle’s exit from Saluhall reflects a larger trend within the restaurant industry, where even plant-forward establishments have struggled to thrive. Saluhall itself began as a largely vegan venue but has shifted towards a more balanced approach, welcoming meat-centric concepts over time. This change has been echoed by high-profile names such as Michelin-starred Eleven Madison Park in New York, which recently announced its return to meat offerings after a four-year vegan-only experiment due to declining customer interest. Community Impact and Future Outlook As Momo Noodle embarks on this new chapter, Guo emphasizes her optimism for the city’s revitalization, especially as more companies promote a return-to-office agenda. The Financial District location is expected to bring in a steady stream of customers eager to enjoy their unique offerings. By carving out their own space, the founders aim to establish not just a storefront, but a community hub where food can reignite cultural connections. Taking Control of Culinary Identity Leaving Saluhall isn't merely a logistical decision; it’s about reclaiming identity. Guo noted the challenges of aligning with management that adopted strategies suited for London, stating, "San Francisco is a unique city with its own culture, pace, and palate." This insight underlines the importance of local adaptability in the restaurant business and raises a pivotal question: how can restaurants thrive when constrained by regulations that may not reflect local desires? A Call to Support Local Businesses The restaurant landscape in San Francisco showcases the diverse flavors and cultures that define the city. As we've seen with Momo Noodle's transition, supporting local restaurants means supporting local culture. As businesses continue to adapt and innovate, residents have a role in shaping a dynamic culinary scene by exploring new dining options. Consider giving Momo Noodle at their new 455 Market St. location a try and celebrate the diversity our city has to offer! If you want to stay updated on exciting food options and community news, consider subscribing to the Off Menu newsletter for the latest updates about dining in the Bay Area!

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