Gretchen Roethle December 5, 2025
Fourth Street is one of the East Bay’s most beloved lifestyle destinations—a walkable stretch of independent boutiques, national brands, design showrooms, and unfussy places to eat. It’s polished but relaxed, family-friendly without being sleepy, and one of those rare retail corridors that actually adds value to daily life.
Category: Café / lunch / coffee
A bright, welcoming café perfect for brunch, lunch meetings, or a mid-shopping espresso. It anchors Fourth Street’s daytime energy and is always buzzing (in a good way).
Category: Classic diner
A true Berkeley institution. Pancakes, comfort food, families, and locals at every table. It’s the kind of place people bring visitors to—and keep coming back to themselves.
Category: Apparel / athleisure
Effortless West Coast style. Vuori nails the “from school drop-off to dinner out” look, making it a favorite for locals who value comfort and polish equally.
Category: Beauty / fragrance
An elegant stop for refined scents and gifts. Luxury without feeling precious—perfect for thoughtful gifting or a quiet indulgence.
Category: Home & garden
A Fourth Street classic. Beautifully curated home, garden, and lifestyle pieces that feel earthy, soulful, and timeless. A favorite for designers and homeowners alike.
Category: Athletic apparel & footwear
A staple for active East Bay life. Shoes, gear, and everyday athletic wear in a convenient, approachable retail space.
Category: Beauty & skincare
A reliable one-stop shop for essentials and treats alike—easy, convenient, and always appreciated on a shopping day.
Category: Home design / materials
Design-forward and deeply aligned with sustainability. Fireclay is a favorite for remodels, kitchens, and anyone dreaming beyond builder-grade finishes.
Category: Eyewear
Stylish, smart, and accessible. A practical Fourth Street stop that still feels design-conscious and modern.
Category: Smoothies & wellness
The smoothie spot you were thinking of. Quick, nourishing, and perfect post-shopping or post-workout. A staple for health-minded locals.
Category: Apparel & home
Bohemian-leaning clothing, gifts, and home décor that always feels seasonal and aspirational. A Fourth Street anchor with loyal followers.
Category: Casual fashion
Elevated basics done right. Denim, tees, sweaters, and bags that work beautifully for real life—not just special occasions.
Category: Furniture & home décor
Clean lines, modern design, and great staging inspiration. A favorite for first-time buyers and design-minded homeowners.
Category: Children’s toys & books
Beloved by families. Thoughtful toys, games, and books that emphasize creativity and learning—perfect for gifting or weekend outings.
Category: Books & learning
A quietly wonderful bookstore specializing in design, architecture, parenting, and personal growth. A gem that reflects Berkeley’s intellectual soul.
Fourth Street isn’t about flash—it’s about livability. You can grab coffee, shop for clothes, design a kitchen, buy a gift, feed your kids, and still feel unrushed. For buyers and renters alike, this kind of everyday accessibility is a powerful lifestyle draw—and one of the reasons nearby neighborhoods hold lasting appeal.
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A look at this month’s market trends, a note of gratitude, and festive events to close the year.
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