San Antonio - Oakland, CA Area Guide

In 1820, the last Spanish governor of California granted what is now San Antonio to Luis Maria Peralta, who quickly built a log and mud home for the local vaqueros (cowboys). In 1849, with the United States' annexation of California and the Gold Rush, Peralta's land soon became highly desirable to the state's burgeoning population. Today, San Antonio fosters a diverse population with a bounty of local culture and food.

Museums in or near this neighborhood include the Cohen Bray House and the Alameda Museum. The city of Oakland's annual marathon runs adjacent to San Antonio, bringing the fanfare, crowds, and cheering that come with it.

In San Antonio, residents have access to the best Mexican and Southeast Asian food in town. Along the southern border of San Antonio, International Boulevard has a bevy of inexpensive, ethnic eateries, from cafes to food trucks. Locals fancying somewhere swanky head over to the Grand Lake neighborhood or across the tidal canal to Alameda.

Taqueria Sinaloa, a bright orange truck on International Boulevard, pleases even the pickiest of taco enthusiasts. From its aguas frescas to supersized carne asada burritos, this truck ensures locals always find something delectable.

For a fresh take on comfort food, Bakeshop Oakland serves reimagined favorites such as biscuits and gravy, cookie sandwiches, brownies, and cheesecake lollipops in a casual, friendly environment. Try one of its sandwiches such as the Cubanito panini, or buy a box full of buttery lavender shortbread cookies for your friends and family or just for yourself.

Get the freshest sushi and Japanese cuisine at Kamakura in Alameda. From the deep-fried zucchini to the perfectly portioned tempura and sashimi combo, this charming family-owned establishment serves some of the area's best affordable sushi and sashimi. Spice lovers should try the moss roll with deep fried spicy tuna and seaweed salad or the spicy California roll with sriracha.

For nightlife, locals head over to the nearby Grand Lake and Fruitvale or the island of Alameda where bars from divey to pricey abound. Alameda's Forbidden Island on Lincoln Avenue flaunts retro charm with its enchanted tiki vibe, classic and exotic cocktails, and tropical vacation decor. Don't let the velvet paintings distract you from enjoying one of its well-balanced drinks such as the China Clipper with five-spice syrup, gold rum, and lemon juice and the Make Mine Ginger with ginger liqueur and bourbon.

In Grand Lake, Ordinaire focuses on organic California wines, with frequently-rotated reds and whites on tap, and a retail shop here features bottles from France, Italy, and Germany. Have a glass of Chardonnay or Bordeaux in this warm loft-like space, or try the sheep milk tartine or the duck confit and crackling salad to say "salut" to the perfect night out.

Since 2007, Rhythmix Cultural Works in Alameda has brought together residents of all ages for a variety of cultural performances and classes that promote community and participation in the arts. Spend a night out enjoying a Flamenco show, and take a Capoeira workshop the next day.

Film fans take a trip back to an opulent, architectural past at the historic Alameda Theatre & Cineplex. Built in 1932, the elaborate Art Deco establishment features gilt-framed mirrors and finely detailed metalwork that transport patrons to a dazzling, sculptured world while they check out the latest movies.

San Antonio residents can walk or ride bikes on mostly flat streets during the day. However, due to a general lack of biking infrastructure, driving a car or taking advantage of the area's extensive public transit often proves more realistic for running errands, going out, or getting to work.

With a multitude of AC Transit bus stops as well as the neighborhood's proximity to the Fruitvale BART station, locals have a bevy of options when it comes to public transportation. Riders can take a bus to downtown Oakland in about 20 minutes for $2.10, and they can get to San Francisco in about 40 minutes for a $2.10 bus fare and $3.30 for BART.

Calling a cab or using Uber remains a convenient for the occasional ride. Car owners find ample street parking in the neighborhood and have easy access to I-880.

Close to Lake Merritt, San Antonio residents have access to some of the most beautiful shoreline in town where they can run or walk the dog. For the perfect slow-paced day, rent a rowboat and go bird-watching, or ride your bike around the lake for a glorious 3.4 miles.

San Antonio Park features a community garden, a soccer field, playgrounds for the kids, basketball courts, and walking paths. The Malcolm X Jazz Festival celebrates community and culture at San Antonio Park in May, with three stages for live music along with vendors and food.

With a median one-bedroom rental rate of $874, the cost of living in San Antonio sits 10 percent lower than the Oakland average. The typical price of a beer at a restaurant in this area sits between $4 and $5, and the neighborhood gas average costs about 22 percent above the national average.

You can find major shopping areas with local or speciality boutiques in nearby Alameda, Grand Lake, and Fruitvale.

The West's oldest independent bookseller, Books Inc. in Alameda carries the latest titles while providing writing classes and author events. Well-stocked and well-staffed, Books Inc. has a decidedly small-town feel with its exceptional customer service and personal book recommendations.

East Oakland's Studio Home on High Street has the best selection of moderately priced mid-century modern furniture in the area. Residents looking for a new sofa can have one customized in just the right shade of plum and have it delivered to their door. Check out this elegantly furnished gem of a showroom filled with objects made of acacia and sandalwood.

Inexpensive produce and kitchen staples abound in San Antonio's selection of ethnic grocery stores. At Mi Pueblo Food Center, you can stock up on amazingly priced produce, pastries, and meats while loading up on homemade tamales, pinatas for your next party, and even a themed birthday cake. The local gourmand loves the Alameda Marketplace for specialty shops under one roof. Get your chocolate, raspberry, pistachio, or mango macaron fix at Feel Good Bakery. Locals love Farmstead Cheese and Wines, where cheesemongers serve up the best in domestic dairy from California to Wisconsin.

The East Oakland Farmers Market on Fridays in May through November has the organic and locally-made goodies residents need to get through a delicious week.