If you are wondering what places he ate and drank at here you go! 1. Boichik Bagels 2. The Caffe by Mr Espresso 3. Blue Bottle Coffee 4. Rattos Market and Deli 5. Graffiti Pizza 6. Swans Market 7. Hot Boys Chicken 8. Shan Dong 9. Mings Tasty Restaurant 10. Yuen Hop Noodle Company 11. Heinholds Saloon 12. Cafe Van Kleef 13. Bar Shiru 14. Agave Uptown 15. The Saint 16. Horn BBQ 17. The Lake Chalet 18. Cole Coffee 19. The Crown 20 New Parkway Theatre 21. Lovely's 22 Oakland Farmers Market
The internet: "Oakland is a nightmare hellscape" Me, an oaklander: *looks out the window at trees and wildflowers, birds chirping, butterflies flying around* Me: yeah it's AWFUL don't come here
Oakland is one of the most dangerous cities in the country. Oakland is also one the most beautiful cities in the world. I was born and raised in San Francisco and as much as I hate to say it, parts of Oakland are MUCH nicer than even our tourist areas. I’ll always take my city over oakland but still
@dr.timsmith5539lol what an incredibly childish response. What did he say that caused you to respond like a crying ass baby? He said he lives downtown, and you don’t even live there anymore.
I wish I can live in Oakland you should be lucky I live in a small town Santa Rosa I hate it I hate being kid i wish I can move here now by the time I finish my life and I move here everything will change in the future I’m very sad I can move here I’m depressed and less active I hate Santa Rosa I wish I can move here your lucky don’t take Oakland for granted
I was born and raised in Oakland, and still live here. That said, folks he have roots here know why we stay, the beautiful outweighs the ugly, and we know this crazy shit in the town will pass! We have some of the best weather in the world, and a vibrant art and restaurant scene. I HATE the crime and the grime, and I believe it will pass... Hang in there folks and don't let this period get you down!
Or it's because when you live somewhere, you don't really see it from the outside. Sometimes you don't know how bad it is and you become numb to it 🤷🏾♀️ I was born and raised in Oakland and it wasn't until I left that I realized I have PTSD from the nonsense 😢
I have lived in the Bay Area for 20+ years...and I have heard "it will pass" or "it will get better" for the last 20 years but it hasn't. Oakland used to be preferred by many East and South Bay Asians to visit instead of going all the way to SF Chinatown, but not many are willing to risk their safety.
Great video, and appropriately "confusing" in that, yes, Oakland provides so much culture and wonderful dining opportunities and eclectic shops, yet, it's difficult to feel safe. I LOVE Oakland. I HATE Oakland. We have stayed in Oakland a few times. Last August, we saw a wonderful concert at Frank Ogawa Square. I know the mayor is fighting to keep the A's, yet, the city failed to submit for that crime-fighting grant from the state, angering residents. A big WTF!?? It's unlikely we will stay in Oakland again, unfortunately, as our "luck" has been good there, but it may be only a matter of time before we are not so lucky.
You said in a few sentences what took me a 14 minute video. There’s so much to love about Oakland, the Bay Area, and NorCal (you already know that 🙂). But in some places, it has become increasingly disappointing and frustrating.
I mean he showed that there's a good side too but i think he should of showed every part of Oakland I really thought he was going to show some good taco spots in east Oakland. Missed a great opportunity smh
Im 18 and moving off to college in San Diego soon. Growing up in Oakland you see everything. From the crackheads at the coliseum bart station to the best pizza in Oakland at square pie guys in Downtown Oakland you see everything. Yet I love Oakland so much. Oakland is and always will be home even though it’s pretty crazy.
I'm in San Ramon, and people from Oakland are coming over here to shoplift and shit thinking we are easy pickings. Police always catch them, Thieves, stay out.
@@lavendeer6290 No? Simply a resident who's sick of kids from Oakland stealing shit from the stores. Stores such as Target always look trashed bc of it.
Wherever there's a place with money next to where people are struggling there's gonna be crime, and that's why Danville looks down on San Ramon which looks down on Oakland which looks down on Hayward.
Much respect with showing the bright sides of Oakland California. But with me being on Oakland native and having some random guy try to murder me for no apparent reason so even though I live out here I do not hang out anywhere in Oakland.
I'm from Hayward bro, I got robbed out here and there isn't even anything cool to do, so look on the bright side. I love hanging out in Oakland, although I make sure my car is empty first.
I've riden limes, bar hopped, worked, dined and had a great time in Oakland. To me it wasn't very different than my hometown. My youngest was born in Oakland. Anyway, great video! Thanks for sharing!
Born and raised in Oakland, I love this place. Despite differing opinions on certain parts, I still appreciate the light and love that Oakland has to offer.
Oakland is the most diverse American city in the world, where most people are locals in one way or another. Furthermore, Oakland represents America, it’s beautiful yet still has room for improvement.
Oakland's amazing, but the problem with going there constantly is the theft and damage to your car and attacks that will likely happen if you visit or work there often.
@@mk-oc7mt I work there around lake merrit. Have had my car broken in twice after hours when the guys want to go drinking. and have had several instances of female coworkers telling me they were assaulted by someone on Bart. I think a lot of the exposure to crime heavily depends on the lifestyle involving Oakland. Once you've grown accustom to it, you learn to be smarter about it to prevent those things from happening again.
Thank you for showing some of west Oakland and Downtowns best spots! But Oakland is freaking huge too!! I get why you didn’t go but not even one shot of international blvd?? Fruitvale?? Temescal?? College, rock ridge? Montclair?
07:16 Children’s Fairyland wasn’t the only Bay Area gem that inspired Walt Disney. The Redwood Valley Steam Trains inspired Walt to build the Disneyland Railroad. The Steam Trains are on state land and is technically in Orinda, but is only accessible through Oakland.
I love Oakland. I lived in West Oakland, on Piedmont Ave and in jack london square. I truly am missing it. But I had a child and decided to move to Dublin, CA. And when we’re ready to buy a house, Portland. Thanks for such a positive Oakland video.
Thank you so much for making this. After seeing so many videos of out-of-towners only filming the worst of the worst I wish more people across the country would see this. I grew up in Hayward, which is also very ghetto in places without any of the charm or culture or excitement that Oakland has, so believe me when I say Oakland, warts and bums and crime and all, is a very special place.
I’ve been in the flatlands of Oakland for 50+ years. The crime used to be isolated to particular areas, after gentrification happened, the criminals figured out these folks had money and were clueless to living in “urban” areas-easy targets. Those that have stayed, have adapted and can be friendly. You did a great and truthful depiction of my City. I love it here-good and bad.
As an Oakland resident I learned about a lot of places that are literally blocks away from my own home! Oakland Chinatown is definitely superior to SF Chinatown in terms of authenticity. And agree, the food scene here is (arguably) one of the best in the world but surprisingly expensive. Thank you for showcasing the better side of Oakland for the world to see.
My job requires me to travel all around Oakland, mostly the flatlands of East Oakland, been doing the job since 2017 and the only crimes I've personally witnessed are reckless driving. When I'm out in the deep East I love to stop for street tacos at 104th & International or 98th & San Leandro. But I'm mostly lucky up to this point, I grew up here and tragically almost everyone who grew up in the flatlands knows atleast 1 person who died as a result of violence. I know 4. From my group of highschool and childhood friends most have long left the city to gain some distance from their trauma and raise their families with a greater measure of security. My plan was to NEVER have my son live here as a teenager but we are at that point now, and the housing affordability crisis has me a little stuck, so I try to make sure I drive my son everywhere and shelter him as much as possible.
Comprehensive! Makes me almost want to visit Oakland. I'm impressed with the museums, art installations, churches, gardens, etc. I was super amused that Fairyland was inspiration for Disneyland. There's also a couch-style theater in Hood River, Oregon. What are they doing about homelessness and crime?
I was born and raised in Oakland California I still live here and I love it especially how diverse our city is. No the city is not perfect we do have a high crime rate and the homeless population has gotten worst since 2020 but it’s still home to me and there’s no place like home 🥰
@@mandrew31 yea huckleberry’s nice, I live right next to Joaquin miller park and it’s pretty nice, also some good views there. Sibleys a really cool spot too
Really enjoy your content Adam, you don’t engage in stupid political rhetoric etc., and just show the beauty and vices of a city, the Amtrak trains etc. You’re a good documentarian!
I just watched all your Oakland A's videos and your tenderloin video as well. I like your style, I'm subscribed now. I have family in Oakland near Berkley and I've loved the time I've spent there visiting even though I have seen some of the uglier parts. I feel some kinship with Oakland having lived in Detroit for a while, I know what it's like to only have the negative parts of your city talked about by outsiders. Yes there are problems that shouldn't be ignored (and unfortunately don't seem to be getting better anytime soon) but there are beautiful, enjoyable parts as well.
Glad to have you here! If you want big problems, we've got them here in Oakland. But just like Detroit, there are some great reasons that people still live here!
Spent four days, 3 nights in Oakland for a work conference. Hotel was right in Chinatown, really enjoyed the food and local businesses/community. Walked around the area by the hotel during the night etc. Nothing happened, but immediately after I left several people were attacked/robbed including a business I visited, and random pedestrians walking in the same area I was. Extremely unnerving in retrospect and would probably rethink the night walks if I ever returned.
Adam you are by far my favorite Bay Area local neighborhood video transit food dude. If you ever make it out to the Haystack, I'll buy you a drink at the Turf Club.
I live here in Oakland....in spite of all the negative for once someone finally posts something positive. Oakland has alot to offer but who would know it. THANK YOU SOOOOO MUCH ADAM FOR THIS VIDEO !!!!!!
Thank you for posting this video! Every other TH-camr that comes to Oakland just bashes the city and only shows the worst parts of our city. Oakland is an incredible place and a hidden gem in the Shadow of San Francisco.
Just got back from visiting Oakland for the first time. My family really enjoyed the stay and would like to go back. Didn’t have any issues walking the streets at all and people were super nice.
Love how you pointed out so many positives about Oakland. I have been in the Bay Area 38 years of life and yes, Oakland has a lot of negatives but there are a lot of positives as well. Don't forget that there is the Oakland Zoo which is also a great time to go to. Chabot Golf Course is home to one of the most beautiful golf courses in the country. Great views overlooking the whole bay area.
Born and raised in Oakland. Have lived almost my entire adult life in Oakland as well. Thank you for sharing the side of Oakland that the news networks never show. Yeah, Oakland has its problems, but I don’t think Oaklands problems are that different from any other major cities. I have blown the minds of several out of state friends of mine when I show them the real Oakland
I've lived by Lake Merritt 27 years and this is a great tribute to our wonderful town. We've got problems but are sick of outsiders and media reducing us to those problems and we're sick of know-it-alls (some among us) who expect someone else to immediately fix problems that are decades in the making. One thing that's missing is the volunteers; tons of people are involved in community safety patrols, park clean up days, organizing cultural events, providing services to unhoused folks, etc. Groups like Community Ready Corps, Trybe, CURYJ and many more serve and transform our communities. And there's always something free happening outside from roller disco at Brooklyn Basin to First Friday Art Walks to the Malcolm X Jazz Festival to the Lunar New Year Parade and much, much more. Visitors should take the same precautions as in any city: be aware of your surroundings and leave nothing in a parked car, but you don't need to walk in fear. Oakland is one of the friendliest places on earth and our motto is #LoveLife.
Man thank you for making this video. I think a lot of us have a hate love relationship with Oakland and it's primarily because of how we knew it growing up and what it's becoming. There's still a lot of good things here too and we still wanna show people what it has to offer.
I grew up in Oakland. This video filled we with nostalgia because I haven’t been there for probably over a year. I miss it. Sure, I had some pretty frightening experiences there but I moved to a “nicer” area and had some pretty frightening experiences here too. So… I don’t even know anymore.
Living close to Oakland and watching it morphe over time has been wild but this mskes me wanna give it a second chance and check out some of the amazing stuff.
I live in sonoma county, but I always enjoy visiting my friends in oakland. It gets a remarkably bad rap but I've met some of the kindest most creative people I know out there. The community is no joke, and if you're looking to participate, there are some absolutely amazing grass-roots projects and initiatives happening right now. When I think of Oakland I think of art, passion, and good people.
Thank you for showing the other side of the Bay Area. One complaint: you didn't go to the zoo, which has an amazing view and grizzly bears. It was my favorite activity as a kid, especially with the "zoo keys" that unlocked informational audio about the animals. My sister and I would fight about who got to use it. Also Berkely; I know its not Oakland, but Oakland should claim Berkely: especially Cactus Taqueria, that great market on College St., and, of course, Codornices Park and the Rose Garden. Regardless, you have captured some quality, a je ne sais quoi about Oakland that I miss -- and mourn.
Thank you for this vid. East Bay born and raised, I always love visiting Oakland. It definitely has issues but no large city is perfect...as far as I know.
As someone who has lived in a rural part of the US their whole life. I cannot fathom a sign that says "break ins are common." There is no excuse for that. You would get shot here.
Thanks for showing the parts of my home that the media ignores. Oakland has so many beautiful spots, but it does have lots of problems as well. It wasn't always this way. We need better leaders to clean it up.
I moved to Livermore from Honolulu, my friend lives in Oakland because it's cheap, he would rather get out of there. But he took me to Oakland and man.. that was the first time I've ever seen prostitutes roaming the roads, like literally standing and dancing in the middle of the road and cars just casually running red lights. It was like being in a GTA server. I kinda doubt people live there because they *want* too.
Many people who live in Oakland live there because they want to. And it’s not cheap at all so there is no reason to live there unless you want to or literally have no money to relocate to a much cheaper city which is basically any city in Nor Cal besides San Francisco.
My girlfriend lived in Oakland until just recently, right off of Grand near the bonsai garden. I had two different cars stolen right in front of her apartment twice in four months. Second time I got in a fight with the thieves and they broke one of my ribs. I still defend Oakland to out of towners that talk shit. That is, until the Juneteenth party at Lake Merritt turned into a full on gun fight with like ten people involved in broad daylight. You can keep that shit.
I’ve really enjoyed many of the experiences I’ve had in Oakland, but the city is in a situation now where the odds are too high that I’ll become a crime victim. Not worth it for me no matter how good the coffee, beer, bagel and arts scene is there.
Awesome video. You seem to love Oakland and you should explore more. Make a video highlighting Dimond, laurel, fruitvale and other parts of the East. No video is completely accurate without the backbone of the city east of lake Merritt. People like to talk shit for various reasons but it’s actually super beautiful here with our own hidden gems.
I grew up in Oakland, and i dont think there is anything as magical as Oakland. I however, do get very sad about the state of it --crime is high, it can be scary, but among that theres treasures upon treasures of things. I think the Asian food there is top notch better then most, my favorite sandwich spot is Vietnamese at Banh Mi Ba Le, and hole in the wall restaurants like Thanh Ky, Champa Garden, or Cam Houng. The life at night! The music! Everything is so alive! Maybe too alive at times.
Went to Oakland for like the first time ever, might've been once but probably too young to remember. But anyways we were chillin in the car after going for a short walk around and I look behind me and I see the car parked behind us get broken into, dude jumps in through the back window, ran sacks everything and takes off. First time there remember, Oakland is in fact wild and you are guaranteed to see something wild if you go there for the first time too.
Aay, born n raised in oakland. Love it for Life! Saw a Gil Scott Heron concert at Arroyo Park in 70s. Worked way thru college at Lake Merritt. Drive the Merritt Queen in weekends. Slid down the hills on cardboard boxes near Knowland Park. Yep its a tough place but get off sidelines like Panthers did and make it better. U left out Everett and Jones bbq, and This Is It bakery. We'll know ur really Oakland when u mention all the GREAT athletes, musicians and neighborhood pick up games in the city. Hella facts!
I have grown up here and am getting ready to fly half way across the country for college. You have brought back memories I forgot I had at many of these places. Thanks😂😅
If you walk down the creek on the bridge view trail there’s some cool graffiti and an abandoned piano under the bridge. Very cool place. Plus you can look for golf balls from the driving range on the trail
I live in Oakland. I hate hot weather. So, for me, the weather is not "perfect" when it gets into the eighties or nineties. Fortunately, that does not happen in Oakland too often. I prefer the weather in Pacifica and San Francisco.
Amazing video! Thanks for giving nuance to a city of contradictions. It’s only fitting it was recorded on a broken iphone 😭 Also good riddance to Horn BBQ. The owner refused to pay his employees (including my friend!) and then he burned down his building for the insurance money and tried to make it look like vandals. That guy can suck a lemon. As a Texan living in West Oakland, believe me, there’s better brisket out there. And certainly for cheaper.
Yeah, I live in The Bay, and this is pretty accurate. If you do go to Oakland, I have advice. Visit Alameda too! It’s a very nice city right next to Oakland.
I loved living in Oakland, but there was some truly horrible stuff that went on there. I would love to move back, but now i have kids. I can accept the risks of living somewhere like that, but i can't expect them to.
If you're visiting (or living in) Oakland around mid October, be sure to stop by the botanical garden for their Autumn Lights Festival! It includes my personal favorite recurring installations from the Empire of Dirt which you'll be sorry to miss if you like art cars, sci-fi or fire.
i have a love hate relationship with Oakland, having lived there up until high school, it was fantastic. The amount of diversity in culture allows for so many unique experiences, however, the crime drove my family out. Sometimes we would be scared to go on walks, having passed by numerous drive by scenes. I lives right next to Lake Merit and the Haddon Hill cafe near me would constantly be robbed, a reason we wouldn't go. When I am old enough and have enough money, I am definitely considering moving back just because of how much I love the city
Love hate is kind of the only way to have a relationship with Oakland. Haddon Hill Cafe is in a really nice area. I'm surprised to hear they're crime victims as well.
If you are wondering what places he ate and drank at here you go!
1. Boichik Bagels
2. The Caffe by Mr Espresso
3. Blue Bottle Coffee
4. Rattos Market and Deli
5. Graffiti Pizza
6. Swans Market
7. Hot Boys Chicken
8. Shan Dong
9. Mings Tasty Restaurant
10. Yuen Hop Noodle Company
11. Heinholds Saloon
12. Cafe Van Kleef
13. Bar Shiru
14. Agave Uptown
15. The Saint
16. Horn BBQ
17. The Lake Chalet
18. Cole Coffee
19. The Crown
20 New Parkway Theatre
21. Lovely's
22 Oakland Farmers Market
Thank you for doing this!
He is missing out on HomeRoom restaurant
That just shows someone stuck in a comfort zone. Unwilling to expand their outlook
Home room mac n cheese
@@Yoshi_SF Bakesale Betty’s 🏆 & Brenda’s 🏆
The Bay Area is like heaven and hell combined
Perfectly said
Nope just hell 😂
its called the city of angles for a reason
No, just hell. Try being white living here. The irony is not lost on me.
the word you’re looking for is “dystopia”
I really like this and the San Francisco video really gives you a sense of the area
Thank you! That was my goal. Give a fair, but positive overview of the area.
Spend 72 hours in East Oakland.
people that live in better conditions just ignore other peoples problems
72 hours on International Blvd
This is the only comment he didn’t like😭😭
@@karkevicius lol
east oakland isnt that bad
If we can get competent leadership that's willing to address all the problems here, Oakland could be one of this country's great cities.
That’s a massive “if.” But I completely agree.
*voters. Fixed.
Watch out for corporate interests. The "development" industry seeks to gut this place for all it's worth.
Yeah. Ain't never gonna happen.
The voters get what they vote for. Maybe they could try voting conservative for once
The internet: "Oakland is a nightmare hellscape"
Me, an oaklander: *looks out the window at trees and wildflowers, birds chirping, butterflies flying around*
Me: yeah it's AWFUL don't come here
So much good stuff going on in Oakland. There are huge problems... and so many reasons to stay.
@dr.timsmith5539 That's where I live Tim
Oakland is one of the most dangerous cities in the country. Oakland is also one the most beautiful cities in the world.
I was born and raised in San Francisco and as much as I hate to say it, parts of Oakland are MUCH nicer than even our tourist areas. I’ll always take my city over oakland but still
@dr.timsmith5539bro, compare this video to any city on the east coast.. Philly, Harlem, Detroit.. this is paradise and you are a 😻
@dr.timsmith5539lol what an incredibly childish response. What did he say that caused you to respond like a crying ass baby? He said he lives downtown, and you don’t even live there anymore.
Cool video. I live here and I hate it but I loved your video!
Thank you! I know exactly how you feel. You gotta find stuff you love because there is so much here.
Yall should just move to Austin or something
@@feloniousbutterflythen they’d be in 110 degree Texas instead of the coast of California.
@@feloniousbutterflyfck texas lol
I wish I can live in Oakland you should be lucky I live in a small town Santa Rosa I hate it I hate being kid i wish I can move here now by the time I finish my life and I move here everything will change in the future I’m very sad I can move here I’m depressed and less active I hate Santa Rosa I wish I can move here your lucky don’t take Oakland for granted
I was born and raised in Oakland, and still live here. That said, folks he have roots here know why we stay, the beautiful outweighs the ugly, and we know this crazy shit in the town will pass! We have some of the best weather in the world, and a vibrant art and restaurant scene. I HATE the crime and the grime, and I believe it will pass... Hang in there folks and don't let this period get you down!
Or it's because when you live somewhere, you don't really see it from the outside. Sometimes you don't know how bad it is and you become numb to it 🤷🏾♀️ I was born and raised in Oakland and it wasn't until I left that I realized I have PTSD from the nonsense 😢
Most stay cus they got no choice or the means to just pack and move anywhere they want.
Why would it pass?
What are we planning to.change?
More power to you. If businesses and people are not attracted to or flee Oakland, the future is worse not better.
I have lived in the Bay Area for 20+ years...and I have heard "it will pass" or "it will get better" for the last 20 years but it hasn't. Oakland used to be preferred by many East and South Bay Asians to visit instead of going all the way to SF Chinatown, but not many are willing to risk their safety.
Great video, and appropriately "confusing" in that, yes, Oakland provides so much culture and wonderful dining opportunities and eclectic shops, yet, it's difficult to feel safe. I LOVE Oakland. I HATE Oakland. We have stayed in Oakland a few times. Last August, we saw a wonderful concert at Frank Ogawa Square. I know the mayor is fighting to keep the A's, yet, the city failed to submit for that crime-fighting grant from the state, angering residents. A big WTF!?? It's unlikely we will stay in Oakland again, unfortunately, as our "luck" has been good there, but it may be only a matter of time before we are not so lucky.
You said in a few sentences what took me a 14 minute video. There’s so much to love about Oakland, the Bay Area, and NorCal (you already know that 🙂). But in some places, it has become increasingly disappointing and frustrating.
Shame that BlueBottle got bought out by Nestle. The company that has said water is not a human right.
I certainly don't frequent Blue Bottle, haven't been since I made this video actually. But I've got to admit, the people there were very nice to me.
nooooooo
I haven't been to Blue Bottle since. It's a real shame. There was no reason for dude to sell out especially to Nestle.
Bill Burr has a funny bit about the people at Nestlé 😂
Booooooo
Only accurate Oakland TH-cam doc type video thank u for not bashing us like everyone else😂
Thank you!
I mean he showed that there's a good side too but i think he should of showed every part of Oakland I really thought he was going to show some good taco spots in east Oakland. Missed a great opportunity smh
This video deserves so much more views than the amount it has
That means a lot! I still have to figure out a title and thumbnail that makes sense for this video which could help!
Im 18 and moving off to college in San Diego soon. Growing up in Oakland you see everything. From the crackheads at the coliseum bart station to the best pizza in Oakland at square pie guys in Downtown Oakland you see everything. Yet I love Oakland so much. Oakland is and always will be home even though it’s pretty crazy.
Well said! It's a special place and means so much to so many. But it's got a wild side!
Cybelle's Pizza on Fruitvale + MacArthur. IYKYK
Moved out in 2018, hope to never go back
Thank you, I just moved to Oakland a few months ago and had no idea what to do here. Now I'm set
I live in Alameda, and I used to frequent in Oakland a lot. Did not know most of these places were there. Awesome video.
Thank you!
I love Alameda too, I lived there for a few years too. But man Oakland is... theres just a whole lot of everything and i love it.
I'm in San Ramon, and people from Oakland are coming over here to shoplift and shit thinking we are easy pickings. Police always catch them, Thieves, stay out.
Reparations. The stores are insured.
Are you a store? Did a store write this comment?
@@lavendeer6290 No? Simply a resident who's sick of kids from Oakland stealing shit from the stores. Stores such as Target always look trashed bc of it.
Wherever there's a place with money next to where people are struggling there's gonna be crime, and that's why Danville looks down on San Ramon which looks down on Oakland which looks down on Hayward.
Can you list all the places you visited in your description.
Thanks for making this video. I live here as well.
I might try, there were certainly a lot of them! Glad you liked it!!
Dang. This was a vibe. Thanks for highlighting the town.
Thank you!!
Much respect with showing the bright sides of Oakland California. But with me being on Oakland native and having some random guy try to murder me for no apparent reason so even though I live out here I do not hang out anywhere in Oakland.
That's a really frustrating and bizarre feeling. I get it.
I'm from Hayward bro, I got robbed out here and there isn't even anything cool to do, so look on the bright side. I love hanging out in Oakland, although I make sure my car is empty first.
I've riden limes, bar hopped, worked, dined and had a great time in Oakland. To me it wasn't very different than my hometown. My youngest was born in Oakland.
Anyway, great video! Thanks for sharing!
Thanks! Glad you liked it!
Dude, this video is PACKED with great ideas. Filled up my Oakland Yelp collection for my next trip out.
Born and raised in Oakland, I love this place. Despite differing opinions on certain parts, I still appreciate the light and love that Oakland has to offer.
You earn your self a subscriber. Good content. Im from San Francisco btw.
Awesome thank you!
Oakland is the most diverse American city in the world, where most people are locals in one way or another.
Furthermore, Oakland represents America, it’s beautiful yet still has room for improvement.
Exactly!
Oakland's amazing, but the problem with going there constantly is the theft and damage to your car and attacks that will likely happen if you visit or work there often.
I live here. Never been attacked, never had my car broken into, never been stolen from. Not constantly at all lmao.
@@mk-oc7mt I work there around lake merrit. Have had my car broken in twice after hours when the guys want to go drinking. and have had several instances of female coworkers telling me they were assaulted by someone on Bart. I think a lot of the exposure to crime heavily depends on the lifestyle involving Oakland. Once you've grown accustom to it, you learn to be smarter about it to prevent those things from happening again.
@@CyanYam why are you driving around when you are your friends go out drinking
Thank you for showing some of west Oakland and Downtowns best spots! But Oakland is freaking huge too!! I get why you didn’t go but not even one shot of international blvd?? Fruitvale?? Temescal?? College, rock ridge? Montclair?
Montclair is in there. There are so many neighborhoods, an no way to cover them all in three days!
@@AdamDoesNotExist Visit International Blvd. Good Mexican food there.
07:16 Children’s Fairyland wasn’t the only Bay Area gem that inspired Walt Disney. The Redwood Valley Steam Trains inspired Walt to build the Disneyland Railroad. The Steam Trains are on state land and is technically in Orinda, but is only accessible through Oakland.
I love Oakland. I lived in West Oakland, on Piedmont Ave and in jack london square. I truly am missing it. But I had a child and decided to move to Dublin, CA. And when we’re ready to buy a house, Portland. Thanks for such a positive Oakland video.
That makes a lot of sense to me. Having kids in a place like this could be really tough.
Thank you so much for making this. After seeing so many videos of out-of-towners only filming the worst of the worst I wish more people across the country would see this. I grew up in Hayward, which is also very ghetto in places without any of the charm or culture or excitement that Oakland has, so believe me when I say Oakland, warts and bums and crime and all, is a very special place.
I’ve been in the flatlands of Oakland for 50+ years. The crime used to be isolated to particular areas, after gentrification happened, the criminals figured out these folks had money and were clueless to living in “urban” areas-easy targets. Those that have stayed, have adapted and can be friendly. You did a great and truthful depiction of my City. I love it here-good and bad.
As an Oakland resident I learned about a lot of places that are literally blocks away from my own home! Oakland Chinatown is definitely superior to SF Chinatown in terms of authenticity. And agree, the food scene here is (arguably) one of the best in the world but surprisingly expensive. Thank you for showcasing the better side of Oakland for the world to see.
Glad you liked it!
SF CHINA TOWN IS SOUPIERE TO OAKLANDS CHINA TOWN AND THAT IS FINALLY
My job requires me to travel all around Oakland, mostly the flatlands of East Oakland, been doing the job since 2017 and the only crimes I've personally witnessed are reckless driving. When I'm out in the deep East I love to stop for street tacos at 104th & International or 98th & San Leandro. But I'm mostly lucky up to this point, I grew up here and tragically almost everyone who grew up in the flatlands knows atleast 1 person who died as a result of violence. I know 4. From my group of highschool and childhood friends most have long left the city to gain some distance from their trauma and raise their families with a greater measure of security. My plan was to NEVER have my son live here as a teenager but we are at that point now, and the housing affordability crisis has me a little stuck, so I try to make sure I drive my son everywhere and shelter him as much as possible.
The BEST video on current day Oakland I have seen yet bro! NEW SUBSCRIBER and I look forward to seeing more of your content! 💪🏻
Awesome! Thank you!
Comprehensive! Makes me almost want to visit Oakland. I'm impressed with the museums, art installations, churches, gardens, etc. I was super amused that Fairyland was inspiration for Disneyland. There's also a couch-style theater in Hood River, Oregon. What are they doing about homelessness and crime?
damn this video's pacing is perfect and it's fantastically produced! you got yourself a sub
Thanks! Glad you have you here!
I was born and raised in Oakland California I still live here and I love it especially how diverse our city is. No the city is not perfect we do have a high crime rate and the homeless population has gotten worst since 2020 but it’s still home to me and there’s no place like home 🥰
Preach! This is exactly how I feel
The oakland hills are hella nice, some of the nicest regional parks in the area
Agreed, Huckleberry and Redwood are my favorite parks in the Bay.
@@mandrew31 yea huckleberry’s nice, I live right next to Joaquin miller park and it’s pretty nice, also some good views there. Sibleys a really cool spot too
Really enjoy your content Adam, you don’t engage in stupid political rhetoric etc., and just show the beauty and vices of a city, the Amtrak trains etc.
You’re a good documentarian!
Thank you. I really appreciate that!!
I just watched all your Oakland A's videos and your tenderloin video as well. I like your style, I'm subscribed now.
I have family in Oakland near Berkley and I've loved the time I've spent there visiting even though I have seen some of the uglier parts. I feel some kinship with Oakland having lived in Detroit for a while, I know what it's like to only have the negative parts of your city talked about by outsiders. Yes there are problems that shouldn't be ignored (and unfortunately don't seem to be getting better anytime soon) but there are beautiful, enjoyable parts as well.
Glad to have you here! If you want big problems, we've got them here in Oakland. But just like Detroit, there are some great reasons that people still live here!
Spent four days, 3 nights in Oakland for a work conference. Hotel was right in Chinatown, really enjoyed the food and local businesses/community. Walked around the area by the hotel during the night etc. Nothing happened, but immediately after I left several people were attacked/robbed including a business I visited, and random pedestrians walking in the same area I was. Extremely unnerving in retrospect and would probably rethink the night walks if I ever returned.
Adam you are by far my favorite Bay Area local neighborhood video transit food dude. If you ever make it out to the Haystack, I'll buy you a drink at the Turf Club.
So glad I found this awesome video! Exactly what the people (me) wanted to see.
I live here in Oakland....in spite of all the negative for once someone finally posts something positive. Oakland has alot to offer but who would know it. THANK YOU SOOOOO MUCH ADAM FOR THIS VIDEO !!!!!!
Love it! OAK is cool as long as you're not a car! I've been in SF for a few years and wrote down some of your recommendations.
I'm going to check out that bagel spot. Thanks for the tip.
They have two locations now!
grew up in oakland but u still putting me on to so much. thanks slime
Thank you for posting this video! Every other TH-camr that comes to Oakland just bashes the city and only shows the worst parts of our city. Oakland is an incredible place and a hidden gem in the Shadow of San Francisco.
What a great video. Gives a different perspective on such a great city.❤
Glad you enjoyed it
Just got back from visiting Oakland for the first time. My family really enjoyed the stay and would like to go back. Didn’t have any issues walking the streets at all and people were super nice.
Love how you pointed out so many positives about Oakland. I have been in the Bay Area 38 years of life and yes, Oakland has a lot of negatives but there are a lot of positives as well.
Don't forget that there is the Oakland Zoo which is also a great time to go to.
Chabot Golf Course is home to one of the most beautiful golf courses in the country. Great views overlooking the whole bay area.
I love Chabot. You could make this video hours long!
Born and raised in Oakland. Have lived almost my entire adult life in Oakland as well. Thank you for sharing the side of Oakland that the news networks never show. Yeah, Oakland has its problems, but I don’t think Oaklands problems are that different from any other major cities. I have blown the minds of several out of state friends of mine when I show them the real Oakland
There are so many sides to Oakland!
I've lived by Lake Merritt 27 years and this is a great tribute to our wonderful town. We've got problems but are sick of outsiders and media reducing us to those problems and we're sick of know-it-alls (some among us) who expect someone else to immediately fix problems that are decades in the making. One thing that's missing is the volunteers; tons of people are involved in community safety patrols, park clean up days, organizing cultural events, providing services to unhoused folks, etc. Groups like Community Ready Corps, Trybe, CURYJ and many more serve and transform our communities. And there's always something free happening outside from roller disco at Brooklyn Basin to First Friday Art Walks to the Malcolm X Jazz Festival to the Lunar New Year Parade and much, much more. Visitors should take the same precautions as in any city: be aware of your surroundings and leave nothing in a parked car, but you don't need to walk in fear. Oakland is one of the friendliest places on earth and our motto is #LoveLife.
Rare to see some good representation on the bay area on this site.
Someone had to say something positive!
Man thank you for making this video. I think a lot of us have a hate love relationship with Oakland and it's primarily because of how we knew it growing up and what it's becoming. There's still a lot of good things here too and we still wanna show people what it has to offer.
I grew up in Oakland. This video filled we with nostalgia because I haven’t been there for probably over a year. I miss it. Sure, I had some pretty frightening experiences there but I moved to a “nicer” area and had some pretty frightening experiences here too. So… I don’t even know anymore.
Oakland has always been a rough city. The problem is nobody is doing anything about crime.
Living close to Oakland and watching it morphe over time has been wild but this mskes me wanna give it a second chance and check out some of the amazing stuff.
Check out Aburaya downtown, dope af japanese fried chicken place. Born n raised in Oakland, nice vid.
I've been many times. Great spot!
this is so weird man it's like an episode of my life
As an Oakland native this video made me so happy. Thanks for this.
Glad you enjoyed it!
That’s crazy I’m 4 mins in and I lived in Oakland for 18yrs and I’m surprised never seen it like that
I live in sonoma county, but I always enjoy visiting my friends in oakland. It gets a remarkably bad rap but I've met some of the kindest most creative people I know out there. The community is no joke, and if you're looking to participate, there are some absolutely amazing grass-roots projects and initiatives happening right now. When I think of Oakland I think of art, passion, and good people.
Thank you for showing the other side of the Bay Area. One complaint: you didn't go to the zoo, which has an amazing view and grizzly bears. It was my favorite activity as a kid, especially with the "zoo keys" that unlocked informational audio about the animals. My sister and I would fight about who got to use it. Also Berkely; I know its not Oakland, but Oakland should claim Berkely: especially Cactus Taqueria, that great market on College St., and, of course, Codornices Park and the Rose Garden. Regardless, you have captured some quality, a je ne sais quoi about Oakland that I miss -- and mourn.
As someone who's lived in the Bay area in my entire life I only normally take day trips to Oakland but now I feel quite inclined to move there
It's a complicated place. But there's still a lot to love.
Thank you for this vid. East Bay born and raised, I always love visiting Oakland. It definitely has issues but no large city is perfect...as far as I know.
As someone who has lived in a rural part of the US their whole life. I cannot fathom a sign that says "break ins are common." There is no excuse for that. You would get shot here.
What's the song at 1:02 ?
Thanks for showing the parts of my home that the media ignores. Oakland has so many beautiful spots, but it does have lots of problems as well. It wasn't always this way. We need better leaders to clean it up.
I completely agree
I moved to Livermore from Honolulu, my friend lives in Oakland because it's cheap, he would rather get out of there. But he took me to Oakland and man.. that was the first time I've ever seen prostitutes roaming the roads, like literally standing and dancing in the middle of the road and cars just casually running red lights. It was like being in a GTA server. I kinda doubt people live there because they *want* too.
Many people who live in Oakland live there because they want to. And it’s not cheap at all so there is no reason to live there unless you want to or literally have no money to relocate to a much cheaper city which is basically any city in Nor Cal besides San Francisco.
Oakland is definitely not cheap. Many ppl want to live here especially natives but have been forced to move because of expensive housing.
Adam, come to Alameda. It is great over here, it’s just a little expensive
I’ll be going to Oakland in July, I’ll try some of these spots that were mentioned in the video
My girlfriend lived in Oakland until just recently, right off of Grand near the bonsai garden. I had two different cars stolen right in front of her apartment twice in four months. Second time I got in a fight with the thieves and they broke one of my ribs. I still defend Oakland to out of towners that talk shit.
That is, until the Juneteenth party at Lake Merritt turned into a full on gun fight with like ten people involved in broad daylight. You can keep that shit.
😆
Merica is generally unhinged, not just an Oakland problem
I’ve really enjoyed many of the experiences I’ve had in Oakland, but the city is in a situation now where the odds are too high that I’ll become a crime victim. Not worth it for me no matter how good the coffee, beer, bagel and arts scene is there.
You'll only be a victim if you move like one
Yeah, just don't leave anything in your car, and you should be fine.
Imagine that. No way the owners would ever let that happen, but man would it change things.
Awesome video. You seem to love Oakland and you should explore more. Make a video highlighting Dimond, laurel, fruitvale and other parts of the East. No video is completely accurate without the backbone of the city east of lake Merritt. People like to talk shit for various reasons but it’s actually super beautiful here with our own hidden gems.
Thanks for this! The bay area is great if you look for greatness and horrible if you look for that too. I love living here!
You should go to the Morcom Rose Garden and the Piedmont trail just near the small safeway.
how many drinks did you have bro?
I don't want to talk about it :/
Thank you I live downtown across from Swans. I love the culture and the grit.
It’s crazy how much you’ve captured my experience of Oakland
This guy gets it, great vibes summary, and some new ideas. Thx for making this 👍
Glad you enjoyed it!
I grew up in Oakland, and i dont think there is anything as magical as Oakland. I however, do get very sad about the state of it --crime is high, it can be scary, but among that theres treasures upon treasures of things. I think the Asian food there is top notch better then most, my favorite sandwich spot is Vietnamese at Banh Mi Ba Le, and hole in the wall restaurants like Thanh Ky, Champa Garden, or Cam Houng. The life at night! The music! Everything is so alive! Maybe too alive at times.
Went to Oakland for like the first time ever, might've been once but probably too young to remember. But anyways we were chillin in the car after going for a short walk around and I look behind me and I see the car parked behind us get broken into, dude jumps in through the back window, ran sacks everything and takes off.
First time there remember, Oakland is in fact wild and you are guaranteed to see something wild if you go there for the first time too.
Aay, born n raised in oakland. Love it for Life! Saw a Gil Scott Heron concert at Arroyo Park in 70s. Worked way thru college at Lake Merritt. Drive the Merritt Queen in weekends. Slid down the hills on cardboard boxes near Knowland Park. Yep its a tough place but get off sidelines like Panthers did and make it better. U left out Everett and Jones bbq, and This Is It bakery. We'll know ur really Oakland when u mention all the GREAT athletes, musicians and neighborhood pick up games in the city. Hella facts!
Thanks! There's so much to Oakland
Walking to jack london through Webster is insane seeing that the bridge area over there is so sketchy
I have grown up here and am getting ready to fly half way across the country for college. You have brought back memories I forgot I had at many of these places. Thanks😂😅
If you walk down the creek on the bridge view trail there’s some cool graffiti and an abandoned piano under the bridge. Very cool place. Plus you can look for golf balls from the driving range on the trail
As an oaklander, you sir, know the sauce hahah ty for the great video!
Thank you!
13:27 that is me and my father's business i was so shocked to see it on screen all of the sudden🙏
Cool!
I live in Oakland. I hate hot weather. So, for me, the weather is not "perfect" when it gets into the eighties or nineties. Fortunately, that does not happen in Oakland too often. I prefer the weather in Pacifica and San Francisco.
When I lived in Oakland, I would go to the Kaiser headquarters and go to the rooftop garden. It was such a peaceful piece of sanctuary. 🌳
Amazing video! Thanks for giving nuance to a city of contradictions. It’s only fitting it was recorded on a broken iphone 😭
Also good riddance to Horn BBQ. The owner refused to pay his employees (including my friend!) and then he burned down his building for the insurance money and tried to make it look like vandals. That guy can suck a lemon. As a Texan living in West Oakland, believe me, there’s better brisket out there. And certainly for cheaper.
Yeah, I live in The Bay, and this is pretty accurate. If you do go to Oakland, I have advice. Visit Alameda too! It’s a very nice city right next to Oakland.
I'll be there today, was there this weekend, Alameda is great!
I’ve lived here my whole life and never been to most of the places you tried, cool to have some new recommendations!
Hope you like some of them!
I loved living in Oakland, but there was some truly horrible stuff that went on there. I would love to move back, but now i have kids. I can accept the risks of living somewhere like that, but i can't expect them to.
Thank you for this video!! 🎉
If you're visiting (or living in) Oakland around mid October, be sure to stop by the botanical garden for their Autumn Lights Festival! It includes my personal favorite recurring installations from the Empire of Dirt which you'll be sorry to miss if you like art cars, sci-fi or fire.
I've always called Oakland north of 51st street and above Telegraph Ave to be the Berkeley part of Oakland.
i have a love hate relationship with Oakland, having lived there up until high school, it was fantastic. The amount of diversity in culture allows for so many unique experiences, however, the crime drove my family out. Sometimes we would be scared to go on walks, having passed by numerous drive by scenes. I lives right next to Lake Merit and the Haddon Hill cafe near me would constantly be robbed, a reason we wouldn't go. When I am old enough and have enough money, I am definitely considering moving back just because of how much I love the city
Love hate is kind of the only way to have a relationship with Oakland. Haddon Hill Cafe is in a really nice area. I'm surprised to hear they're crime victims as well.
So is Montclair considered Oakland? I found a couple hundred dollars in cash in a parkling lot on a busy friday night
Respect 🙏🏾