• Home
May 9, 2013 8:00 AM EDT
0
Here Are The BEST Kid-Tested, Mother-Approved Spots In The Bay
Fullscreen

1 of 10

Eva

Names: Eva Kolenko and Parker, 5 months
Gig: Photographer

Spot #1: Boot And Shoe Service
Why She Loves It: "I won't apologize for becoming a bit of a coffee snob. With so many amazing, local indie roasters I think it's allowed. I've written about Boot And Shoe Service more than once on my blog because it's been my go-to spot for years. Now that I have a baby, the cafe is where I hang out the most. In the mornings, with the kiddo in tow, it's super easy to find parking and pop in for a quick Four Barrel coffee and a house-made pastry. On days when I'm itching to get out of the house, I will wait for Parker's nap time, tuck her into the car seat, and grab the laptop for a little work session."
Boot And Shoe Service, 3308 Grand Avenue (between Lake Park and Santa Clara avenues), Oakland; 510-763-2268.

Spot #2: Oakland Mountain View Cemetery
Why She Loves It: "You might think I'm weird or that it sounds morbid, but one of my favorite places to walk with Parker is the Piedmont Cemetery. My friend Lynsey turned me on to this place years ago, and I'm so grateful she did. It's gorgeous! Plus, pushing a stroller all the way up to the top of the hill is a pretty decent workout, the reward being the stunning view of the Bay. Surrounded by tombstones, in such a tranquil setting, definitely inspires reflection. It's a great reminder to cherish all that is important in your life and let the rest go."
Oakland Mountain View Cemetery, 5000 Piedmont Avenue (at Ramona Avenue), Oakland; 510-658-2588.

Spot #3: Marzano On Park
Why She Loves It: "My husband and I have become regulars at Marzano On Park. We used to frequent the bar, but now we come early for dinner and are grouped with the rest of the families in the recently completed, second room expansion. It's perfect for kids — lots of space for car seats and strollers — and the staff is super easygoing. For the grown ups, it means adult cocktails and some stellar food! We go at least twice a month!"
Marzano On Park, 4214 Park Boulevard (between Edgewood Avenue and Hampel Street), Oakland; 510-531-4500.

Photos (from left to right): Courtesy of Eva Kolenko and Oakland Mountain View Cemetery.