BIGMallrat's Editorial Review
Bay Street Emeryville represents the first lifestyle
center in the Bay Area. Instead of a traditional department store,
it has a large cinema and numerous eateries as its biggest draw.
Atmosphere
Reflective of Emeryville's past as a manufacturing
town, this shopping center opted for an industrial look. You'll find
it blends comfortably with the modern storefronts and contemporary
condominiums.
In general, we were unimpressed with the street
down the middle. Far too often we encountered impatient, oblivious,
or inconsiderate drivers.
Stores
Most of the stores are high-end, which saves a
trip in the City. The selection has grown steadily since opening,
including Coach and Lush. Some stores are unique to the east bay,
which makes this center worth
the visit. The cinema is a welcome addition to the lively area.
Food
You'll find a number of good restaurants, mostly
near the theatre. Some notables include P.F. Chang's, California
Pizza Kitchen, Elephant Bar, and Buckhorn
Grill. Arrive early if you want dinner and a movie.
Parking
Unlike most malls, you have to pay
to park. However, validation is available.
Most people park in the
garage near the cinema, but it may be easier to use the
garage (areas C and D) in the northeast building.
Location
Bay Street Emeryville is located at the crossroads
of I-80, I-580, and I-880. Being next door to IKEA, the traffic can
be quite a challenge. The Powell Street entrance suffers from severe
congestion during peak hours and many traffic laws go by the wayside.
Brush up on your defensive driving techniques before making the venture.
Don't forget to use your turn signal when parallel parking. Or, forget
driving altogether and use the free Emery-Go-Round shuttle from the
MacArthur BART station.
History
To learn about the pre-European settlement of
the area, visit the small interpretive center along the concrete-lined
Temescal Creek. You'll find interesting information about the site's
original inhabitants and an example of a shellmound
(a small hill that typically contained buried human remains, shells,
tools, and artifacts of the Ohlone Indians). However, the fountain
that was installed in the shellmound is an artistic liberty. Nonetheless,
you'll also find elegant landscaping comprised mostly of California
native plants.
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