Island hop: antique discoveries are just the beginning in Alameda

Sunset, August, 2005 by Lisa Taggart

Thousands swarm the island of Alameda's monthly flea market (officially called the Alameda Point Antiques and Collectibles Faire) for the Bay Area's best vintage shopping. And a new series of talks for collectors adds to the momentum. But few enthusiasts know there's more snacking and shopping to be had on Park Street, just a short drive from the market. It's a discovery akin to Bauerware in the $1 box: You can connect with the past in a delicious way at the state's oldest continuously operating bakery, Boniere, or head down the street for home-made ice cream. There's also a super skin-care boutique, a new Italian restaurant, and a pretty little flower shop--lots of good reasons to linger on the island.

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SHOP Alameda Point Antiques and Collectibles Faire. WHAT: More than 800 booths offer a vast variety of antiques, from garden furniture, dishes, and lamps to whimsical objects, tools, and games. Everything is at least 20 years old. WHEN: First Sunday of the month (Aug 7, Sep 4, Oct 2). HOW MUCH: $15 6-7:30 a.m.; $10 7:30-9 a.m.; $5 after 9 a.m. WHERE: Alameda Point, Main St. and Atlantic Ave.; www.antiquesbybay.com or 510/522-7500.

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Sumbody. WHAT: Handmade, eco-conscious, scented skincare products, from lotions to bath bombs. WHEN: Open daily. WHERE: 1350 Park St.; 510/523-2639.

Mints. WHAT: Flowers, cards, and pots, in a tiny new shop. WHEN: Open daily. WHERE: 1336A Park St.; 510/749-0683.

HEAR ArtiFacts. WHAT: Talks on collecting specialties, from Craftsman furniture to Elvis memorabilia. WHEN: 3-5 p.m. first Sunday of the month. HOW MUCH: $7. WHERE: 2700 Saratoga St., in the old Alameda Naval Air Station's restored art deco movie house; 510/835-6187.

EAT C'era Una Volta. WHAT: New eatery has classic Cal-Ital menu. WHEN: Lunch Tue-Fri, dinner Wed-Sat, brunch Sun. HOW MUCH: $$. WHERE: 1332 Park St., Ste. D; 510/769-4828.

Boniere Bakery. WHAT: Sumptuous cakes and tortes at a 127-year-old bakery. WHEN: Mon-Sat. WHERE: 1417 Park St.; 510/522-0110.

Tucker's Supercreamed Ice Cream. WHAT: Tasty creamy treats for hot afternoons in a historic building. WHEN: Open daily. WHERE: 1349 Park St.; 510/522-4960.

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INFO

To reach Alameda Point, take Webster Tube and turn right at Atlantic Ave. For Park St. from Alameda Point, take Atlantic east; turn right at Webster St., left at Encinal Ave., and left at Park.