Welcome to Orinda
Come for the views, stay for the friendly warmth.
Sheltered by the scenic, oak-covered hills of Berkeley and Oakland to the west and bordered by Lafayette to the east, the city of Orinda is a spacious landscape of natural elegance that has a rural, small-town vibe. Its proximity to Oakland and other larger, urban cities—including San Francisco—has made Orinda an ideal location for commuters.
Though the town was settled early on as part of some of the original Mexican land grants, it remained a spot for summer homes and ranching until it grew in popularity upon the completion of the Caldecott Tunnel. Orinda was officially incorporated in 1985, and the city has since blossomed to nearly 20,000 residents.
The residential areas of Orinda are mainly composed of close-knit neighborhoods set among the rolling hills. Varying in style from magnificent Spanish colonial revival style homes, houses that feel more like vacation retreats, and spacious bungalows lovingly restored and updated, the homes in Orinda are built to take advantage of the spectacular panoramic views.
What to Love
People & Lifestyle
The residents of Orinda enjoy a peaceful lifestyle of luxury and are just a short drive from several big cities, beaches, and state parks. The city is dedicated to providing aesthetically pleasing retail and commercial areas, in addition to entertainment, and the community as a whole is one of friendliness and warmth.
Dining, Entertainment & Shopping
There’s nothing if not an abundance of excellent eateries in Orinda, and when you’re here, you’ll want to become acquainted with all the incredible options. Famous for comfort foods like their savory fried chicken, prime beef, and classic Italian pasta,
Casa Orinda is a must-try. Here, you can sit amongst the Western decor and feel drawn back in time, or order a drink at the mahogany bar and settle in for good company and cheer. Indulge in elevated pub fare like skillet-made buffalo mac and cheese or juicy prime burgers at
The Fourth Bore, a taproom and grill that has the best brews and live music.
Take your pick from the vast menu at
Village Pizza, a local favorite for hosting parties whose menu includes everything from pizza and rigatoni to hamburgers and baby back ribs. In the mood for something organic and locally grown?
Piccolo Napoli is an upscale Italian restaurant where the menu rotates seasonally, the ingredients are sustainable and locally sourced, and the options include things like Neopolitan pizza and refreshing takes on Italian-American classics.
Once you’ve had your fill of great cuisine, venture out to Orinda Theater Square and experience scenery that feels pulled straight from a movie set. The theater itself sits like a lit beacon, its neon marquee reminiscent of an older, classic time period even as the location features newly released movies. The shops are nestled along the streets are family-friendly and local, and several lifestyle services—including a gym and spa—are offered here as well.
Things to Do
Part of Orinda’s charm is the plethora of activities and experiences available to the community. Whether you’re an outdoor enthusiast, looking for some exclusive club recreation, an arts and culture connoisseur, or simply looking for a little fun, Orinda has everything you need.
Thursday nights, residents are treated to the presence of
Taste of the World Food Trucks and the opportunity to partake in a community atmosphere while choosing from five food trucks, a beer and wine truck, and even a truck dedicated to dessert. The event usually also features live music and family games as well and is a perfect way to brighten up your week. Theater aficionados and those who love the performing arts will love the beautiful
Bruns Amphitheater. Set in Orinda’s scenic hills and home to the performances of
California Shakespeare Theater Way, this venue brings the arts to life with its variety of shows.
Schools
Orinda is home to many excellent schools. Top educational opportunities include:
- Glorietta Elementary School, K-5, well-rated public elementary school
- Wagner Ranch Elementary, K-5, well-rated public elementary school
- Sleepy Hollow Elementary, K-5, well-rated public elementary school
- Orinda Intermediate School, 6-8, well-rated public middle school
- Miramonte High School, 9-12, highly-rated public high school
