Patten

Okay, I'm exaggerating a bit, but still.

Home to Patten University, Patten is at the heart of Oakland’s notorious Fruitvale District. The neighborhood however, is not particularly dangerous for the area—although it is certainly not safe. The nearly 3000 residents see about one murder in their small, densely packed neighborhood every year. This is pretty bad by most standards but not by the standards of the Fruitvale District—known for the local gang violence.

Tiny Patten College is a green-lawned little campus near the southern end of the neighborhood. Patten is a co-educational religious school that has been an Oakland fixture since World War II. The University has an on campus chapel and also runs a school just off campus. It is well liked by those looking for a religious perspective in their higher education.

Down by Foothill Blvd., there are some businesses like a Walgreens Pharmacy and a Kragen Auto Parts, some much needed economic stimulus for this downtrodden area, so often overlooked by much of corporate America. The rest of the neighborhood south of campus is mostly made up of older apartment buildings with a some slightly newer constructions dating to the 50’s and 60’s. Everything in this area has a fairly rundown look to it.

There are some businesses along Fruitvale as well, though the neighborhood’s reputation tends to scare most outsiders from dropping by these joints. There is one place I have to mention though. If you are in the mood for a good greasy burger and fries and your buddy just wants some Mongolian beef—or if you just want to find a good filling meal for under $10 (heck, maybe even for under $5 if you order right)—you should give Judy’s Burger’s a try. Really worth it. If you are afraid to hang around because of the neighborhood—take it to go.