Oakland is attracting attention for the new restaurants and nightlife scene emerging across the city. In 2011, the city of Oakland attracted more than nine million visitors, city spokeswoman Sue Piper said.
The New York Times chose Oakland as a top destination because of what the publication considers the city's renowned chefs such as James Syhabout of Commis Restaurant on Piedmont Avenue and Daniel Patterson of Plum and Haven restaurants near the Uptown area and Jack London Square, respectively, which continue to attract more diners and fellow chefs to the city.
Much excitement also surrounds the 2009 reopening of the historic Fox Theater, attracting performing artists and visitors alike to its Uptown Oakland location.
To see the NY Times' full list of 45 must-visit destinations in 2012, click here.
