There sandwiched between the ever-so-distinct cities of Oakland and Berkeley, sits the widely transformed City of Emeryville. In 1927 former Chief Justice, Earl Warren, infamously coined Emeryville as the “rottenest city on the Pacific Coast.” During the Great Depression an abundance of speakeasies, racetracks and brothels turned Emeryville into an industrial wasteland of lawless entertainment and attraction.

Running along the Northeast shoreline of the San Francisco Bay, Emeryville -- now an eco-friendly and eclectic metropolis -- shows few signs of a risque past. Droves of walkers, joggers, bikers and boaters come together at the Emeryville Marina to enjoy views of Angel Island, Alcatraz and three...

There sandwiched between the ever-so-distinct cities of Oakland and Berkeley, sits the widely transformed City of Emeryville. In 1927 former Chief Justice, Earl Warren, infamously coined Emeryville as the “rottenest city on the Pacific Coast.” During the Great Depression an abundance of speakeasies, racetracks and brothels turned Emeryville into an industrial wasteland of lawless entertainment and attraction.

Running along the Northeast shoreline of the San Francisco Bay, Emeryville -- now an eco-friendly and eclectic metropolis -- shows few signs of a risque past. Droves of walkers, joggers, bikers and boaters come together at the Emeryville Marina to enjoy views of Angel Island, Alcatraz and three renowned bridges.

Although Emeryville shed its rebel reputation long ago, the town’s historic speakeasy buildings are still in popular demand. Restaurants like Rudy’s Can’t Fail Cafe and Townhouse Bar & Grill satisfy adventurous diners with classic American cuisine and historic tales. A bit of a risk-taker yourself? The famous Oaks Card Club is a favorite amongst local gamblers. Don’t worry too much about the hand you were dealt, as fans of the Club suggest cashing in on the joint’s hot pastrami sandwiches instead.

Urban, hip and riding the waves of reinvention, approximately 90 percent of Emeryville’s population resides in newly spacious lofts and condominium complexes. Places like Green City Lofts, Liquid Sugar and Pacific Park Plaza demonstrate the community’s impressive strategic planning and development. Emeryville housing plays to the preferences of many, from the sharp lines of modern style to elegant luxury. There’s even the eco-minded green building taking place. Emeryville is a city tending to those who seek variety.

Take advantage of the easy and effective Emery Go Round. The city-sponsored shuttle bus service creates a no-hassle approach for BART, AC Transit, Amtrak, Zipcar and CarShare commuters. The Golden Gate Neighborhood is also home to Pixar Animation Studios, Novartis (formerly Chiron), Bayer, LeapFrog, Sendmail and MobiTV.

Additional Emeryville properties for sale include: Vue 46, Bay Street One, Glashaus, The Terraces, City Limits, Watergate, Park 1500, San Pablo Heights, Blue Star Corner and Elevation 22.

Written by Vincent O’Connell, McGuire Real Estate