Comprising Moraga, Lafayette, and Orinda, Lamorinda is a beautiful region within Contra Costa County and San Francisco’s Bay Area. There are plenty of ways to keep busy when living in Lamorinda, with dozens of popular attractions, shopping and dining destinations, and outdoor recreation nearby.
Whether you’re in the mood to visit a biergarten or you want to sample the cuisine at an authentic French bistro, Lamorinda provides a bevy of opportunities to entice locals and tourists alike. The following is an overview of some of the best local hotspots, including spas, nightlife, shops, and restaurants.
Our Favorite Shops
Most of the best local shopping is located in Lafayette, considered the region’s retail center with many high-end shops lining downtown. Shop home goods, decor, apparel, and more at the many upscale boutiques and locally-owned stores. White Barn Home is perfect for finding stylish, country decor, while Diablo Foods is an enduring neighborhood grocer with some of the greatest wine selections you’ll ever see at a grocery store. La Fiesta Square provides the best that Lafayette has to offer with its idyllic shopping plaza featuring upscale retailers, premier services, and restaurants.
The curated high-end women’s clothing boutique Luck is ideal for anyone looking for the latest fashion-forward luxury trends. In Orinda, Sanvitalia Home and Garden sells thoughtful decor and gardening necessities for indoor and outdoor living. Wrap up your shopping trip with a visit to Zoonie’s, a classic candy shop that will satisfy any sweet tooth.
Best Local Restaurants
In recent years, the Lamorinda region has steadily transformed into a vibrant and desirable destination with plenty of acclaimed restaurants and places to shop. The quieter surroundings make places like Lafayette and Orinda especially appealing as you can easily stroll down a charming streetscape and have access to the best of the Bay Area cuisine, including farm-to-table dining, sidewalk cafes, and cozy bistros.
Dozens of talented chefs now call Lamorinda home and have aided in turning this region into a haven for gourmands. From classic French bistros to homey neighborhood watering holes, there’s a little bit of everything in Lamorinda.
- Reve Bistro: Chic, upscale French bistro that brings a Parisian vibe to the community
- The Cooperage: Casual grill and neighborhood hangout known for burgers, steaks, and rotisserie chicken
- Batch & Brine: This award-winning restaurant is inspired by generations of family recipes and combines bold flavors with authentic cuisine
- Postino Restaurant: Warm and intimate Italian venue serving traditional pasta dishes paired with acclaimed wines
- Sideboard - Congenial kitchen and coffee bar with espresso and pastries
- Genuine Goodness - Grab-and-go smoothies, salads, sandwiches, and other healthy fare
Breweries & Bars
There is nothing better than relaxing with friends over a few pints of ice-cold beer or a creative cocktail. Lamorinda is home to modest taprooms and bars, such as The Fourth Bore and the long-established Round Up Saloon. Moraga features one of the region’s only breweries and a genuine Moraga Biergarten experience at Canyon Club Brewery, a low-key tavern serving house-brewed and guest beers alongside southern-style dishes.
Hotels & Spas
Experience a French Country escape in the east bay with a stay at the idyllic Lafayette Park Hotel & Spa, a 4-star French-chateau-inspired hotel just outside of the Lafayette Reservoir Reservation Area ranking #1 in the region.
Boasting elegantly furnished rooms, spacious event spaces, and enchanting courtyards, the Lafayette is a sophisticated hub providing easy access to the area’s best restaurants, shops, cultural attractions, and wineries. Get the most out of your time in this beautiful region by indulging in luxury accommodations and setting your body at ease with a day spent spa, ranked one of the best day spas in San Francisco East Bay.
