Tell Us: Does it Matter Where College Avenue's Patrons Are From?

Rockridge area Yahoo groups have recently shown concern that College Avenue is becoming too much of a "destination" restaurant area as opposed to a more low-key retail serving neighborhood residents.

They feel that more expensive businesses are moving in and replacing those that residents can actually afford to patronize often.

"High-end food versus mid-range shops or services, like "Heartfelt" closing and Trappist moving in," one reader said. "Pretty clear that it's about 'owners/landlords are getting super greedy.'"

What's missing from College Avenue's retail mix? 

Commenters said eateries like Southie, Wood Tavern and the Ramen Shop seem to be doing well despite the higher prices. However, others felt that if the area continues to boast expensive prices, these restaurants will eventually go out of business.

"If there ARE too many expensive restaurants they'll close and cheaper ones will appear," a commenter said.

Another commenter felt irony in that "the people who live in Rossmoor come to College Ave., 'cause they had the fat retirement investments." They are able to shop at these high-priced places whereas the locals are struggling to do so, a commenter said.

Bakesale Betty, located nearby on Telegraph Avenue in Temescal,  seems to be drawing in customers from other cities, according to another commenter.

"One Saturday I button-holed customers waiting in line at Bakesale Betty. The vast majority were from other cities, including SF, who had heard about it on the web."

Several people posting on Yahoo groups mentioned the need for a nearby hardware store — the nearest are on Grand Avenue and Martin Luther King Jr. Way.

Rockridge Patch reported earlier this week on the area becoming an even bigger foodie mecca. We asked folks: Can a neighborhood have too many restaurants?

One reader showed support of the thriving businesses despite patrons coming from near or far.

"Unfortunately, some complain endlessly about traffic and parking and whatnot, but increased congestion is a necessary consequence of economic success," he said.

We want to hear from you...

What type of shoppers is College Avenue attracting? Where do you think these folks are coming from?

Do you think businesses are focused more on people from neighboring communities rather than those who live in Rockridge? Tell us in the comments section below.