Montana Avenue050

Home to at least a dozen cafés in as many blocks, you'll find great kids' and women's clothing stores, maternity stores, hair salons, yoga schools, two dozen restaurants - from family friendly faves like Rosti's, Spumoni, Marmalade, Blue Plate, and Louise's to trendier spots like Cafe Montana and Le Marmiton - two great grocery stores including Whole Foods (formerly Wild Oats), and assorted furniture stores, quasi-art galleries, and wine shops.

The local movie theater, the Aero, is a true neighborhood cinema running frequent family matinees, often linked with story hours or author events at the children's book and art store across the street, Every Picture tells a Story. Hip children's clothing stores spring up like dandelions, anchored by upscale staple Janie and Jack.

The benefit to parents and dog lovers is that Montana Avenue is a walkers' paradise: strolling, hanging out in the sunshine, snacking, eating, shopping are all nearly mandated. And, since this is a big family neighborhood (albeit an expensive one) kids and their grown-ups are treated kindly.