A family-owned Peruvian rotisserie in the Broadway-Valdez district, known for spit-roasted chicken with ají amarillo, fresh ceviche, lomo saltado, and pisco sours.

A 1926 former speakeasy in Emeryville serving tavern-style Californian fare with a Mediterranean twist. Famous fried brussels sprouts and one of the East Bay's best patios.

One of America's last great piano bars, going since 1933 near Lake Merritt. Nightly live piano sing-alongs, business-card-covered walls, strong drinks, and classic American fare.

A short drive across the estuary, Ark Chinese Restaurant in Alameda serves outstanding hand-pulled noodles, xiao long bao, and authentic northern Chinese and Cantonese favorites.

A family-run Jack London Square deli serving generously stacked sandwiches, Hot Pastrami, Banh Mi, and a standout philly cheesesteak. Phone ahead — they close at 5pm.

Toriano Gordon's bright-yellow food truck near Lake Merritt serving bold, 100% plant-based BBQ and soul food — smoky "brisket," gumbo, dirty rice, and loaded bowls.