A Michelin Bib Gourmand Italian spot near Lake Merritt serving a nightly three-course prix-fixe built around house-made pasta and slow-braised sugo.

Oakland's beloved Temescal mac and cheese specialist since 2011, with a dozen-plus made-to-order varieties, from Mexican Mac to truffle — plus vegan and gluten-free options.

A warm, longtime neighborhood cafe on Park Boulevard serving espresso, smoothies, and made-to-order panini — the spicy Torta Cubana is the local favorite. Free wifi and cozy seating.

Voted Best Beer Bar in California, The Monk's Kettle in Rockridge pairs an exceptional craft beer list with upscale, from-scratch pub fare worth the trip up the hill.

An Alameda burger favorite on Park Street with Food Network cred, serving East Coast-style burgers on challah, Nashville hot chicken, and a chopped NY hero — with a bar next door.

A short walk down the Embarcadero from our front desk, Quinn's Lighthouse serves seafood, pub fare, and globally inspired specials inside a historic 1903 lighthouse on the water.