Cafe Okawari in SoMa is our go-to spot when we want an incredible katsu sandwich.

For excellent wood-fired pizza, cocktails, and wine, head to Damnfine in the Sunset.

Henry’s Hunan is a restaurant in Chinatown for those who love spice.

Bund Shanghai in Chinatown serves classic Shanghainese dishes like xiaolongbao and braised pork belly in a casual space.

Shakewell is a Mediterranean spot in Oakland with good small plates.

Canela is a tapas and wine bar that happens to be one of our favorite spots in the Castro.

Gum Kuo is a Chinese barbecue spot in Oakland Chinatown with great congee and all the usual roasted meats.

Nopalito’s takeout window in the Mission is a great place to swing by before a day in Dolores Park.

Masabaga is a new spot in Uptown Oakland for excellent deep-fried toro burgers.

Enssaro is a busy Ethiopian restaurant in Adams Point serving spiced, simmered, and sautéed meats and vegetables.

Vientian Cafe is a neighborhood Laotian, Thai, and Vietnamese spot in Allendale.

Clove and Hoof is a butcher shop and restaurant that does big burgers, big fried chicken sandwiches, and big Philly cheesesteaks.

Casual, welcoming Geta is one of the most affordable sushi spots in Oakland.

Burma Superstar in Oakland’s Temescal makes flavorful Burmese dishes - and a life-changing tea leaf salad.

Aburaya in Downtown Oakland is a punk-inspired space serving excellent Japanese fried chicken.

Order rum cocktails and skillet-fried chicken at this laid-back Caribbean spot in Old Oakland.