OAKLAND. This venerable restaurant has had a following since 1975, and it continues to delight patrons by providing California cuisine with an unmistakable Mediterranean touch. The menu consistently takes advantage of the freshest ingredients of the season and always includes innovative dishes that hone in on a particular region, such as Tuscany or the Basque country. A recent menu included duck, pork cooked in milk with apricots, and squash and ricotta ravioli. Sorbets are superb. The setting, in a lovely Victorian home complete with heated outdoor deck, makes Bay Wolf one of the finest restaurants in the area.

OAKLAND. This Restaurant Row stronghold has a small menu of fabulous French-Mediterranean fare that changes regularly. Upscale dishes like lamb chops, stuffed quail, duck with straw potato cake, and roulades of swordfish with capers and herbs wow patrons. Flavors are pronounced, sauces are rich, and service is perfect. Plus, delicious desserts capitalize on local fresh fruit.

ROCKRIDGE. Sunday brunch is an affair to remember at this favorite neighborhood restaurant. Select a breakfast dish, like a wild mushroom omelet, or opt for midday fare such as house-marinated lamb salad.

OAKLAND. Small plates from the "Mediterranean rim" form the core of Mezze's Californian-influenced menu; expect dishes like tabbouleh and roasted eggplant ­ as well as a fantastic roster of desserts ­ in this cozy, rustic room.

OAKLAND. Two distinct types of cuisine are offered here to satisfy light or hearty appetites. For an exotic sampling of flavors, head upstairs to try island-style cocktails and pupus like lomi-lomi salmon, crab cakes, or shrimp-artichoke dip. Downstairs, the cafe serves Italian appetizers, pastas, and a vast selection of gourmet pizzas; among them are mouthwatering combinations like tomato, eggplant, and feta or ginger-peanut chicken, mozzarella, carrot, and daikon. Pop art and bold colors add to the appeal of the small, fun restaurant.