Photo from YelpThe proximity of this new ramen spot to BART makes it super convenient to stop in before heading home from work (or a night out). Soup bases include chicken, creamy chicken, miso, and vegetarian. Deviating a bit from the norm, Ushio ramen aims to appeal to non-traditionalists by adding things like Brussels and eggplant to their vegetarian broth. Lots of wonton options too.
The ambitious couple behind Shiba Ramen, located steps from Oakland’s City Hall, opened this location in early 2017, not long after it opened its space in the Emeryville Public Market. They’re also the duo behind the popular sake wine bar, The Periodic Table, also in the Emeryville Public Market, which has gotten lots of accolades for its clever chemistry theme, a nod to their prior careers. When they set out to create Shiba, they intentionally designed the logo (after their two dogs) and menu to be more approachable and less traditional Japanese.
One of the owners of this popular four-year-old ramen spot is an alum of Chez Panisse so it’s a given that ingredients are hyper fresh. Care and detail are also exemplified in the assortment of California-driven toppings. Noodles are made in-house, and appetizers, rice dishes, and desserts are just as creative as the ramen. We’re talking ramen bowls like Yuzu Duck Shoyu Ramen with smoked breast, braised leg, cardoons, shoyu marinated egg, leeks and mizuna. If you don’t like lines, go during off hours.
Explore early California history at the Casa Peralta and San Leandro History Museum.Inside Casa Peralta, built in 1869, you’ll find antique furniture, original bookcases, dress closets and portraits of the Peralta family.Tours of Casa Peralta are available on Saturdays and Sundays between 11am and 3pm, based on docent availability. Call (510) 577-3975 first to confirm tours are available.
With its large covered patio and alley location, Café Claude exudes vintage Paris. The all-day menu means you can pop in for some sustenance while shopping in Union Square or before taking in a nearby performance. There’s also live jazz on the weekends if you want to make an evening soaking in the food and atmosphere. Look for classic French dishes like mussels, steak and fries and trout amandine.
Residents of Glen Park rely on this charming French restaurant to welcome them, make them feel at home, and offer up a delicious meal in the retro dining room. It’s just fancy enough for a special occasion meal (and the table side service is a bonus), but still casual enough to pop in on a weeknight when you crave bouillabaisse, steak tartare or beef bourguignon.
With blue- and white-checkered tablecloths and bistro chairs, this Parisian-theme bistro would be at home on the Champs Elysees, but lucky for us, it’s only a quick walk from the Lafayette BART station. Enjoy classic cozy French fare like French onion soup or confit duck leg with potatoes. The wine list includes classic French varietals, offered by the glass and in 375 ml carafes. It’s a lively atmosphere, appropriate for the whole family and a popular spot for locals.
Custom-built bikes and primo customer service are staples of Mission Bicycle, where you can see your dream bike design turn into a reality. Staying true to its Valencia Street address, it’s also a great spot for gift ideas for your favorite bike enthusiast. And for those soon-to-be bike enthusiasts, rentals are on hand for trial spins.Photo courtesy of Mission Bicycle.
Situated directly on Market Street, Huckleberry Bicycles has aided many a downtown commuter through unforeseen flat tires, broken lights, bent frames and more. Being near city shopping, it’s no surprise this bike stop dons its own beloved selection of bike apparel and shoes in addition to the usual mechanical musts. Photo courtesy of Huckleberry Bicycles.
This neighborhood favorite has been around with owner Paul Olszewski at the helm since pre-hipster 1985. Another longtimer alongside Olszewski has been Valencia Cyclery manager/mechanic Peter Shao, who’s been keeping local wheels turning for 30 years. These familiar faces continue to make available (and maintain) a slew of bike styles that run the gamut, including BMX, foldable, electric, kids and road bikes. Photo courtesy of Valencia Cyclery.