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OAKLAND......Oaktown, the other city by the Bay.
Lots to eat, see and do
- 740
- 1127
46 Places
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Rinky’s 5-star review: There are FREE tours of the Oakland Harbor that happen in the summer months. http://www.oaklandmagazine.com/East-Bay-Events/index.php/name/Port-of-Oakland-Free-Harbor-Tours-2016/event/14828/ Even though they are not well publicized they fill up quickly. The reservation process is a little tricky. The tours are only on two Friday nights a month. You go to their website usually on the 1st Monday of the month (next tours are in September and October) at 7 PM and sign up for a specific date. You can reserve a spot or up to 4 people. Here is the link for SEPTEMBER http://www.portofoakland.com/event/port-oakland-free-harbor-tours-2016-5/ Here is the link for OCTOBER http://www.portofoakland.com/event/port-oakland-free-harbor-tours-2016-6/ When you go to the websites you scroll down to the bottom of the page and click on the date (in blue) that you'd like to reserve. Once you have your reservations you'll be able to print them. WHEW !!!!! Enough of the logistics and on to the review! Things have changed since earlier harbor tours, Instead of a worn out ferry we got to ride on a beautiful vessel, the "Merlot Commodore." The main desk has two small outdoor decks and a large plush indoor area with linen topped tables and chairs. They sell refreshments but I didn't check it out. They have free cups of iced water, The two bathrooms on this level were very clean, roomy and upscales. I can't recall having been on any ferry or sailing vessel with such nice "heads." We sat in the back outside deck which was a long bench for 8-10 people. The problem which we didn't realize till later was that the speakers weren't working so we missed some of the narration given by the Community Relations Manager. Once we found our way inside we heard a lot of information about the cranes, containers, ships, harbor, the harbor plan. The passengers had a lot of great questions. We saw some cranes in action picking up containers. Mr Rinky though there was a big suction cup involved when actually the end of the crane was a big "claw" that picked up the huge containers. I was surprised to learn that those huge ships with the humongous containers have just a 24 hour turn around time to be unloaded and on their way back to their home ports. Some of this may seem kind of dull and boring for those of you into more lively things but we thoroughly enjoyed it. We were lucky to have a perfect night--clear with lovely views of SF and Oakland at sunset. Plus we got to go under the Bay Bridge several times. Lovely cruise, friendly staff, awesome narrator, beautiful night all for FREE. What more could one ask for? Well we also got free drawstring Port of Oakland bags with straps for wearing on your back. Yay! -
Rinky’s 4-star review: We must have driven by this place a thousand tines but never stopped to check it out. We stopped by recently to take our friend shopping. Although she is 91 her mind is so sharp. She hasn't driven for awhile but she knew exactly how to get there. There are two stores in this plaza. One is a kitchenwares, housewares, clothing, bedding store with lots of stuff in between. You can find rice cookers but small to enormous, slippers with Snoopy, cats, dogs, flowers on them. Chopsticks, household gadgets and gizmos, dishes, platters, and more. Our friend MG was looking for a flat mesh strainer for cooking with soups. We had originally stopped at BB &B but their strainers were $10! MG found the perfect one among a selections of dozens of shapes and sizes for $2! There were also beautiful Korean dresses which I personally love because like me they don't have waists. Beautiful colors, so feminine.I was tempted to buying one but where and when would I ever wear one? The second store has everything Korean. The store is neat, clean and super well organized. They have take out food in plastic containers---chicken, banchan (?) side dishes, and lots of other food I've never seen before, They have a small pastry counter, a fresher than fresh seafood section, a produce section, lots of canned and packaged goods with writing mostly n Korean or otter Asian languages. If you're a Kim chi fan (which I'm not) they have the largest range of Kimchi products from a demure size to a humongous size that easily a couple of gallons! Even if you don't know what 99% of the stuff is, it is still fun to browse! -
Rinky’s 5-star review: Although I've never been crazy about the cold, concrete architecture I love this museum because: --Great family programs! Over the years we've been to events celebrating Chinese New Year, Winter holidays, Black History Month, Dia de los Muertos....music, crafts, movies, and more --Terrific exhibits like Gold Rush, Ruth Asawa, Forbidden city, annual Dia de los Muertos, (Although the Disneyland exhibit with all it's hype was disappointing --should have had more reminisces (sp), interactive exhibits) --Unique cafe serving real food (although a bit pricey).....salads, pastas, and stuff for picky kids --Fun events: Fungus Fair, Wildflower Show --Fantastic school field trips.....(ie Gold Rush & more) --Koi pond is the highlight for younger kids....We spent hours here when our son was a toddler. --Rooftop garden fun for all ages for lounging and etc --Great gift shop for fellow gift shop fans! (Books! Great kids stuff! tee shirts, jewelry, a lot of stuff you don't need; but you'll want) Best time to go is First Friday of the month. when they're open in the evenings....not free but less crowds and they usually have live music and dancing and often movies and/or lectures Second Sunday of the month (check website) is FREE! --Cheap underground parking lot ...but warning can get filled during field trips and big events! -
Rinky’s 4-star review: As part of my Endless Birthday Celebration I had my husband take me to the zoo. We hadn't been there for a few years and I was happy to see the changes. The trees and shrubbery seem to have grown so the Children's Zoo is a much greener space. We got there in time for the Otter feeding. These cute river otters stole my heart with their antics and flawless swimming maneuvers. I was happy to see that they revamped the concrete "lily pad" stepping stones across the pond in the Children's Zoo. We spent many a visit with our son stepping, hopping and slipping into the pond. We didn't try it this time since my balance is nonexistent.. We also lions, tiger and meerkats--oh my--along with orangutans, chimpanzees, rabbits, lemurs, tortoises and more. This is a perfect sized zoo for taking young children, especially toddlers. I know there is controversy about zoos but many of these animals may not be better off in their native habitat that may be threatened by poachers, land grabbers or other conditions. For it's size the Oakland zoo tries to give roaming space to it's animals. CHOO CHOO CHOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO! Adjacent to the park is a kiddy park with rides geared for young fun thrill seekers. There are baby rides that consist of wee cars and fire trucks that go in a circle; a small carousel'; cups that spin; a mini mini roller coaster and really cool biplanes that kids can maneuver up and down. But the best ride is the little train that travels around the zoo and on the outskirts of the zoo. It currently has added the Australian Outback feature with emus and wallaroos roaming free in a huge area. I love any train ride and this is one of my favorites. I have and will never "outgrow" my love of trains! -
Rinky’s 4-star review: We hadn't been here since they first opened. I remember liking their bagels but hadn't made a return trip since the difficulty in parking in this neck of the woods. We stopped by on a recent trip to Kaiser Oakland. I had the veggie bagel--a toasted bagel with cream cheese, cucumbers and sprouts. I chose the garlic bagel which may not have been the best choice to eat before a doctor's appointment. Son is a purist--he had a toasted plain bagel with cream cheese. We also got a half dozen bagels to go. We enjoyed all the bagels immensely. They are made the traditional way, boiled then baked. So nice to rediscover this place since Noah's Bagels have declined over the years--soft and smoothy with no flavor. Staff is friendly. -
Rinky’s 5-star review: Last night we saw "Spinal Tap" at the Paramount. I LOVE LOVE LOVE these guys and if possible I'm s bigger fan than ever! We half expected the Paramount marquee to read, Puppet Show Unwigged and Unplugged What a dream come true-to see them with hundreds of other devoted and enthusiastic fans. And the audience was composed of all sorts of folks---age range from 6 to well over 70. Hipsters, well dressed folks, distinguished looking guys and gals, hippies, heavy metal dressed people, schlubby folks like me and the hubby and some people you'd least expect to be fans. I know there were lots of other Yelpers too. Belated "hi" to you all They sang for 1 hour and 45 minutes and sang practically every song they recorded and will record. Plus they interspersed the songs with fantastic videos. Here is a link to the youtube video with Lego guys playing "Tonight We're Gonna Rock It" http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zTxzvsELdDM&feature=PlayList&p=56C348952B1AE3C4&playnext=1&playnext_from=PL&index=9 After the video played Michael McKean cracked, "Can everyone raise their hands in the air like this (making his hands in the "U" shape of the Lego people's hands)" Some people didn't get it or couldn't see his hands, but this remark put me in hysterics! And when they played "Stonehenge", my favorite, the audience went wild! On the video screen there was a tiny Stonehenge with two large Troll dolls dancing around it! These guys may be 25 years older than when their movie, "This is Spinal Tap" came out but they still totally rocked out! They are fabulous musicians! That Michael McKean plays the harmonica and keyboard in addition to the guitar! It was just the three of them, no combustible drummer. It was funny during the Q & A portion towards the end of the show this sweet guy came up to the mike and said, "Do you guys need a drummer? I got my drum set in my car. It'll only take a minute to get them." I am still basking in the afterglow of the BEST concert I've ever been to! And to add icing to the cake I got a baseball jersey with Spinal Tap on the front and #11 on the back. Beyond cool! Thanks Michael,Christopher and Harry for making us Bay Area Spinal Tap fans love you even more! Oh yes the Paramount Theatre is the best venue to see a concert/ Out of this world decor! Comfy seats with unobstructed views! When these two tall guys were sitting down in front of us I groaned,"Uh-oh. there goes my view of the stage." But no problem, once they sat down--my view was still perfect! We got there super early--I wanted to make sure I could buy a teeshirt. We were treated to the most delightful and eclectic music ever: doo-wop, yodeling song, 40's music, lots of Laurel & Hardy/Hal Roach music by the Beau Hunks (I know this because we have their CD), contemporary stuff whose artists I can't name and more. I'm sorry to hear about the problems other folks have had. I hope The Paramount has resolved them. The ushers and staff were all very sweet and friendly. -
Rinky’s 5-star review: Still alive and kicking due to the marvels of Western medicine and the loving care I've received from the Oncology staff, especially the nurses in Chemotherapy. I always feel welcomed ,safe and cared for. They have a difficult job which they handle with respect and concern. Thanks again and forever for taking care of me and my fellow patients. -
Rinky’s 2-star review: Oakland Airport USED to be great, but since it's been under construction it seems very makeshift. I never thought I'd ever write a bad review of this airport but they managed to turn a perfectly good airport into a dismal mess. I know they are "remodeling" but ..... 2 stars is generous. Trying to figure out how to get into the terminal from where our "off -site" parking shuttle dropped us off involved maneuvering a precarious labyrinth of planks and concrete. All you can think of is "Lawsuit." We flew to Burbank in January and to Seattle this past week on Southwest. We did curbside check-in both times and luckily had a very short wait for that. ******************************************************** Note: in April 2007 we flew to Washington DC. The security line snaked around and around the baggage claim area. I wished there was someone from the Oakland Airport to direct people, no one knew where the security line ended since it was soooooo long. The line did move quickly to our surprise. Luckily we always arrive at the airport 2 to 3 hours early. *********************************************************** But once you go inside the terminal it is kind of chaotic: The security check point seems a little disorganized. I wish they would tell you when the first check your ID's and boarding passes that you need to show them AGAIN once at the actual security gate. When you get to the gates you have to remove your shoes and put everything in bins which would seem like a simple enough process if it weren't for some of the impatient passengers behind you shoving you or your bins....H-E-L-L-O folks--even preschoolers know how to wait for their turns. Once you get through the gates there are only 3 chairs for people to put their shoes back on.....what's up with that? The so called "construction" involves paneled walls that make the aisles very narrow. People were constantly bumping into each other or getting pissed off because there wasn't enough room to pass people. Other problems included: Fewer bathrooms. Our closest bathroom was 8 gates away! Mediocre food places. Pleasant enough folks working at the available food places but Terminal One's choices are not great. The moving ramp from Terminal One is out of order. Not a problem for some folks but for disabled and semi-lazy/grouchy/difficult in walking folks like me; it's a pain If you follow the signs (when you return ) to get to Southwest's baggage claim it is a long, circuitous walk. If you ignore that sign and go down the main hallway it is a short walk. Speaking of baggage claim isn't it interesting how they go through elaborate procedures at the security gate, yet when you go to baggage claim there is no one to check your bags against your baggage claim receipts? They USED to check now they don't. A lot of picky complaining, I know but it is rather frustrating. Good points--the staff from the skycaps to the shop workers to everyone else seemed to be far more friendly and patient than I would be under those circumstances. We park our car at Expresso Parking (offsite in San Leandro)--only a few minutes away : http://www.yelp.com/biz/Ek90OEQaIeRhAH3PN41bjA?hrid=ady4iVwzAbWtlUc3POkP_A The airport parking has always been pretty "iffy" even before 9/11; plus the shuttle to the terminals doesn't run very often. -
Rinky’s 5-star review: 2013 festival We hadn't been to the Oakland Greek Festival for years. I think the last time we went the admission fees were kind of steep--$15? Now the regular admission is $6 for adults and free for kids 12 and under. Today (Friday) is was FREE from 10-4pm Sunday evening is free from 6-9pm. There is free parking in the nearby Mormon Temple parking lot with a free shuttle. The food booths use tokens $1 each. I thought the food was reasonably priced although unfortunately very little if you're a Vegan like Mr Rinky. We got rice ($3); Greek Salad ($3), herbed marinated chicken (my dish-$6). I also got some spanokapita ($3) to go. There were so many other food offerings, lamb or chicken kabobs, fried calamari, french fries, fish, dolmas (with meat), moussaka (with meat), an intriguing dish called flaming cheese, ice cream, frappes and more. I got two orders of the Loukoumades--fried morsels of dough covered in honey syrup and ground almonds. When I asked the women serving how many pieces came in each order.....she smiled and said, "Oh as many as I can put in here." She proceeded to fill two overflowing bowls (I got a double order) into the carryout carton. They also had a cafe with pastries, coffee, tea, expresso, cold drinks. I wanted to get one of every dessert but I settled on four of them: Butter cookie dusted in powdered sugar A Fried piece of dough dipped in honey syrup. (Gooey, crispy and wonderful) Some delectable pastry covered in toasted shredded coconut Another butter cookie that was mouth watering good. Water, Zero one drinks, OJ, sodas were $2. There also sold beer, wine, coffee, lattes (Don't know the prices) We ran into some good friends and got a chance to catch up. We feasted on our desserts and commented on the glories of fried dough around the world. The music, dancing and other festivities began after we left but will continue on Saturday and Sunday. There were also several booths selling jewelry, clothing, scarves, books, paintings, knick knacks and lots of other merchandise. This festival is super well organized and the amount of work that must go into the set up, shopping & preparing & cooking & serving the food, booking the entertainment, scheduling workers and so much more is mind-boggling. If you can't make it to the Oakland festival, May is the month for festivals at other Greek churches---hope you can make one or more! -
Rinky’s 4-star review: When I was at the Elite event in Jack London Square Eugene L and I were talking while we waited for the doors of Steel Rail Cafe to open. Eugene said uf he didn't get enough to eat he was going to Chinatown. I asked him what his favorite Chinese restaurant in Chinatown was and he answered, "New Gold Medal." So flash forward ONE day,,,,,,we took our friend, MG, a "younger than springtime" senior and fellow foodie to eat dinner there. The ambiance is plain and basic--nothing ritzy which is fine with me, We were handed paper menus and given some Jasmine tea. There are 312 menu items most of which we can't eat. MG let us pick the dishes: We had: Plain Rice Porridge---very satisfying (They have many kinds of meat and seafood choices) Crispy noodles with vegetables--tasty Kung Pao Tofu with Vegetables---tasty--lots of veggies, nice spicy sauce but no peanuts Chinese Chicken Salad--it was an enormous serving. It consisted of iceberg lettuce with fried chicken chunks (tasty) but made with a mayonnaise dressing? I like to try Chinese Chicken Salad at different restaurants. I hate to brag but I make a kick ass vegetarian Chinese "Chickenless" salad and out of the many restaurants I've tried only Great China in Berkeley makes a very tasty version. Plain steamed rice The portions were all much larger than most Chinese restaurants---you really have to go here with a large group (maybe 6-8 people+) We kept eating and eating and there was still so much food left! The service was okay but seemed to get friendlier when the owner or manager made the rounds asking people how they liked their food. Thanks Eugene L for the tip! -
Rinky’s 5-star review: This review is just for the Christmas light displays! Yes lights in a cemetery! The 9th annual Hoiday Circle of Lights From Dec 1, 2015-Jan 1, 2016 Time: 5-9pm http://www.mountainviewcemetery.org/events/9th-annual-holiday-circle-lights/ They are near the entrance but the best way is to park your car and walk around. Reindeer, train, penguins, Santa, North Pole sign, lighted trees and more. See my photos. Sometime I will also review the wonderful historical tours. -
Rinky’s 5-star review: Peralta Hacienda Historical Park is a six acre community park located in the Fruitvale area of Oakland. I just learned of this place during a recent Spring visit when they were having a special event. From their website: The Peralta Hacienda Historical Park is one of the most significant historic sites in the East Bay, It was the first European settlement after the establishment of Mission San Jose and as such is the birthplace of Oakland. The focal point of the park is the 1870 Italianate Victorian farmhouse known as the Peralta House. A city and state landmark, the house is also listed in the National Register of Historic Places." The house and park now offer youth and educational and arts programs, performances, exhibits, and community events. There is a historical wall with murals depicting indigenous peoples' lives, a playground and a garden with plants and flowers and how they were used in the lives of native peoples. Hours are limited (except for playground). Call for details. More of my photos coming soon.
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Rinky’s 5-star review: What a great discovery in Jack London Square! I knew the general vicinity of SRC but as soon as I saw Eugene L I knew I was in the right place! Mr Rinky and I were the 4th & 5th in line even though we got there at 5:45. This event was smallish (less than 45 people) so it was cozy and fun. We were greeted at the door by Nicque--what a great way to start the evening! Steff, our current CM was there--warm and friendly as always, mingling with everyone! There was live music with steel drums, a tv screen with the John Candy movie, "Steel Running," as well as great food and drink. The tables had bowls of spiced nuts and plantain chips which the staff constantly replenished. The staff served us the food which I really appreciated rather than standing in lines as we have at other Elite events. All of the staff at SRC were so friendly and welcoming. We started off with shots of very tasty roasted yam, ginger and coconut soup. Vegan too. The staff gave vegan Mr Rnky a large mug of the soup with toasted bread when he asked the server if he could have more soup since there wan't much on the sampler menu or him to eat.....so kind of them. Our second course was The Melt Sandwich Them Belly Full With Plantain Chips ,Rotisserie Chicken , Roasted Red Peppers , Caramelized Onions , Pepper Jack Cheese , Arugula , Jerk Aioli , Texas Toast ........yummy! One of their staff members passed around a small butter churner. We all go to have a turn churning it. The butter is then spiced up. Dessert was Jamaiican style spice cake...yum! They also passed out these cute and festive Jamaican Ginger People cookies--yum again! There were lots of drink choices but I only had the ginger beer and a hot chocolate. We had the Secret Santa gift exchange. I should have taken a photo of all the gifts, especially since we were sitting right next to them. What a treasure trove of all shapes and sizes. Mr Rinky got a big box of cookies. I got a terrific book (actually one I've been wanting)--- "The Foodspotting Field Guide" which not ply lists a variety food including borekas, Momo, Injera, Tanjine but also many dishes I;ve never heard of. Each food has a page next to it--where you spotted it, your comments (looks like, smells like, taste like, etc). So BIG thanks to the Yelper who gave me this--a perfect gift! Thanks to Steff and Nicque and any other Yelep staffer I may have missed, the friendly Yelp crowd and the fabulous staff of SRC for making this a night to remember. -
Rinky’s 4-star review: I've eaten here at least 5 times since my original review. I always get the blueberry waffle, eggs and hash browns with a hot chai (bfast $6.95; chai$2.50) Blueberry waffle-perfect; served with a scoop of butter Hash browns -crisp and tasty Chai-perfect and huge! -
Rinky’s 4-star review: I am a big fan of this library. I've been around the block for so long that I remember the old Rockridge Library that was located near the BART station. I don't know what it's like to work here but I love the architecture inside and out. There are lots of windows and many actually open allowing fresh air to come in. (What a concept, huh)? Having worked for many years at another public library that underwent an extensive remodel and ended up with a crappy building that had more than 100 mistakes and absolutely no windows that open. The Rockridge library is not huge but there seems to be ample space for their collection. There are public Internet computers, public bathrooms, plenty of chairs to sit in, and (to me) an inviting ambiance to look for books, sit down and read, study and hang out with your kids. Each time I go here I wonder why I don't go more often. It is far from our home but very close to Kaiser Oakland where I go to frequently. Next time I'm in the area I will definitely make use of my OPL card. -
Rinky’s 5-star review: Piedmont Grocery is a gem. Although the prices are on the expensive side this store is very well stocked: Excellent bread selection including Dave's Killer Bread,many other brands, as well as freshly baked bread and baked goods from Acme, Semi-Freddi's and other local bakeries Phenomenal hot and cold food deli which includes a wide selection of green salad fixings; salads with Kale, Quinoa and other intriguing ingredients; mashed potatoes; fried buttermilk fried chicken; pulled pork; mac n' cheese plus dozens of other selections for the vegan to omnivore connoisseur. Their veggie samosas (which aren't always available) are some of the best samosa I've had-- and I've had dozens! I am very fond of their seasonal goodies selection's to find items like Valentine peeps dipped in chocolate---so tempting. Great choices for baking including various flours (Ie. gluten-free) and a wonderful assortment of baking chocolate and chocolate chips.....one of the few store that carries GUITTARD (not to be confused with the inferior Ghiradelhi) chips. Nice selection of cheeses, dairy products, lactose fee products, ice cream, sorbet, etc etc Kudos for the nice choice of Green products. Since I don't eat seafood or red meat I can't make any comments about their butcher counter. Produce looks very fresh and inviting. Didn't notice how much was organic. From the outside it seems very small but once you're inside you'll be totally amazed. We love stopping here after my regular Visits to Kaiser for a splurge -
Rinky’s 4-star review: Yelp recently held an Elite event here. We rarely go to Jack London Square but now I may have a reason to return. Whenever we've walked around JLS especially at night---most of the restaurants seem to be lous, d and boisterous.....Steel Rail seems to be more low key. Steel Rail Cafe opened earlier this Fall and I wish them the best of luck. Although the inside is smallish there is a nice patio (with heat lamps) and strands of lights making it inviting at all hours. We had a sampler menu (see the Elite event details) It was great! http://www.yelp.com/biz/elite-event-steel-rail-cafe-oakland There seems to be a large selection of alcoholic drinks, non-alcoholic drinks, coffee, tea, hot chocolate. Their menu seems to have something for everyone....They open at 8am and have breakfast items from oatmeal to pastries to egg dishes. Lunch and dinner offerings include soup, salads, sandwiches....and the prices are reasonable.....most food items are from $6-10. The most expensive item I saw on their menu is $11. Another BIG reason for liking this place is that the staff is super nice and welcoming. Please give this place a try---you'll be glad you did -
Rinky’s 2-star review: The four of us were seated near a window. We had a late lunch in honor of L's b-day. The view was lovely and the ambiance is very sunny and welcoming. Our server was very friendly but we had some issues with the service. We had to ask for water three times before we were finally served. We had seriously thought that we were all going to put our hands around our throats and act out a choking motion but we resorted to our refined behavior. We were asked if we wanted bread and we said, "Yes" but never got it. We did enjoy our food. But it was pricey. Not the kind of place for a casual lunch, at least not for people with average incomes. We ordered: Hummus--very flavorful; lemony with a smooth texture and just the right amount of tahini. Eggplant sandwich on a toasted panini; flavorful with avocado and served with french fries. The french fries were so so. Ahi Tuna Sandwich---`my friend loved it Blackened Chicken Sandwich---my friend liked it Pasta with salmon--my friend loved it. Side of onion strings--very tasty--maybe the best part of the meal,, but the portion is teeny. Two types of lemonade that were delightfully tart. I have to agree with another Yelper's comment about no refills. The actual amount of drink is small since there is so much ice in the glass. We all enjoyed our food and the lovely view but were put off by the inattentive service. We had a late lunch so it wasn't busy yet we felt very neglected, especially since the surrounding tables with different servers were attended to. No one checked in with us to see how we were doing. I don't think I'll return anytime soon. The high end prices and the lackluster service supersede the good food (at least the dishes we ordered were good; can't speak for the rest of the menu) and the beautiful views. Again I'll agree with many of the other Yelpers---with so many complaints about the poor service , isn't it time to take even some small steps to improve it? -
Rinky’s 4-star review: We came here during the first week. Didn't get a chance to go into the cat room since the reservations were full. Did get a look at their cat room---what a delightful space for the cats--lots of fun climbing structures, room to run around. The cafe had lots of coffee/tea/hot beverages and a small but great selection of pastries. I look forward to coming back with some cat friends and a reservation to play with the kitty cats. -
Rinky’s 5-star review: This was actually my 2nd visit. The first challenge is finding this place. There's a sign that marks the narrow side patio. The inside consists of U-shaped counter. We decide to sit a table in the patio Out sweet server brought us water and menus Shortly after we ordered we were served free bowls of yummy lentil soup. We three loved it but Mr Rinky thought it was too salty. We ordered: Fafafel wrap-yum! Chicken schwarma plate-yum! Comes with pilaf rice and salad. Cheese chicken sandwich with added onion rings-yum again The food was great but the free baklava sample size bites we had were FANTASTIC! Mmmmmmm so good! I'm usually not a baklava fan but these were delicious!! They were so good i ordered 4 to go to ostensibly give them to my friend DC but being the devious person I am I ate one of them.... DC and family loved them too! Great food! Great prices! Great staff!! We'll be back! -
Rinky’s 3-star review: This used to be our go-to-place when we lived in Berkeley. My co-workers and I used to order take out when I worked in the Lake Merritt area. We have been less than wowed by the food lately.......different chef? Also the same server who was quite icy to me in the past (for who knows why, I've never done anything to her) gave everyone in my group menus except for me. When I ordered using Mr Rinky's menu she didn't look at me. She served me last---I hope she didn't spit on my food. It is so puzzling why she behaves this way. Not to "brag" but I am always super polite and friendly and always leave a 20% tip. It seems she may have mistaken me for another Asian woman who was rude to her? If we do go back I'll make it a point to ask for another server or just leave if she shows up. -
Rinky’s 3-star review: Quality of food inconsistent over the years. Even though it is close by I have never been wowed by this place. Seems like the food was served lukewarm for many years. I've gone here twice this year and once last year and the food temp seems to be hot, like it should be. Had the Tofu Scramble once--overwhelmed by the sun-dried tomatoes. I had the scone with lemon curd the other day/ It was cold and hard. On a previous visit the scone was served soft and warm. Seems to be overpriced for mediocre food. Most breakfasts hover in the $10 and above range. I just was looking over my La Note (Berkeley) menu and the prices are high there too but their food is fabulous. 4 stars for staff. Friendly and welcoming. 2.5 stars for ambiance. Usually I like the kitschy stuff but the restaurant itself seems to be cold and barn-like and "echoy" with their linoleum floors---hard to hold a conversation. 2.5 for food. Food is just okay, Portion size average. Only one slice of mediocre toast with breakfast. Overpriced. 3 stars average. Not my first choice for breakfast. -
Rinky’s 5-star review: FIVE STARS: Great vegan pizza, yummy cheese pizza Huge, wonderful plate of salad with romaine & other veggies with a tasty honey mustard dressing (Under $3) Addictive breadsticks....a huge bowl (Under $3) Sunny, open dinning room. TWO STARS (minor gripe) Crummy, uncomfortable wooden chairs (at least for short people like me) The seat part slants downwards towards your butt. Try to snag a bench at the booths (which were full when we came in) SIX STARS We had one of the world's greatest wait staff (Barb?) She was the only "server" in the room. The place was at least 1/2 to 3/4 full and she effortlessly served all of us food and drinks with a smile. And she checked back with everyone several times to make sure our food was okay and we had enough water, drinks, napkins, etc. -
Rinky’s 4-star review: Those of us in the Albany area are suffering from the closures of two beloved eateries--Zaki Kabob and Cafe Sophia. We are searching for some new places to get a yummy falafel fix. (Troy is great; Zand is thumbs down) What a gem! This very well stocked market also features a cafe. The market is well stocked with Middle Eastern food items as well as many other grocery items such as Bob's Red Mill products, bulk items, baked goods, spices and many many other items. I just took a quick walk down the aisles. The deli set-up is a little confusing. You look at the menu on the board above the deli counter. Then pay for the items to the grocery cashier. The menu has something for everyone Vegan to Omnivore. You can order wraps, plates, sides of hummus, babaganoosh, falafel, etc We ordered the chicken schwarma plate and a falafel wrap to go plus some cashew baklava. There are some tables to dine in. What I hella love about Oakland is the diversity of people, not just by race, but by age and working types. A few people in suits; others in jeans, sweats, families, couples and misc folk like me and the son. Prices are very reasonable. The staff especially the cashier were friendly. I had a bite of the cashew baklava-yum! I had a small bite of the falafel wrap---tasty! Son polished off the schwarma plate and the falafel when we returned home. Definitely worth another visit or two or more. -
Rinky’s 5-star review: I love this Lanesplitter. We ate here for lunch recently. I had the slice and salad combo (veggie ). Mr Rinky and son shared a vegan veggie and side salad. We also had an order of bread sticks. Their salads are great--besides romaine there are bean sprouts, red onion, carrots, kidney and garbanzo beans plus other stuff I've forgotten. I had the honey mustard dressing, Mr Rinky had the vinegarette. We loved everything we ordered--quite delish! We always love the staff there--casual but friendly and efficient. I had to laugh when our sweet server brought us our water with a straw for me and not for the guys. I asked her a few minutes later how she knew that I liked straws but my guys didn't. She just laughed and said after working there for a few years she noticed that all women want straws and about 99 % of the guys don't. The cooks are so cool too. They greeted us when we came in and we're so appreciative of our thanks when we left. -
Rinky’s 3-star review: hmmmm....just came across this article about the palm trees.... Apparently there will be a total of 30 palm trees (Costing $15,000 each) by Spring 2014 http://sanfrancisco.cbslocal.com/2013/10/24/new-15k-palm-trees-being-planted-on-bay-bridge-approach/
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Rinky’s 5-star review: How is it possible for me to have lived in the Bay Area for years and years and never set foot in Lois the Pie Queen? Why did I choose a hot day for my first visit? My auntie and I (my monthly breakfast bud) decided to try it out. What a a great experience! Our server was very sweet and friendly. We instantly felt welcome! I ordered the Mexican Scramble (jalapenos, onions, cheese and salsa on top. Served with hash browns and yummy biscuits. Auntie ordered the spinach cheese omelet. Our server asked how we wanted our hash browns cooked-regular or crispy. We both chose crispy. They were crispy but I guess I am an extra crispy'/crunchy girl. They were still tasty! No pie this time. Too warm to stuff our faces. The interior is very inviting. Lots of pix of celebrities. But what I LOVED most was the GIANT clock on the wall and the GIANT signs for the restrooms and for asking you to wait to be seated. See my pix. I finally feel that I have been officially initiated into the Bay Area club. Now if I can just those other landmark restaurants! -
Rinky’s 4-star review: I'm not sure why I haven't updated my review since we go here at least every month or two. After our beloved Vegie Food closed after more than 25 years we feel a little lost. China Wall does feel the gap a bit. There was a recent change of ownership. A friend who works by thinks the quality had gone down but we haven't noticed it. We usually have lunch here. We always have to order the fried won ton and green onion pancake which are so yummy. We usually ordered the "chicken" (gluten) with broccoli and brown rice. Mr Rinky usually orders a e veggie combo. I've also ordered the sesame "chicken" or the Mngolian "beef." Both are satisfying as well. Service has always been quick and friendly. -
Rinky’s 4-star review: We've been to Messob three or four times, The food is very good but we still are diehard Cafe Colucci fans. The vege combo is tasty and filling. The veg sambusas are yummy too---served pipping hot, The staff as mentioned in other reviews is super nice and attentive. They make you feel as if you are having a meal at their home. The food is slightly spicier than I prefer but I am a wimp when it comes to heat. Nice to have a reliable place to eat when we're cruising around Piedmont Ave -
Rinky’s 1-star review: Never again. I hadn't been to a Noah's in years since their bagels are subpar but I was in the neighborhood and needed something for "breakfast." What a mistake. First of all the servers are possibly among the rudest people I've encountered. When it was my turn I greeted the woman with a cheery "Good Morning." She glared at me and snarled, "What do you want?" I put in my order and a few minutes later the second woman snarled, "Sesame bagel with cream cheese" and threw it on the counter. Look I understand that they may not get paid well or that the work is tedious but give me a break. I'm not expecting them to be my next best friend but i do not appreciate being treated like a piece of s***. Here's the kicker. Two of their friends walked in and the two staffers broke into the biggest and warmest smiles then returned to snarling at the other customers. And their bagels suck. They used to be the BEST bagels in town when they began in Berkeley years ago.
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