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Berkeley

• Fish and Bird Izakaya: Opened in 2021 during the pandemic, this Izakaya serves cocktails redolent with references to Tom Waits lyrics. Fish and Bird, after all, is a reference to Tom Waits, who i understand is a favorite of Chef Asuka Uchida, who heads the kitchen at Fish and Bird. If choosing to sit outdoors, one can enjoy the Yakiniku. Designed for 2, the yakiniku consists of Miyazaki A5 wagyu (rib cap), Imperial wagyu (boneless kalbi, outside skirt, rib eye, and tongue), seafood (skewered large prawns and diver scallops), and seasonal vegetables to be grilled over binchotan charcoals in a Shichirin Hida Konro (a traditional Japanese hibachi grill made of porous clay). The Fish and Bird Japanese Curry is also something not to miss. Slightly spicy, dark and thick, it is a satisfying compliment to the Chicken Katsu and rice. The Green Bean Fritters, green beans in a light tempura batter, is addictive. In a way, this is a historic dish. “Tempura” is a Japanese corruption of the Latin “Tempora”. “Tempora” refers to the Catholic days where Portuguese missionaries avoided meat and enjoyed peixinhos da horta (breaded and fried green beans). The menu changes seasonally, but make sure you save room (and perhaps inquire and pre-order) the Basque Burnt Cheesecake. It is light, creamy, and served with sliced seasonal fruit and a dollop of light fluffy whipped cream. It does and will sell out. No dress code, reservation is very very strongly recommended.

• Top Dog: Yes, it is just a hot dog stand. Yet it is not just any hot dog stand. It is Top Dog. It is an institution and a landmark. A slice of Berkeley’s unique personalities and spirit that endures. Also, importantly, it serves up an addictively delicious and freshly grilled frankfurter tucked in a flat top browned bun. Most importantly, it is also open late (till 0200), something to keep in mind when working very late in lab or doing research on the properties of libations in less salubrious institutions. No dress code, but do try to be dressed. Take aways mostly but there is a counter to rest one’s elbow on. Ketchup, mustard (yellow, brown, deli brown), onion, and sauerkraut are available freely from dispensers (when not in a pandemic) or provided if asked (during a pandemic).