Latest & Greatest in the East Bay
Michelin Once Again Gives Commis Two Stars
Oakland’s Commis remains the only East Bay restaurant to earn a Michelin star, and in fact, it was awarded two of them for the 15th time. The Piedmont Avenue restaurant has been on the coveted Michelin list since it opened in 2009, and its consistency is a key ingredient in its success.
Though we don’t normally mention San Francisco restaurants, a three-star ranking by the Michelin Guide certainly deserves some attention. And really, it’s not that far to San Francisco, so if you’re looking to find out what truly high-end dining looks like, check out Atelier Crenn, Benu, and Quince.
Of course, Thomas Keller’s the French Laundry retained its three stars, and though the drive is a little further, it too is well worth the trip for those with the resources and desire.
In the meantime, though, check out Commis, if you haven’t already. Two Michelin stars are awfully hard to get, and you can even park for free.
Crush’d Wine Bar and Kitchen to Debut in Danville
The chef behind Pleasanton’s excellent Sabio on Main has taken over the old Albatross space on Railroad Avenue (right behind Cocina Hermanas), but the focus for Crush’d Wine Bar and Kitchen will be more about the 24 wines on tap—yes, on tap—than fine dining.
Francis X. Hogan will complement the wines with an expansive charcuterie menu, cheese, and small plates, and the ribbon-cutting ceremony is set for Thursday.
Calicraft Adds Heretic Brewery and Distillery to Its Growing Empire
The Walnut Creek craft brewery, with its taproom in Shadelands, is continuing its expansion with the purchase of Heretic Brewery and Distillery in Fairfield. With new locations scheduled for downtown Walnut Creek and Davis, the addition of Heretic’s existing taproom in Fairfield is just more good news for Calicraft Brewing Co.
You Win, Heads or Tails, at New Berkeley Barbecue
So you’re once again stuck on Interstate 80 in Berkeley, with traffic backed up for miles for no apparent reason. You could just wait it out, hoping that semi won’t crush you, or you could just take the University Avenue exit, head up to San Pablo, turn right and land at Heads and Tails Barbecue.
Not only will you find the usual barbecue treats, in sandwich or full-plate form, you’ll also discover a full bar, with plenty of craft cocktails to choose from. Now doesn’t that sound better than a stop-and-go freeway?
Diablo Magazine, Clay Kallam