Owners Wendy Brucker and Roscoe Skipper have created one of the best neighborhood restaurants in the Bay Area, with satisfying food and first-rate service. The low-slung dining room has an upscale ranch house atmosphere, with modern appointments and a garden in back that makes the dining room feel spacious. The menu changes every three weeks, but you'll always find several extraordinary braised and grilled dishes, and the signature mushroom fritters.
Cuisine: California Specialities: Portobello mushroom fritters with lemon aioli; hot fudge sundae. Seats: 58 Prices: $16.25-$18.25 Parking: Street (generally easy) Vitals: 1539 Solano Ave. (near Neilson), Berkeley; (510) 526-2542. Dinner daily. Beer and wine. Reservations and credit cards accepted.
