Exploring the Bay Area

Musashi Musahshi is a Japanese kitchen operating in Berkeley, California. The menu offers real variety all the while sticking to the greater category of Japanese food, from many types of sushi and sashimi to noodles, teriyaki plates, and onigiri. The food comes out attractively plated and thoughtfully seasoned. They balance Japanese culinary tradition with affordability, making great Japanese meals in a delightful, budget-friendly way and bringing Japanese hospitality to Berkeley for prices you can afford. The dining room is very cute and has a Japanese feel that I really like. I love the old Japanese posters hanging on the wall; they’re nostalgic and perfectly set the mood for a traditional Japanese meal. It’s a really fun place to eat because it isn’t too formal, and it feels Japanese in a cozy, homey, classic way. It’s just off Shattuck on Dwight Way, but once you’re inside, you feel removed from Berkeley, and your focus shifts to the great Japanese flavors in your meal, as you surr...

Dos Corazones Cafe Dos Corazones Cafe is a small cafe on a corner in Emeryville that will blow your mind. Offering delicious empanadas, pastries, and coffee, it’s a great place to grab a quick bite or refreshment. You can order from the cashier or kiosk at the front. They offer outdoor and indoor seating, plus takeout, and everything is reasonably priced. The empanadas come warmed in a bread-like but crispy toasted pocket, stamped with their flavor. I tried the ham and cheese empanada, which was stuffed with gooey, enchanting melted cheese and thick and savory chunks of ham. It was less than $7, but it was gone quickly because of its very addictive quality! I also was fascinated by the pastries being offered and ultimately indulged in a cherry turnover, which was a real steal at $3.5! It was absolutely delicious—flaky, sugary, and sweet in all the best of ways. It was light and airy and easy to inhale. To go with my morning snack, I also tried a hot vanilla latte. It was a solid latte,...