Gale's

Gale's Restaurant is the definition of a neighborhood spot. Regulars are greeted at the door by name, often by owner Gale Kohl, who opened the restaurant as a tribute to her late brother. The bistro is decorated with reminders of the Old World; a bust of Michelangelo's David looks out over the kitchen as chefs twirl strands of fettucini and sautée broccoli rabe. Northern Italian food is the highlight here, and you'll find classic favorites on the menu that appeal to everyone: chicken piccata, caprese salad and clams linguini. An extensive wine list features both California and Italian varietals, and if you're going to stay a while—which you most likely will—a bottle is the way to go.