Best Restaurants for a Quick Bite in El Cerrito

I love this place for lunch. I take people here all the time to introduce them to this hidden gem of a place.

We'd been wanting to return to for some time. One word: FANTASTIC! Millennium is a VERY hot spot and it can be challenging to get a reservation on a day and time that suits you if you don't plan far enough ahead of time. PLAN EARLY if you can. I had a day/time in mind but had to adjust a bit, but got a spot at a "High Top" (tall table with chairs). When we arrived, the Maître d' showed us where we were "scheduled" to sit. It was close to the front door on a breezy winter night. IF we were at the other end of this longish table, it might have been okay (not perfect). We asked the Maître d' IF there were any options. He reviewed the options and said he could place us in the patio or at the bar. We went to the patio, which is more or less sheltered, but not fully enclosed. There was ample heating (as far as I was concerned) but it didn't suit my wife. We went back to the Maître d' station and he reviewed the situation anew. A colleague reviewed options with him, and Voila.....we were fortunate to get a very nice table for two! Thank you Millennium and staff for taking the time to accommodate us! Stars for service: 5 Attentive but not intrusive - timing was perfect throughout Stars for Food: 5 Creative, sumptuous and plentiful Stars for Ambiance: 5 Comfortable, unpretentious, interesting I hope this review helps you decide if Millennium is a place you want to experience. - Graystroke

A large busy open dining experience before a show is a great way to start the evening. Staff is very friendly & helpful. The menu is sparse but the fish/sushi is fresh but expensive. But you can have a quick bite instead of an entire meal. After dining you line up to find your seat. I like the smaller venue, not a bad seat in the theater, as opposed to thousands of people. I recommend Yoshi’s for a fun night out in Oakland. Take the ferry, drive and park in the huge parking garage next door to Yoshi’s. The Average White Band brought back many memories and continued rocking out the crowd with their soulful band.

The food was very good. If you are looking for pizza, there are lots of choices. Not so many non-pizza ones. Our waiter was very attentive and knowledgeable about the food and drink options. It was noisy but not so noisy that we couldn't have a good conversation. Our only complaint was that our table was in front of the door so every time someone came in, we got hit with cold air.

We come to Heroic Italian before seeing our play at Berkeley Rep and are always so glad we have chosen to eat here. The salads (this time we did the California Caprese salad - sooo good,, and enough for 2) are always hearty and original. The pinsas are a favorite -- we love the crispy crust and the fresh toppings. Serving is prompt and friendly. (and Berkely Rep patrons get a complimentary glass of Prosecco.). No wonder we keep returning!