OAKLAND. At this trendy downtown cafe, a changing supply of local art enlivens brick walls, and modern furnishings add to the upscale ambiance. Gourmet sandwich combinations have garnered a following among area professionals, who line up for baguettes filled with feta, sun-dried tomatoes, and eggplant or turkey with fontina. Grilled focaccia sandwiches and organic salads are available as well.

OAKLAND. This tiny Italian eatery has garnered a loyal following thanks to exquisite fare that includes favorites like lasagna alla napoletana and Dungeness crab tortellini. Dopo doesn't take reservations, so leave yourself ample time to dine.

OAKLAND. Comprised of both a casual downstairs cafe that serves soups, salads, and pizzas and a highly esteemed upstairs restaurant, Oliveto manages to please everyone. The menu at the latter is filled with impressive Tuscan favorites like feather-light potato gnocchi, roasted game, grilled seafood, and perfect pastas. The wine list is impeccable, service is helpful, and desserts are right on the mark. The unrivaled best Italian restaurant in Oakland.

OAKLAND. Two distinct types of cuisine are offered here to satisfy light or hearty appetites. For an exotic sampling of flavors, head upstairs to try island-style cocktails and pupus like lomi-lomi salmon, crab cakes, or shrimp-artichoke dip. Downstairs, the cafe serves Italian appetizers, pastas, and a vast selection of gourmet pizzas; among them are mouthwatering combinations like tomato, eggplant, and feta or ginger-peanut chicken, mozzarella, carrot, and daikon. Pop art and bold colors add to the appeal of the small, fun restaurant.

OAKLAND. With a Chez Panisse alum at the helm, this pizza place delivers crispy, crunchy gourmet pies six nights a week, for which loyal patrons happily wait. If Pizzaiolo's hallmark combinations of inventive toppings aren't your thing, opt for one of the superb Italian entrees.