Reviews

78 Pilarcitos Creek Road Half Moon Bay, Ca 94019 (650) 726-2246 santastreefarm.com Description As you might guess from the name, in addition to the 22 fields of Christmas trees at this whopping farm, you’ll also find Santa and his elfin workshop. Plus there are carolers, a holiday train, and a regular puppet shows in the Elves’ Workshop Puppet Theatre at Charles Dickens Square (whew!). We dare you to get more

2250 Cabrillo Highway Pescadero, CA 94044 (650) 326-9103 www.rsvtrees.com Description It’s a family affair at this 20-acre farm by the sea—and it has been for more than 40 years.  But here the trees (they have Douglas Firs, Monterey Pines, Sequoias, Incense Cedars, Arizona Cypresses, and Swift Silvers) are only part of the draw. There’s also a bonfire for marshmallow roasting, tractor rides, and all the fixin’s for wreath-making (including some

2200 Oxford Street Berkeley, CA 94704 (510) 809-0400 gatherrestaurant.com Description Gather has an ultra relaxed, yet upscale vibe and a broad menu that won’t disappoint. Their tasty, sustainable, and cruelty-free eats will please vegans, “gluten-frees,” and meat eaters alike. Read about more things to do in Downtown Berkeley. Directions Take BART to Lafayette station

2626 Bancroft Way Berkeley, CA 94720 (510) 642-0808 bampfa.berkeley.edu Description Here’s a two-for-one: Take a stroll through the well-curated art exhibits, and then tuck into a rare movie screening or catch a cult classic (just be sure to check the daily screening schedule, as the viewing times are subject to change). Admission is only $7, or free the first Thursday of each month. Read about more things to do in Downtown

2106 Shattuck Avenue Berkeley, CA 94704 (510) 883-1568 gelaterianaia.com Description The folks at this super Italian spot make their delicious, creative sorbets and gelatos with fresh, local ingredients like Numi tea, Guittard chocolate, and Blue Bottle coffee. The result is some of the best frozen treats this side of Piazza Navona. Read about more things to do in Downtown Berkeley. Directions Take BART to Lafayette station

2142 Oxford Street Berkeley, CA 94704 (510) 524-0662 viv&ingrid.com Description Viv&Ingrid’s inventory consists of a hodgepodge of luxurious quality wares, all with a unique feminine twist. The shop stocks a wide array of goods for any budget, from John Robshaw scarves and other delicate apparel, to Maison Bouche chocolates and Butter London nail polishes. Read about more things to do in Downtown Berkeley. Directions Take BART to Lafayette station

2036 Shattuck Avenue Berkeley, CA 94704 (510) 526-6080 halfpricebooks.com Description This massive, funky independent bookshop offers not only an impressive collection of good reads, but an extremely friendly staff of fellow bibliophiles. Books are in good condition, well organized, and seriously cheap. Read about more things to do in Downtown Berkeley. Directions Take BART to Lafayette station

2113 Vine Street Berkeley, CA 94709 510-665-8600 vintageberkeley.com Description The space itself, a landmark 1930′s municipal building, lovingly restored to its current incarnation, with heavy wood beams and cool urban concrete, as crisp and refreshing as the many well-priced, unique whites on offer at this unpretentious wine shop. Here, the focus is on good wine, without the erudite pressure that sometimes comes with it. And the selection includes unique varietals