North of downtown Berkeley, this area features some of the best in fine cuisine and gourmet shopping in the city. Locals looking for food that is a cut above head here for the best in ethnic and local dining. The keystone is definitely Chez Panisse, known throughout the world as the place to eat in the Bay Area. You will also find some of the best tapas can be found at Cesar, sushi at Toyo and authentic Thai at Cha Am. There are also several vegetarian options, like the Japanese Cha-Ya, and great breakfasts and lunches at Smokey Joe's Cafe, to name just a few.