"Greetings from Chez Panisse, the Berkeley institution that’s considered the godmother of the farm-to-table movement. Yes, it’s incredible, but have you met Chez Panisse Cafe, located just upstairs? It’s got the same hyper-seasonal produce, and, most importantly, the experience comes at a more reasonable price (it's a la carte, unlike Chez Panisse’s $175-per-person set dinner). So go in on the pizzas topped with fruits and vegetables at their absolute peak, order the bright pink salmon that grew up on the shores within driving distance, and rendezvous with the ripest beet ever. Stained glass, copper accents, flower arrangements, and white tablecloths add romance to the always-crowded place. Get here for special celebrations, fancy lunches, or simply to feel rich. " - Julia Chen 1, Lani Conway
