I’m often asked for recommendations about all sorts of things ranging from food to personal services.  This list will continue to grow, but here are a few of my favorites.

FOOD PURVEYORS

Whether I’m looking for obscure produce or every day items, Berkeley Bowl can’t be beat for selection and good prices.
http://www.berkeleybowl.com/

Healthy Take-Out

Are you looking for a healthy alternative to grocery store take-out and the same old restaurant meals? Chef Traci Higgins recently opened Lilah Belles at 3801 18th Street in San Francisco. Lilah Belle’s takes pride in offering organic, low-fat, low-calorie, and delicious food for the taking. 
http://www.lilahbelles.com/

Monterey Market

Monterey Market can’t be beat for the best value priced selection of organic produce in Berkeley.
http://www.montereymarket.com/

Philippe Delarue is a talented French pastry chef who recently opened a new shop South of Market in San Francisco.  Drop by and pick up something sinful from the dessert case!
http://www.patisseriephilippe.com/index.html

I love this store for its full selection of Spanish gourmet foods, cookware, and wines. Shop at either their Berkeley or Mill Valley locations.
http://www.spanishtable.com/

Tokyo Fish

When shopping for small dinner parties, I always choose Tokyo Fish for fresh, top-notch seafood. Customers drive from all over the Bay Area to shop at this Albany gold mine!
Tokyo Fish, 1220 San Pablo Ave., Albany, CA 94706. tel: 510 524-7243

WINE

Jones Family Vineyards

Jones Family Vineyards was established in 1995 as a family run partnership with the singular focus to produce the finest cabernet from their proprietary vineyards.
http://www.joneswine.com/

Selling only wines he tastes, Kermit Lynch Wine Merchant has defined the French wine business in California.
http://www.kermitlynch.com/

Peters Family Winery is dedicated to producing unique and exceptional wines of the highest quality, which reflect their single vineyard terroir and meticulous vinification.
www.petersfamilywinery.com

PERSONAL SERVICES

Floral Design

Have you heard about Permanent Botanicals? They are synthetic flowers and trees that capture the spirit of nature yet don’t require the upkeep. You’ll be amazed by how they look real to the eye, have intricate details, and are made from high-quality materials. Permanent Botanicals are an excellent alternative to live flowers but can still be mixed with live floral arrangements around your home. Susan Kennedy Designs offers a wide range of styles and prices for your home or business.
http://www.susankennedydesigns.com/

My back problems have improved significantly since I began treatments with Dr. Daniel Armstrong.  He’s conveniently located in downtown San Francisco. tel. (415) 951-8340
http://www.armstrongchiro.com/

Hair Play

Every chef needs a great hair stylist!  Fritz is a master color alchemist who’s been featured in many national fashion magazines and on Bay Area television shows.
415 550-1656
http://www.hairplay.com/

Personal Trainer

Harold Hatcher has 15 years experience motivating clients to achieve their personal fitness goals. His down-to-earth style and pleasant personality make him a delight to work with every time. He ranked in the Top 5 in several Bay Area competitions during his five yeas of competitive Body Building. Harold recently opened H2 Fitness at 701 University Avenue in Berkeley across the street from Spenger’s Fresh Fish Grotto.
tel. (510) 810-0814 or email: Harold47@aol.com