Gourmet Berkeley Walk

Berkeley is an ideal place to savor the San Francisco Bay Area's delicious food. Park your car in the Gourmet Ghetto — a food lover's paradise since the 1970s — and load a picnic basket with to-go delicacies.

Next, stroll north on Shattuck Avenue for about a mile, past Live Oak Park and houses designed by Craftsman architect Bernard Maybeck.

When you reach Indian Rock, climb the steps to the top for a prime picnic locale and a panoramic view of the cities by the Bay. After lunch, walk down a pretty path to Solano Avenue stores — shopping's a nice reward after your city trekking.

Getting There

From I-80, exit east at University Ave., turn left onto Shattuck Avenue. The heart of the Gourmet Ghetto is on Shattuck between Cedar and Vine Streets. To reach Indian Rock Park, follow Shattuck (don't veer left onto Henry Street).

Eat

Grégoire. French takeout in perfectly picnic-size boxes. For speedy service, check the website for the menu and call in your order ahead of time. $$; 2109 Cedar St; http://www.gregoirerestaurant.com/ or 510-883-1893.

The Cheese Board Collective. Choose from more than 350 cheeses at this worker-owned bakery and cheese shop. Head two doors down to their pizzeria and enjoy live music while you wait for a slice. $

Love at First Bite Cupcakery. Nearly 20 mouthwatering flavors, including lemon-pistachio, chocolate maltball, and matcha green tea. 1510-G Walnut St; 510-848-5727.