FALL IN LOCAL LOVE, WITH BERKELEY BUCKS 

Ready for some local love?  Here’s a sweet notion: give Berkeley’s first-ever citywide eGift card, Berkeley Bucks.  They’re valid at more than 90 local merchants and restaurants – many offering exclusive discounts to Bucks cardholders.  Plus, for a limited time those who buy Berkeley Bucks cards valued at $150 or more will receive a $50 bonus card of their own to use through May 31, 2022!  For the updated roster of participating merchants and special offers for Berkeley Bucks cardholders, check here.  Berkeley Bucks are good at any Berkeley business that accepts Master Card and opts-in to the program. No apps, downloads or special technology are required. 

ZINO'S THE PLACE FOR  VALENTINE DREAMS

Love is in the air at ZINO this Valentine’s Day. Located at the Hotel Shattuck Plaza, ZINO's prix-fixe Valentine's Day celebration from Chef Christian Luxton features a stunning three-course menu with optional wine pairings. Menu items include Dungeness crab bisque, Braised Short Ribs, and Oro King Salmon as well as sweet treats like Rose Panna Cotta or homemade chocolate tarte. Vegetarian and vegan options available upon request.  Dinner is $75 per person with a sparkling wine toast, and $30 per person with wine pairings (exclusive of tax and gratuity).  For reservations, call (510) 845-7300 or head to Open Table.

WFH! WORK, PLAY, SAVE AT GRADUATE BERKELEY

What the... still working from home, need a cool new workspace?  Like your extra bedroom (only probably way better), Graduate Berkeley is offering 40% off weekday stays and 20% off weekends to help you refresh your perspective.  Use the code REMOTE when booking.  Just steps from Telegraph Avenue shops and stops, Graduate Berkeley is a postcard of Bohemian chic, collegiate plaids and game day gold. Gather for a post-Zoom bite at Henry’s; it’s the perfect hub for conversation, camaraderie and robust exchange of ideas and intellect. The Work from Hotel offer is valid for new reservations through May 31, 2022, must be booked by Feb. 15, 2022, and based on availability.  

ACCI PRESENTS THE BLACK FEMALE GAZE, NOW THROUGH FEB. 26

This month, North Shattuck's historic  ACCI Gallery presents "The Black Female Gaze," an exhibition celebrating the 25th Anniversary of the Richmond Art Center's Art of the African Diaspora.  “The Black Female Gaze” showcases the visions of four ACCI artist members, Nyya Lark, Suzane Beaubrun, Xan Blood Walker and Riquelle Small, rendered in their own chosen creative mediums. 

NORTH BERKELEY FOOD TOURS BACK ON TRACK

The cradle of California Cuisine and farm-to-table eating (thank you Alice Waters), North Berkeley is home to both long-established culinary icons and emerging edible enterprises. This food-focused area continues to dish seasonal, organic fare and operates sustainable business practices that benefit farmers, restaurant workers, and the food system.  Touring this district is a foodie fantasy, and the hip and knowledgeable guides of Edible Excursions make it all come true.   You probably won't need a dinner plan after this flavor-filled afternoon! Tours are offered Thursdays and Saturdays at 11, book online here.  

BLACK VINES: A TOAST TO BLACK WINERIES AND DIVERSE ART® 

Black Vines is the event of the year to celebrate  Black artists, musicians, and  featured Black winemakers and vintners.  This year's 11th annual event takes place Feb. 26 at CIEL Creative Space in Berkeley.  Pictured is Phil Long, winemaker at Longevity Wines, 2018 Livermore Valley Winery of the Year, who will be one of the featured vintners pouring at Black Vines.  Tickets available here. 

DOWNTOWN BERKELEY PIZZA LOVERS MONTH 

February is PIZZA Lovers Month in Downtown Berkeley! Check out independent, locally-owned participating pizza-slinging restaurants and use Berkeley Bucks for special deals.