California of course is known for its wine. We, admittingly, are not wine experts but do have a few thoughts to offer: You can do a traditional trip to "wine country" by Napa/Sonoma, and this is a TON of fun. We'd recommend staying there at least one night to fully enjoy it, but you can do it as a big day trip too.

Another way to do it, though, is to go to closer, more budget-friendly vineyards near Livermore, CA that also have great wine (or so we think), tasting opportunities, and lots of rows of grapes to take all your insta photos. To us it feels like the same wine-experience, but all-around is just easier to do. Consider starting at a winery called "Wente" and explore from there. You'll drive down the roads and will find more tasting rooms than you could want.

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For restaurants (unlike wine) we do have some specific recommendations, though, that are in East Bay!

*Consider making reservations*

1. Marafuku: ramen

2. La Marcha: Spanish tapas and paella

3. Kiraku: Japanese

4. Jupiter: wood-fired pizza and beer

5. Casa Latina: Mexican food & bakery

6. Donato & Co: fancy Italian

7. La Note: French breakfast, lunch, and dinner

8. Mezzo: gigantic salads, sandwiches, and soups

9. Raleigh's Pub: American bar food and beer (right next door to Mezzo)

10. Teni: cozy Burmese food