"The East Bay has many izakaya-style Japanese restaurants, but none that are as much rollicking fun as Kiraku, nor any that serve food that’s as consistently delightful and well executed. Now, the bustling downtown Berkeley spot has shifted to a takeout model, offering a daily-changing menu — featuring things like curry, gyudon, sushi bowls, and a DIY shabu shabu kit — from 5 to 7 p.m. Wednesday through Saturday. Call in to order, or order online." - Luke Tsai