"The most accessible staycation spot for East Bay residents, Lafayette Park Hotel & Spa is like a quick trip to Europe without the hefty price tag. The petite, shallow pool is open to hotel guests or spa guests with a special upgrade (ask ahead). The Park Bistro’s menu celebrates hotel classics with California produce and products (think, Dungeness crab) and can be procured via a dedicated on the pool deck on weekdays, or from your chaise lounge on weekends, when there’s live service. Seasonal salads are a hit, especially when they feature ripe nectarines and strawberries on a bed of feta-labneh cream. Avocado toast features the fruit two ways, schmeared and charred, with blistered cherry tomatoes atop a runny poached egg. Garlic confit deepens the flavor of a levain grilled cheese with white cheddar and swiss, joined by a cup of roasted red pepper or other seasonal soup. Burgers, hearty sandwiches, and protein-driven main dishes round out the lunch menu. At breakfast, a swim can end with any manner of omelet, quiche du jour, or french toast with mascarpone cream." - Laura Smith Borrman
