A Stomach’s Rumble

By Elan Mualen

10:30 a.m. – It’s about that time again…A mere two hours at work and I am already beginning to hear voices. The voices are not coming from my head however, they are emanating from my empty stomach. The consistent calls from my barren abdomen prompt a quick email to my colleagues, ‘It’s about that time again…’ This is all that needs to be said, I know that even though lunch is an eternity away, everyone else has been thinking the same thing since the moment they walked in the door…‘What am I going to have for lunch today?’

Working in Alameda makes this decision a little difficult as being stuck on the island presents limited opportunities for trying something new. There are those days when my co-workers answer my call and venture outside our little bubble for delectable lunch outing.

One of the things I really value about working at Engage is the people. The culture and friends I have made here is what makes my mornings fly by and the afternoon lull come and go; we are a close knit group in a familial environment and it really keeps office life enjoyable. Having said this, lunch is really a time we enjoy spending together, whether it is eating our $1 ‘budget gourmets’ in the lunch room or dining at Scott’s Seafood as a company. Sharing the time together is what makes me look forward to my lunch hour (plus, a good meal never hurts).

As we are nearing one of my favorite holidays (Thanksgiving), I would like to take this opportunity to open up a forum in which we can discuss local restaurants which you frequent on your coveted lunch break. As the resident garbage disposal (don’t let the term fool you, I take great pride in good food), I would like to share with you some of the restaurants I have come to enjoy.

If it is sushi which you seek or just a nice Japanese meal with good service and atmosphere I suggest Katsu Sushi House located at 1465 Webster St in Alameda. For a nice sandwich and some palatable pastries, I recommend Jay's Coffee Teas and Treats located at 1414 Encinal Ave in Alameda. A new favorite of mine, as recommended by one of my co-workers, is Toomie’s Thai Cuisine located at 1433 Park St in Alameda. The food is very flavorful and the pricing is extremely reasonable. These are just a few of the local restaurants we frequent, please feel free to post additions and we can begin a list of local favorites.

Comments

[Becky Frost]

I love Ratto's in Oakland (821 Washington Street). It's the perfect place for a quick lunch, or to pick up some wine and cheese.

[Molly M. Miller]

Well, I have to chime in for Angela's in Marina Village. I think it's one of the nicer places in the area. They always have a good special, and the service is very friendly and attentive.

[Julia Ball]

Of course, I was thinking Ramiros & Sons Taqueria as I was reading your post. And whaddaya know, my mom already said it...

I miss you guys!