Marc 49

Foodies are in love with the Temescal, with the likes of Bakesale Betty, Dona Tomas, Sura, and Lanesplitter serving everything from gourmet sandwiches and Mexican cuisine to pizza and Korean BBQ. Marc 49 adds yet another reason to visit the “Gourmet Ghetto” of the East Bay, with wine “Flights” and Italian-inspired tapas to enjoy in a stylish yet comfortable ambiance.

“I want to live here,” your friends may declare as you steer them from the front room with low wooden tables, hardwood floors, red accents, and a bar in the corner to a cozy, light-filled outdoor patio to a narrow hallway leading to the lounge-like back room with wicker chairs and tables made from wine barrels.

The wine Flights, which consist of two-ounce tastes of three to four wines, are a great way to sample more than one vino of choice. Whites include the Four Sisters, a spicy, fruity Sauvignon Blanc with a crisp aftertaste, the Butterfield Station, a Chardonnay with hints of vanilla and fruit, and the Benvolio, a crisp, full-bodied Pinot Grigio. Reds include a great selection of Cabs, Syrahs, Zins, Pinot Noirs, and Merlots. Beer, sangria, and champagne are also on the menu.

Prices here are relatively affordable – Flights currently range from $11 to $14, and most tapas are under $10. Portions are small but savory – this place feels more bar than restaurant, with an appetizer course to help you enjoy the spirits. If you’re hungry, the Panini and salad combinations for $10 are excellent and filling choices. Sandwiches are cleverly named after local streets, like the 51st with proscuitto, carmelized onions, and Harvati cheese and the Telegraph with marinated chicken breast, spinach, Fontina cheese, and a spicy chipotle aioli.

Servers at Marc 49 are friendly and will help you navigate through the wine list. Bring your friends and an appetite for fun.

HelloMetro Tip: Desserts are delish at $5 each, especially if you’re a chocolate fan. If you’re not in the mood for chocolate, the dessert menu won’t accommodate you there.

- by Renee M. Rutledge, San Francisco Reporter for HelloMetro  (Click to leave a message)

Renee M. Rutledge

Renee M. Rutledge currently writes articles on local travel and culture for Red Tricycle, Parents' Press, Oakland Magazine, and Alameda Magazine.