Best of the East Bay- Shops

Best gifts, chocolate, furniture, bikes, pet gear, antiques...

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Chocolate Shop

Reader Pick

→ Say the word chocolate to most Diabloland residents these days, and they’ll start dreaming of their favorite truffle from Moonstruck Chocolate Café. And, with good reason—this shop knows its chocolate. Whether you’re craving something simple or more decadent (we love the spicy Mayan and Ocumarian truffles), Moonstruck can cure whatever ails you. And, don’t overlook its fabulous hot chocolates and mochas, all of which come with a healthy dose of whipped cream and a dark chocolate medallion on top.

1273 Locust St., Walnut Creek, (925) 932-8377, www.moonstruckchocolate.com. —Becki J. Singer
 

Refuge For New Parents

Editor Pick: New and Notable

→ New parents have been falling into the arms of San Francisco’s DayOne for years. And, now it’s our turn. An all-in-one resource for parents and babies, this heaven-sent center has everything—and we mean everything—you need. Whether you’re looking for prenatal vitamins, the safest car seats, drop-in lactation consultations, childproofing products, yoga classes, or custom-fit nursing bras, DayOne has you covered from your second trimester to your baby’s second year.

1403 N. Main St., Walnut Creek, (925) 933-3295, www.dayonecenter.com. —Hannah Craddick

Gift Shop

Reader Pick

→ Stocked to the rafters with unique jewelry and handbags by local artisans, beautiful candles, and an eclectic array of home accessories, Sage Terrace is the ideal first stop for gift shopping of all kinds. We love its selection of vintage art prints, table linens, and stationery by local designers. And, while you’re picking out that perfect present, you might even find a little something for yourself.

215 Alamo Plaza, Ste. D, Alamo, (866) 997-7243, www.thecolorsage.com. —B.J.S.

Pet Shop

Reader Pick

→ Chain pet shop. Usually, that means that if you have questions about your pet, you shouldn’t go wasting your breath asking employees who wouldn’t know a cockatiel from a cocker spaniel. Three cheers for local chain Pet Food Express, though. The animal-zealot employees at the store on Contra Costa Boulevard in Pleasant Hill recently recommended a simple spray made of all-natural ingredients for an irritated “hot spot” on a very handsome and intelligent cat named Yogi. It was a quick and simple cure, and lots cheaper than the steroids, antibiotics, and, yes, Prozac that had been recommended by Yogi’s team of medical professionals.

In Alameda, Berkeley, Clayton, Concord, Danville, Dublin, Lafayette, Livermore, Oakland, Pleasant Hill, and San Ramon. www.petfoodexpress.com. —Michaela Jarvis