Up & Under Pub and Grill

2 W Richmond Ave., (510) 778-1313. L-D daily; $$.

This atmospheric pub within a flatiron-style building dominates a corner in Christmasy red-and-green splendor.

exterior of Up & Under Pub and Grill in Pt. Richmond, California

Inside, the Up & Under Pub and Grill is a woodsy den, with a variety of seating. I like best the main room where the bar is.

interior of Up & Under Pub and Grill in Pt. Richmond, California

Of course the beer selections are primo, and the menu features nicely battered halibut fish & chips

fish & chips at Up & Under Pub and Grill in Pt. Richmond, California

and both ahi and regular burgers.

ahi burger at Up & Under Pub and Grill in Pt. Richmond, California

Fries can be limp, and cole slaw is a bust, but the onion rings are worth a go. Everything from salads, a Caprese sandwich, and BBQ is also available. Several flat-screen TVs present sporting events.

You'll find these shops and more just around the corner:

Mom & Pop Art Shop

24 West Richmond Ave., (510) 730-1154.

exterior of Mom & Pop Art Shop in Pt. Richmond, California

This small shop multi-tasks. It features an inventory of well-priced art supplies and items from local crafts people,

merchandise at Mom & Pop Art Shop in Pt. Richmond, California

and it devotes an entire room to an art gallery that features rotating shows of works from artists around the world, including that of the artist-owners. An “Imaginarium” table provides creative activities, puzzles, and toys for children to try out.

art gallery at Mom & Pop Art Shop in Pt. Richmond, California

Outback

139 W. Richmond Ave., (510) 237 1199. Sun 11-5, M-Sat 11-6.

Over the past 30 years this unusual clothing boutique has developed a loyal following. I first discovered Outback in the outback of Oakland, and have since visited it in many more locations. Currently it also has outlets in Berkeley and Ashland, Oregon. You never know what you’ll find--most of the items are closeouts from wholesalers and some are designer labels--and you need to be prepared to try on your selections in a shared dressing room.