Foodie Stocking Stuffers

Costco embraces the local with discounted gift cards to Bay Area eateries

Weaving through Costco’s maze of gift baskets and iTunes gift cards, it’s easy to miss a special holiday item with a local twist. But look carefully—it’s there.

Your neighborhood Costco now offers gift cards to East Bay restaurants such as Wente and Simply Fondue in Livermore, Fleming’s in Walnut Creek, and Patrick David’s and Bridges in Danville. Gift cards to Ozumo in Oakland and Palomino in San Francisco have also popped up in local Costcos.

Typically, you get two $50 cards for $79.99. The $20 savings makes fine dining a little more affordable. Although these cards are available year-round, you’ll find the largest selection during the holiday season, so be sure to grab some for yourself, too.