Thai life Ditch your instant noodles and opt for authentic Thai ingredients from the newly opened Tuk-Tuk Thai and Asian Market (1581 University, Berk. 510-666-1125). Stroll down aisles stocked with Thai and other Asian imports, or just grab some takeout from this newest addition to University Avenue's International Marketplace. (Matthew Shechmeister)

A crafty cause One of the first blooms in the once lackluster Piedmont District, Folk's Art (4158 Piedmont, Oakl. 510-653-5448) is an collective that sells arts and crafts made by struggling artists from around the world. Owner Beth Beatty founded Folk's Art out of a desire to help foster economic development in third world countries, and the store is now celebrating its 30th anniversary. "We've also expanded to include work of struggling local artists," she said. "Artists struggle all over the world." (Maya Melenchuk)

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