The only bad thing about Rudy's Can't Fail Café in Emeryville is the parking — and that's because everything else is so damn good. (A new second location in uptown Oakland may bring drivers better luck.) From breakfast-all-day omelets and tofu scrambles to straight-up burgers and fries, the time-honored diner fare is good enough to keep cars circling the block for a spot. But if you're eco-conscious, you'll consider fueling yourself, rather than your car, to start your day off Rudy's-right. For that, there's nothing better than the Rudy's Can't Fail Shakin' Jesse — an inspired blend of Guinness stout, chocolate ice cream, and homebrewed espresso. All the essentials in one malty mug, ready to whisk away the previous night's hangover and power a morning of full-throttle accomplishment.

481 Hollis, Emeryville. (510) 594-1221 and 1805 Telegraph, Oakl. (510) 251-9400, www.iamrudy.com