Although Steve Cruz was born in the Philippines and James Sito was born in China, their paths crossed and forever intertwined in Oakland. There, more than two decades ago, they discovered a shared interest in the minutiae and endless variety of the culinary industry. Today, at San Leandro's CreAsian Bistro, Steve spends much of his time getting to know customers in the dining room while James experiments with powerful flavors, creative presentations, and spicy pyrotechnics in the kitchen.

James and his staff use fresh ingredients to fuse Chinese, American, Thai, and Japanese flavors into an eclectic menu. They plate up tempura vegetables, five-spice duck, seared ahi tuna, and wasabi-coated steak—as well as vegan and vegetarian dishes upon request—to create edible works of art. Much like a group of snowmen partying in a hot tub, the food's flavors dissolve and mix together with inventive cocktails and international and local wines from such vineyards as Nottingham Cellars. Also a strong supporter of the local community, CreAsian Bistro donates 10% of its sales on the first Wednesday of each month to the nonprofit San Leandro Education Foundation, which improves educational opportunities for local children.