Restaurants in Berkeley
Loading...
Best Restaurants
“Beautiful decor, light, tasty and nourishing food, easy parking. Music was a little loud but good tunes. Seating for large and small groups was well as for tables of 1-2.”
“First time I had Lucia's pizza was at their pop up at the Grand Lake farmers market in oakland, and completely fell in love with the 4 cheese pizza! Decided to try the restaurant a couple of months ago and the didn't disappoint! Pizza was delicious and staff were super nice and friendly! Totally recommend them if you're looking to have a legit Italian pizza experience!”
“One of our all-time favorites. We go every year for our anniversary and often several more times a year with friends. It’s a part of my history so it holds a very special place in my heart and I will always return to the magnificent food service, and people that make the legend that it is.”
Restaurants by Cuisine
“The char siu pork is so tender while the outside is perfectly crispy! It’s a great upleveling of a traditional dish. I’ll go without the black bean sauce next time. I’m excited to come back!”
“My sister and I just had a couple of Cali Alley burgers delivery and these things are good! Next time I'm in Berkeley, I will definately order again.”
“Without a doubt. This is some awesome pizza. The ingredients are great. The dough is off the hook. In both the regular NY and the Sicillian. The Italian sausage cannon be better. The only bad thing is that I have bragged about it so much that's its led me to order it often and share it with friends.”
Restaurants with Delivery
“Fournee often has a very long line, but some random weekend mornings, there's no line...and you should definitely jump on the opportunity! The line can be quite long, around the corner which can be quite a wait. My favorites are the cheese bread, croissant, chocolate croissant and ham and cheese croissant....but there are also tons of other delicious goodies there; I just have to stop myself from ordering everything. They also have a bunch of really delicious desserts in the front case which I haven't had a chance to try.”
“the shared plates and appetizers here are amazing. it's actually very reasonable to have a family style meal here and I would definitely recommend doing so over getting the sushi individually. the eggplant, brussels sprouts, tofu mushroom pockets, and katsu are my go-to.”
“came here for a very fun and memorable black sesame + vanilla éclair cooking class, would wholeheartedly recommend and wish to come back for another one. the cookies from here are delicious and adorable. I've been lucky to enjoy them in Berkeley and at Joodooboo in Oakland - never disappointing, always delicious + buttery without being overwhelmingly sweet. on point pastry technique while being pretty, too. everything from sesame tiny bakery has such a delicate charm and flavor that makes it so easy to love.”
“One of our all-time favorites. We go every year for our anniversary and often several more times a year with friends. It’s a part of my history so it holds a very special place in my heart and I will always return to the magnificent food service, and people that make the legend that it is.”
“First time I had Lucia's pizza was at their pop up at the Grand Lake farmers market in oakland, and completely fell in love with the 4 cheese pizza! Decided to try the restaurant a couple of months ago and the didn't disappoint! Pizza was delicious and staff were super nice and friendly! Totally recommend them if you're looking to have a legit Italian pizza experience!”
“Easily our favorite find since our daughter started school at UC Berkeley. The people there are so down to earth so kind. The food is amazing all the empenadas we have had are delicious. The Boba drinks there are so different than your run of the mill Boba ”
“I was a huge fan of Delirama, my absolute favorite sandwich was the Delirama Mama, so I was sad to hear the owner was going to pivot in a new direction. I prefer take out to dining in, so I waited for that to be an option, and put my order in today. I got a fried chicken sandwich and the pastrami Reuben, both with chips. The menu says a small salad is served with the sandwiches.The fried chicken sandwich is HUGE and delicious. I prefer my fried chicken to be a little on the dark side, which this was. I only wished there were more pickles, but that's because if I could subsist on pickles I would.The Reuben was the same as the Delirama one. My husband was bummed it was "so small," but that's because I used to get the biggest sandwich option and this one is the regular sized one.The chips were yummy, and still warm from the fryer by the time I got home. Or had just taken on some of the radiant heat from my sandwich. Either way, delightful.The salad is not small, it is quite generous in size. The dressing is a little sweet and a lot acidic, which I really enjoyed. My one complaint is that it was overdressed for me, but I prefer the minimum amount of dressing.I gave the atmosphere 4 stars because it was a bit dark inside for me.”
“Service started off poorly, but then picked up and became terrific. We lived our server, TJ. Tapas came quickly and at a good pace until the paella was delivered. The lobster fritters and achicoria salad were very good, pulpo and ribs just fair. The paella mixta was good, but the prawns were overcooked & there was WAY too much diced red pepper in the dish. I'd much prefer julienned roasted red pepper strewn throughout.”
Outdoor Dining
“This coffee shop is a must try! Recently moved to the neighborhood and was checking out the businesses nearby, and found this gem of a place! First of all, the decor of this place feels like you are in an upscale place, but offers such a cozy feel. The young woman behind the counter is so sweet and friendly! I got their Heyma latte, which is absolutely delicious, and the spices make you feel at home. I saw many reviews saying to get the honeycomb pastry, and that's what I did! The bread, honey, and cream cheese trio was such a delightful taste. I will definitely be back to keeping trying new things, especially since it is walking distance from my house!”
“Without a doubt. This is some awesome pizza. The ingredients are great. The dough is off the hook. In both the regular NY and the Sicillian. The Italian sausage cannon be better. The only bad thing is that I have bragged about it so much that's its led me to order it often and share it with friends.”
“Service started off poorly, but then picked up and became terrific. We lived our server, TJ. Tapas came quickly and at a good pace until the paella was delivered. The lobster fritters and achicoria salad were very good, pulpo and ribs just fair. The paella mixta was good, but the prawns were overcooked & there was WAY too much diced red pepper in the dish. I'd much prefer julienned roasted red pepper strewn throughout.”
“Such an amazing unassuming bakery full of delicious decadence. All the French and Algerian pastries are so beautiful but the flavor of the Turkish delights are beyond good!! The chai latte was the best I've had and the Turkish coffee is strong and good. If you're in the area I definitely recommended supporting this family run small business.”
“They have really pretty outdoor seating. The banchan is excellent (like some of the best ive had). The service was excellent. The main dishes I got were not very good, tofu stew was a little bland and they don’t have bibimbap, only stir fried veggies and meat over rice.Overall I really like this place but would order something different next time.”
“Some of the best coffee within a mile or so and definitely a nice hidden quiet but small spot to sit away from the bustle. They’re almond cookies are a great gluten free option. But everything else is amazing as well.A small business with a talented baker, not just another chain. Come support them!Don’t know why it doesn’t pop up on Google when you search for “coffee shops” near by though. Strange.Dietary restrictions: Gluten free option”
“Ordered a sheet cake for a book release party. There were two layers of beautiful, delicate vanilla cake with generous custard and delicious raspberry filling. The image of the book cover was sharp and set off with flawless piping. The online order ahead system works well. Such a fabulous cake for a special evening!”
“Best bakery in Berkeley. They are so underrated and I wish more people know about their great food. I’m obsessed with their focaccia breads (marinara is out of the world), their pizzas are personally my favourite in berkeley and the chocolate croissant is to die for. I visit them atleast thrice a week. Encourage everyone to try this small business.”
“A friend recommended we check out this spot, and am I glad we did. I haven’t had tex-mex/Mexican style food this good since I lived in Texas.The chips were seasoned (such a rare thing, and VERY MUCH appreciated), the main dishes were flavorful, and the service was good too.Definitely will be going here again at some point. Highly recommend.”
“They have really pretty outdoor seating. The banchan is excellent (like some of the best ive had). The service was excellent. The main dishes I got were not very good, tofu stew was a little bland and they don’t have bibimbap, only stir fried veggies and meat over rice.Overall I really like this place but would order something different next time.”
Online Reservation Available
“I ordered a quesabirria taco and a burrito from here recently. The quesabirria was $5 for one that came with cucumber slices, one roasted jalapeno and one small cup of birria. It was amazing!! Really hit the spot in terms of flavor. The burrito on the other hand was good not great. It had a way too thick of a flour wrap around the burrito. I felt like I was eating a 30% flour wrap and only 70% filling. Otherwise, it was a good flavored burrito. I'll be back if I'm ever in the neighborhood for the quesabirria.”
“Tasty food!! Fun servers; may initially come off as a bit curt/quiet; but very nice, and the service is prompt and strong!a couple outdoor tables, and plenty indoor. They have $13-17 lunch specials M-F 11:30-2:30. The main dishes aren’t too much more, and are a great portion size. Kid and dog friendly outdoors.Vegetarian options: Plenty of veg dishes.Dietary restrictions: Plenty of veg dishes, and other seafood/tofu options.Parking: Metered on Solano, and free in neighborhoodKid-friendliness: Yes!Wheelchair accessibility: Ada compliant, and the tables have chairs that can be moved to accommodate.”
“We went here for brunch. Good, unique food! Service was good, staff was very nice, consistent with a chill Berkeley vibe. I tried the southern style breakfast, which was a nice healthier take on southern classics. Good flavor. The baked egg was perfect, and in a cute shape. Loved the greens and the yam, and the black-eyed peas were lovely. The cornbread could've been a bit more moist I thought, but overall enjoyed it!”
“This is hands-down the absolute best place to go if you are sober with your drinking friends or dates! Or if you are partaking in dry January, or just a dry week! Not only do they have an array of adult non-alcoholic options (not just water and soda), these NA drinks are SO good! The hop water is an excellent option with their awesome cans - really makes you blend in and tastes great. The supertonics are all delicious but my absolute favorite is the salt and lime as it really gives you the feel of drinking a margarita. I get packs to bring home, add tajin on the rim of a glass and it's my most favorite easy mocktail-style drink without feeling too sweet or cheesy. They also now have two non-alcoholic beers which I cannot wait to try. Oh and I shouldn't forget - their ginger beer and root beer are also delicious! Thank you fieldwork for having all of these amazing options for us non-alcoholics that love enjoying drinks with friends on a patio, I am one of your biggest fans! ❤️”
“We hosted my wife's 50th birthday celebration at Sway recently. It was a big milestone event and we are so happy to have done it at Sway. The venue is beautiful, tastefully decorated, well lit, well equipped (for serving food beverages) and also has a lovely sound system. We had a dance party and the configurable space made it easy for us to arrange the tables in a way that worked for us. My wife loved the space and the arrangement and so did all of our guests. Clara with the booking team was very prompt and helpful to all our queries and requests. Adam arranged for us to see the place before we booked it. We are so glad to have found Sway and cannot wait to host another event there.”
“Got the bacon cheeseburger and made it a double. It was perfectly cooked; both the burger and bacon. My partner got a steak burger with fries it is huge for the price. I suggest adding cheese to it. Very large portion of fresh very hot fries. I’m the picture I added that is only half the fries. I had the rest with my burger. Can’t wait to try other food here”
“The food was excellent. The wine was delicious. The service hit just the right note. Great care was taken over gluten-free issues. And all in a wonderful setting. They were busy so we did wait a while for our food and it was a tad noisy, but in no way did this spoil, the evening.”
“Not what I had expected, not bad, but definitely had an arrogant vibe. As if you don't read Japanese or like raw chicken then maybe one should try somewhere else. My wife and I often dine at very nice restaurants, with that the meal and drinks were So-So but not SoHo or SoMa ready.”
“10/10 service amazing atmosphere great vibes all throughout. I stopped by with my family we loved it ! My son was very happy he was dancing to the good music they had! I got the tres leches French toast , rib eye sandwich and I emptied the plate amazing, must try. My wife got the chilaquiles verdes ask for chicken or steak. We were satisfied. Will be stopping by for the churro waffles next on the list . Oh and they have freshly squeezed orange juice that was a cherry on top. Thank you to Eggy’s neighborhoods kitchen.”
“We went here for brunch. Good, unique food! Service was good, staff was very nice, consistent with a chill Berkeley vibe. I tried the southern style breakfast, which was a nice healthier take on southern classics. Good flavor. The baked egg was perfect, and in a cute shape. Loved the greens and the yam, and the black-eyed peas were lovely. The cornbread could've been a bit more moist I thought, but overall enjoyed it!”
24 Hour Restaurants
“I’m a pizza fanatic and this is hands down the best pizza I’ve ever had. Better then anything in NY and Connecticut (Pepe’s, Sally’s). The Brazilian was next level pizza”
“The food was excellent. The wine was delicious. The service hit just the right note. Great care was taken over gluten-free issues. And all in a wonderful setting. They were busy so we did wait a while for our food and it was a tad noisy, but in no way did this spoil, the evening.”
Takeout Restaurants
“The Banana sundae and cookie monster concrete were delicious! This was my first time trying custard (not very common in California) and I was a fan! The smell of toffee as you enter the store is divine. Lexie was extremely friendly and answered all our questions! We're excited for them to become a local favorite!”
“It’s delicious and great service, my son asked to visit the place for his bday and it was closed, when i told them we did the drive from Lathrop for him they did something special for him and they really made his Day. That was really nice of them. Thank you!”
“Came on a Saturday evening, and there was a long line down the block. They only serve 1 type of pizza and 1 type of salad, and you decide how much you want of each. For the pizza, you can order per slice, half pie, or whole pie. You order at the front and then choose a seat if you're dining in. Since there's only one choice for everything, it all comes out right away when you order and pay. If you want anything specialized - gluten-free, vegan, etc then they tell you to go to counter to order first, then get in line to pay. Would recommend getting the green sauce as well for an extra delicious kick. They also have outdoor dog friendly dining. Delicious pizza, highly recommend.”
“Highly recommend the Paneer achari twist thin crust pizza! Very flavorful, could go little low on cheese. The pesto pasta was a bit dry. Seasoned fries were good. I recommend ordering their specialty twist items.Plenty of indoor seating available. They got board games on each tables to play while you wait for food. Service is good.”
“I just discovered this great brewery. They have a nice array of IPA's and don't miss the Coffee and Cigarette's Stout. Yum. I only tried the meatballs, but they were very tasty with just the right amount of spice. The SF Chronicle food critics highly rate their pizza. They have a special pizza of the day plus a couple of standards. Big open space inside and out for big gatherings and also comfortable for me and my husband. We would have preferred different music, but other people seemed to like it. Don't miss this neighborhood gem.”
“Hidden Cafe can try to hide, but I find it every time. I'm glad their employees don't hide, even though I do love playing hide & seek. I don't think I would enjoy it as much if the only way I could get my coffee from here is by finding the hidden employees at hidden cafe. Trying to find a barista to order coffee, before I've had coffee, sounds daunting. Although, it would make that cup of joe so much more rewarding. Honestly, if the employees did start hiding, I'd still go here. That's how good their coffee and carrot cake is and how confident I am in my seeking abilities. Luckily, this is something I haven't had to face. All the employees here are extremely friendly and very easy to find. I'm happy that Hidden Cafe is not good enough at hiding to the point where it would run itself out of business. I love going here!”
“Tasty food!! Fun servers; may initially come off as a bit curt/quiet; but very nice, and the service is prompt and strong!a couple outdoor tables, and plenty indoor. They have $13-17 lunch specials M-F 11:30-2:30. The main dishes aren’t too much more, and are a great portion size. Kid and dog friendly outdoors.Vegetarian options: Plenty of veg dishes.Dietary restrictions: Plenty of veg dishes, and other seafood/tofu options.Parking: Metered on Solano, and free in neighborhoodKid-friendliness: Yes!Wheelchair accessibility: Ada compliant, and the tables have chairs that can be moved to accommodate.”
“Excellent selections and tastes. Not too expensive and high quality dishes. We tried a number of dishes and surprisingly everything was wonderful. Really! Atmosphere is jovial and a bit noisy, but in a good way. Definitely worth a visit, even if you are not a Japanese food fan.”
Drive-Thru Restaurants
“There’s no shade outside the Gilman Berkeley location. The only table umbrella there was broken. Every table was taken inside. The only choice was to bake in direct sunlight. The same issue exists in the Castro, SF and Fremont locations: no shaded seating outside.”
“While the line was long and many online orders were coming through today at lunchtime, the staff were attentive, friendly, and efficient.Notably, NeNe went above and beyond helping me create my own salad bowl, as this was my first time here. She positively engaged with not only me, but her team members, sparking fulfillment and enthusiasm. 10/10 customer service from her!The food was fresh, of high quality, and I will be coming back many times in the future!”
“The Afternoon tea on a Tuesday is a Berkeley hidden gem. A three tier stand of sweet and savory tea treats with a teapot of loose leaf tea is presented with warmth by the long-time staff. They treated my daughter who turned 21 with kindness and generosity and it was a lovely, relaxed afternoon. It's also a fraction of the price of other tea establishments. Highly recommend.”
“Don't lose your investment in forex trade/bitcoin. Go with a proven legitimate trader that allows your unrestricted access to your account. I recommend Mrs Craig Vanessa for anyone in need of a reliable account manager because she has really helped me and got me restored from previous losses and it's been cool all the way. Invest with her today and enjoy a profitable trading experience. Now I am making profit of $5,500 weekly. Contact her through Facebook: Mrs Craig Vanessa”
“AMAZING vegetarian & vegan restaurant!!(⁎⁍̴̛ᴗ⁍̴̛⁎)❤️?I’ve been wanting to visit this place since my second year in Berkeley, and I’m glad I finally did!You can tell they made their food with great care and the ingredients are yummy and fresh!The staff are very nice; the vibe inside is clean and chill. This is a great place for you to hang out with a small group of friends or come alone to recharge your mental health (I mean seriously, their food is tasty, healthy, and pretty!)I’d definitely come back very often to try out all other creative cuisines! ”
Cheap Eats
“I was there yesterday and had the Killer BLAT I didn't know if I would like it but turns out I loved it and I will return it was so good. It's a great place that you have to try.”
“My girlfriend and I recently dined at Momo Masala, and it was an experience we won't forgey. The menu offered a delightful array of options, but our hearts were set on trying their renowned momos and biryani. Let me tell you, they did not disappoint! The momos were bursting with flavor, each bite a symphony of spices and textures.The biryani was a revelation, perfectly cooked rice layered with tender meat and aromatic spices.What truly elevated our dining experience was the ambiance. Surrounded by lush indoor plants and subtle Himalayan decor, we felt like we were dining in a cozy mountain retreat. It was a welcome escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.But what truly set Momo Masala apart was their exceptional staff. Not only were they attentive and friendly, but their prompt service ensured that our evening flowed seamlessly.In conclusion, if you're looking for a culinary adventure that tantalizes the taste buds and soothes the soul, look no further than Momo Masala. It's more than just a restaurant; it's an experience worth savoring.”
“Oh wow, I'm so glad I found this place! I visit Berkley often for work and to visit my son who's a student. This is hands-down the best breakfast option around. The oatmeal bowls are absolutely delicious, as are the smoothies. Everything is high-quality and fresh. I ordered ahead for pickup and it was ready when I arrived the shop is really cute and the staff was fast and friendly. I'm getting ready to order again today before flying home and I will definitely be back anytime I'm in town.Dietary restrictions: Great place for vegan, vegetarian, and gluten free folks. But anyone will find their food delicious.”
“Don't lose your investment in forex trade/bitcoin. Go with a proven legitimate trader that allows your unrestricted access to your account. I recommend Mrs Craig Vanessa for anyone in need of a reliable account manager because she has really helped me and got me restored from previous losses and it's been cool all the way. Invest with her today and enjoy a profitable trading experience. Now I am making profit of $5,500 weekly. Contact her through Facebook: Mrs Craig Vanessa”
“I'd been curious about this place for years, super cute looking. The Orange Blossom Latte was so delicious and smooth and I was able to order it dairy free (with oat milk- best brand of oat milk too) which was perfect for my gut. The atmosphere is perfect for a date, catching up with a friend, getting some work done, or just sitting with a drink. Very pleasant and friendly staff and they were fast too. Definitely will want to come back.”
“Good dine in experience.. The combo rice dish was flavourful and was of a decent helping. The rice was lacking the butter flavouring in my opinion. The beef and chicken skewers were done perfectly though.The only thing I didn't like, was the "mint tea". Was served a cup of hot water with a few mint leaves in it, but no sign of tea anywhere. Thought it quite odd that they'd call it tea then..Quite reasonable pricing too, for today's world.. Found a parking structure within walking distance from the restaurant at $2.50 for the first 2 hours.. so don't bother driving around in circles trying to find a street parking spot.”
“This is hands-down the absolute best place to go if you are sober with your drinking friends or dates! Or if you are partaking in dry January, or just a dry week! Not only do they have an array of adult non-alcoholic options (not just water and soda), these NA drinks are SO good! The hop water is an excellent option with their awesome cans - really makes you blend in and tastes great. The supertonics are all delicious but my absolute favorite is the salt and lime as it really gives you the feel of drinking a margarita. I get packs to bring home, add tajin on the rim of a glass and it's my most favorite easy mocktail-style drink without feeling too sweet or cheesy. They also now have two non-alcoholic beers which I cannot wait to try. Oh and I shouldn't forget - their ginger beer and root beer are also delicious! Thank you fieldwork for having all of these amazing options for us non-alcoholics that love enjoying drinks with friends on a patio, I am one of your biggest fans! ❤️”
“surprisingly gourmet level tastes and preparation. personal attention and care from chef as to our particular interests. excellent service to aide comfortable unhurried dining. highly recommended.”
“This place is a gem! Amazing service and fresh, fresh sashimi, nigiri and rolls. Can’t wait to come back!Vegetarian options: Plenty of vegetarian options. Great flavor and fresh ingredients.”
“A lovely neighborhood wine bar with great service from owners Nubeer and Sonny with expertly curated wines (by the glass, bottle, or flights) plus a small retail shop for take home bottles!”
“So happy we got to be one of the first customers to ever eat at this new Thai restaurant. The place inside is pretty small, but the decor is cute & simple. They make the most of the room by putting as many small tables that fit with seating mostly for tables of two or four. We were literally the second table to ever eat in this new spot. And wow, am I glad I decided to search Yelp today for lunch. The service was super sweet, friendly, and perfect. We had a hard time deciding on what to try first (because everything sounded good and the smells from the kitchen were amazing). What we ordered: - Tom Kha Soup with Chicken Excellently flavors and just enough spice for me. My spouse loves really spicy dishes and said it would be delicious with more spiciness, but thought the broth was so good that it didn’t even need to change. We actually just wish there was an option to order a larger size, it was that good! Sometimes my spouse like to just have soup as the entree. - Green Curry with Chicken (comes with rice) Wow! Super bright and fresh taste! Smells really good and tastes even better. It was very fresh and loved all the vegetables inside (eggplant soaked up all the delicious flavor just right, baby corn- yum, etc.). - Pad Cashew Nut with Pork (comes with rice) AMAZING. Mouth-wateringly delicious. I did not want the dish to end. It was the perfect amount of flavor and freshness. Loved the cashews, the carrots, the onions, the cilantro on top. Perfect combination of sweet & salty sauce with nuttiness from the cashews, enhanced by the onion, carrot, cilantro. Since it was their first day, we enjoyed free beverages. The Thai tea was so good- you can get oat milk for $1 more. The Black Mango Iced Tea was also delicious and you get refills on it. I cannot wait to go back and eat every dish. Since it was their first hour open, we were there when the Doordash photographer came to snap pictures of all the dishes. WOW! We were eyeing the Lobster Ravioli and honestly it looks too good to miss. So we’ll probably be back later this week to try it and more. Congratulations on your opening. Thank you for bringing delicious Thai food to the area. We just moved up here from San Diego, and we’ve been having a hard time finding true Thai food and flavors. Many of the Thai places we’ve eaten up up here lack flavor or are just different because they’re fused with Laotian dishes or another type of cuisine. Finely we found a great Thai places we can walk to from the University Village apartments. See you soon!”
“We are new to the area/California from NY we were delighted to find pizza as amazing as home! Friendly owner and staff.”
“I love this place!!! I stumbled upon it when I was walking to eat at Barneys but after seeing the menu on their window I decided to walk in and check it out and I’m glad I did!!”
“I've come here for years since I was a kidAlways deliciousBe prepared to eat with your handsWe love getting the combo platters and you can add additional items to itNever disappointed”
“A cut above most mom & pop neighborhood Thai spots, yet still reasonably priced. Good food, nicely plated, nice staff.”
“I would give 5 stars, but the portion sizes are quite small for how much you're paying. I paid $40 for a steak and left with a half-empty stomach. No complaints otherwise; it's a great place to dine, especially if your appetite is not very large.”
“Very good food, I came here with my girlfriend for dinner and the staff was very nice. Cute little spot in Albany. Highly recommend the butter chicken, but make sure you get it spicy! I will be back again.”
“Amazing sushi rolls and great service. Try it. I promise you won't be disappointed.”
“Top notch drinks and personalities behind the bar, we will back. My only regret is that I waited this long to go there.”
“Great food and the place is nice and spacious. Our server Jack was great, he recommended one of their secret menu plates. If you want to try, ask for Jack he will let you know.”
“My dinner partner and I both agree that the physical atmosphere, and food were excellent. The place was almost empty on a Sunday night yet the service was mediocre. We had to keep tracking down the waiter for our hot water for the tea, box for take away, etc. Inattentive. The staff also seemed unhappy or dissatisfied with their jobs. The prices have gone up so don’t feel we got value for our money”
“Definitely recommend this place! first time here and I can't wait to come back next time I'm in Berkeley!! Food is delicious!”
“I will always advise that when you want to trade, you should seek the assistance of a well Experienced and legit trader. I've been trading with Mr Ralph Carico and it would be unfair of me if I don't recommend him. With his well-guarded signals, approved withdrawals and forever active strategies and signal he made trading easy and I am proud to say he made me a trading Guru. I have been able to get profit weekly. i assured you would earn good returns when you trade with Ralph Carico”
“Stopped off here when they opened before a concert. The staff was very nice. The food was delicious. Small place but not cramped. Everything was fresh and hot. They have can sodas, so there are no refills, but that's my only complaint. Will be back to try other rolls. Highly suggest the unagi with tobiko. So delicious.”
“Had two rolls as well as a few of the special fish. They were all really delicious, albeit pricey. Service was great; water kept pouring and we were looked after. We sat in the "back;" it was quiet and there was plenty of conversation to be had. And I really loved the kimono that was hanging on the wall.”
“The food and service was amazing here. Came on a Saturday afternoon, it wasn't packed, and parking was easy. We ordered the mild chicken wings, beef kimbap, and spicy pork bibimbap with the melon soju... EVERYTHING WAS AMAZING and enough to split with my friend. Food did take a little bit to come out, but I will never complain about how long it takes because it was fresh and made with love. I will be back soon, definitely try this place out.”
“Not what I had expected, not bad, but definitely had an arrogant vibe. As if you don't read Japanese or like raw chicken then maybe one should try somewhere else. My wife and I often dine at very nice restaurants, with that the meal and drinks were So-So but not SoHo or SoMa ready.”
“Checked out this local burger place in Berkeley after checking Yelp for burgers near Telegraph Ave and Cal. I had their turkey burger which I have to say was the best spiced turkey burger I have had anywhere. A good sized, thin patty came on a sesame see led bun with their standard toppings. Was one of the few times I had to be carful eating it as it was juicy and messy, which is not the usual case for a Turkey burger. Their fries were OK and the sesame seed bun was good but maybe not as soft as some would like, but overall a really great little burger joint. Has some interesting choices I will have to try next time, line the lamb Persian burger and Black Bean burger. Check it out”
“We met friends here for dinner on a Friday night and discovered they have a GREAT happy hour menu from 5-7 PM, so you can actually get there and enjoy it on a regular work day. The service was warm and the food satisfying. It's a small place with a mom-and-pop vibe and, after ordering practically everything on the HH menu, we left happy and not feeling broke. Definitely worth a return visit!”
“I was introduced to this restaurant by my other “foodie” friend Maria Vargas. I have been there about 4 times now. I appreciate the fresh pasta, the fresh veggies and the excellent service. Will be back again soon.”
“Very pleasant experience eating here. Saturday evening was busy so reasonable wait, but server was very friendly so no issues there. The set up is pretty nice and lively vibe inside. Food was very well seasoned and even the kids were not picky at all. They actually ate everything so they really enjoyed it too.”
“The atmosphere was absolutely relaxing with an inviting appeal. The wines were unique and very smooth. For those who think they do not like wine, I challenge you to try these wines”
“Food and service is great! Nice to see the bear's lair open and having tasty food. Pizza and the fries are amazing!! Happy hour is a good deal! The staff are friendly and attentive!”
“My experience at Passione Caffè in their gorgeous two-story, well-decorated café at 91 Shattuck Square was simply marvelous. The staff was friendly, quick, and accommodating and the food, drinks, and desserts were delicious! I highly recommend Passione Caffè to those looking for a quick and yummy lunch (or breakfast/brunch everyday), to snack and study, or for an authentic Italian coffee. Don’t miss out on the great happy hour/aperativo deals between 4-7PM! It almost goes without mentioning, but Passione Caffè is absolutely true to its slogan: “A corner of Italy in Berkeley.” From the food and drink to the atmosphere and the service, this is the only truly Italian café I have found in Berkeley! And that comes from over a year of experience living and traveling in Italy! Besides the beautiful architecture and interior design of Passione Caffè—not to mention its convenient location next to Downtown Berkeley BART—I would like to point out some highlights on the menu. The pastas are all made with homemade, organic noodles and made-to-order sauces. The pasta dishes are so fresh and authentic! The spaghetti with meatballs, their only Americanized dish, is to die for! The pizzas also are also made with home-made dough and gluten-free options are offered. Try one with fresh prosciutto, mozzarella, and arugula! The fresh panini with Italian meats and cheeses round out the lunch menu. It is possible to have a filling lunch for $7-15, which is definitely reasonably priced by Berkeley standards! A serious final highlight was the artisanal gelato, made in-house by the Italian co-owner, Eleanora Cercatore. There are 12 flavors, weekly made with gluten-free options, that are displayed on a beautiful rotating wheel. The gelato is spectacularly tasty—I cannot recommend it highly enough! For your time, money, and fine Italian bites and drinks, I cannot recommend a Berkeley café more highly than Passione Caffè! Please pay them a visit soon—you won’t be disappointed!”
“Me and my co - workers loved the food that we ordered. We definitely come back and recommend”
“I enjoyed this elegant restaurant. The service was beyond great, and the food was very good. Although it was fairly full, the noise level was low, providing a calming dining experience.”
“This is one of the best Chinese restaurants I've been to. I come here from the East Bay to eat their food. The chicken is always delicious and not a cheap chewy chicken. I've ordered many other things on their menu and it's always good. The service is fast and friendly. The ambiance seems formal but is casual.”
“Staff is always on point. Good food. Always comes out promptly.”
“So I called this place this evening and asked if they could prepare my food to go without using plastic anything, they said they would and I agreed to bring my own box….well I brought a box and a paper bag and they provided excellent food and service without a bit of plastic and I was thrilled! Wonderful to find a place that doesn’t act like I have two heads because I don’t want plastic packaging. This is my new sushi place for sure!Vegetarian options: Plenty of vegetarian rolls, salads, soup.Dietary restrictions: Diabetic optionsParking: So easy to park…plenty spaces on San Pablo and easy side streets”
“Yes, I did try it and the food was very good but he needs to update his hours when he's there and when he isn't there, Google always says he's open but he never is”
“Delish food, good drinks, friendly & great customer service. Reasonably priced”
“Visiting from out of state. Went here for Father’s Day celebration . Excellent food and service.”
“Friendly Staff. Great food and drinks. Its pretty busy and we never felt rushed! The tiramisu martini was delicious!”
“Great food. Sushi is fantastic, but so is the teriyaki and the ramen. Hard to choose!”
“BOBA DRINKS, Chicken wings, spicy noodles. Social distancing, mask required, no dine_in, meter street parking, Great area near Veteran's Hospital and its across from Mr Banh Mi...”
“The menu delves into dishes from different parts of India beyond the mainstream ones we usually see at Indian restaurants in North America. The detailed descriptions on the menu help you learn more about what you're eating. Almost all entrees come with rice, creamy daal (lentils) and some greens. The naan/kulcha were large and fluffy. The bharwa karela (bitter melon) was very flavorful and bitter. Instantly took me back to my childhood.Menu changes monthly. Can't wait to be back to explore more of the Indian cuisine”
“The service was really quick, and the servers were polite and did their job well. The food was amazing. We got the agedashi which was some of the best tofu I've had, and we got the lion king roll and asami roll. Both rolls were spectacular, and the miso soup was cozy and yummy. Overall, I had a great experience and I will come back!”
“I recently visited for their 2024 Berkeley Restaurant Week dinner set for two, which turned to be the best bargain comparing with the ones in the past. It came with kimchi pancake, half order of KFC wings, and a bottle of beer or Soju. However, being a long-time patron, I'm very disappointed at their Yang Nyum KFC wings that are no longer crunchy and spicy. Not sure if the chef had left or they changed the recipe, but the sauce is no longer red, thick, tangy and spicy like the way that got me hooked years ago. To me, it tastes like the sweet chili sauce used for Lumpia Shanghai, one that's available in Asian supermarket.”
“A great find for Ethiopian cuisine in the East Bay. And offering 100% teff injera makes it a great gluten free option. Diners can sit at either conventional tables or a tradtional table. The stylish decor helps lend a layer of authenticity. It can be very warm inside due to lack of AC; ceiling fans help to pull in outside air when the temperature drops.”
“While looking for a place to learn how to enjoy whiskey, I stumbled upon this place, for the second time, (forget what it was 30 years ago)Is the epitome of a warm cozy spot. Super friendly staff, informative about whiskey, great clientele, and decent prices all make for one great experience. I will be back!”
“Me and my family's very fav sushi place!! it's small and very comfortable and warm feeling, while also being pretty aesthetically pleasing. Sushi is so delicious and the service is great. highly recommend!!”
“Great cocktails, service and food!! The ambience is what I like the most here.. chill vibes dim light makes it the perfect option for my husband and I to continue to pick for a date night!”
“My favorite Thai restaurant. The wait staff are really nice and accommodating, and the restaurant is pretty and relaxing. My chicken fried rice was delicious, with some lettuce and cucumbers on the plate for additional veges, and my friend loved his Pad Thai. Highly recommended.”
“Beautiful place and nice concept with delicious food.The sinks in both downstairs bathrooms don’t work (with signs telling customers not to tamper with the plumbing, so clearly not a problem only since today). This makes me wonder where the staff wash their hands - it’s definitely not in the bathrooms.”
“It may not look like it but Wholefood makes some of the best pizzas around. The whole pizzas are made to order in about 20 minutes so you’re getting it fresh and hot. The staff here is also better (IMHO) than the folks at the Temescal Wholefood location.”
“A long overdue review as I came here in May for BRW to go. We got 4 BRW prix fixe menu for $40 each for us and my parents and added a lamb shank from their regular menu as well. The mushroom soup was light and flavorful with every sip due to the porcini broth. Since I rarely fry things myself, anytime I see arancini available, I almost always get them and these definitely did not disappoint. Three of us got the crab raviolis which just like the soup was delicious from the first bite to the last. The porchetta was good but personally I preferred those crab raviolis instead. Since my dad loves lamb shanks, we had to order one to try and it was dad approved. For dessert, it was 50/50 chocolate torte and blood orange panna cotta. For chocolate lovers, that torte is decadent and satisfying. For non-chocolate lovers, that panna cotta was a great alternate, but again for me, chocolate was the way to go.”
“Only sushi restaurant that I love in the Bay Area. I moved so SF from LA a couple of years ago and wasn't able to find a spot I loved until Nikko. Best sushi, best service, and complimentary miso soup!”
“This place will become a regular takeout treat for me - Chicken Sekuwa is moist and so flavorful, Chicken Chowmein is light and tasty (I know... chowmein! But it's really more of a lo mein than the chowmein I remember from childhood "Chinese" restaurants where I grew up), spicy Bhindi Tarkari (okra with onions and tomatoes), and delicious rotis and parathas. Really friendly staff and efficient online ordering.”
“The menu is very simple, salads, pizza, burgers and fries, and everything is perfect. Especially the shoestring fries. All of the salads are great. Their drip coffee is excellent, as was the lemonade. Service was fast and accommodating. I loved everything about Zut!”
“Spontaneously hunting for a good meal before a show at the Freight. I am already looking forward to returning for the wonderful food here. We received a warm greeting and the service continued to feel truly caring. The food was excellent!”
“We always get the chicken cilicia dinner and the chicken pomegranate dinner, but today we got the lamb lule dinner instead of the chicken. Everything was delicious. We always get the salad for one dinner and the soup for the other. The baba ghanoush is also one of our favorites. We arrived just before the dinner rush, so it was quiet and romantic, then the place was bustling with activity. Service is great too.”
“Pizza tasted awesome. Tried the California chicken garlic and probably one of the best chicken pizzas I've tried so far. The staff were very good and welcoming.Give them a try.Also tried the beef taco pizza, a little hot because of the jalapeno but tasted great. They said it'll be ready in 10 minutes and right at 10min, it was ready.”
Latest Reviews
“This is the perfect neighborhood Italian place like in Manhattan or SanFrancisco. Absolutely delicious, we’ll-crafted Italian food that elevates the ingredients. My husband and I split a pizza and each had a salad plus a bottle of wine. Pizza amazing, wines amazing, salads lovely. Been wondering why Berkeley didn’t have places like this.”
Most Popular Restaurants
“The interior is surprisingly very spacious. Menu has a great variety of items but I decided on the salmon avocado toast & standard latte for breakfast. Both were great & the sandwich ingredients tasted fresh. Great for people watching as you enjoy your morning drink.”
“Came on a Saturday evening, and there was a long line down the block. They only serve 1 type of pizza and 1 type of salad, and you decide how much you want of each. For the pizza, you can order per slice, half pie, or whole pie. You order at the front and then choose a seat if you're dining in. Since there's only one choice for everything, it all comes out right away when you order and pay. If you want anything specialized - gluten-free, vegan, etc then they tell you to go to counter to order first, then get in line to pay. Would recommend getting the green sauce as well for an extra delicious kick. They also have outdoor dog friendly dining. Delicious pizza, highly recommend.”
“Ordered a sheet cake for a book release party. There were two layers of beautiful, delicate vanilla cake with generous custard and delicious raspberry filling. The image of the book cover was sharp and set off with flawless piping. The online order ahead system works well. Such a fabulous cake for a special evening!”
“I was there yesterday and had the Killer BLAT I didn't know if I would like it but turns out I loved it and I will return it was so good. It's a great place that you have to try.”
New Restaurants
“Our neighborhood finally has a new gem of a restaurant! Everything about this spot is wonderful. The attention to detail in the decor (cozy fireplace, exposed brick, distressed woodwork, leaf-shaped cushions, gold silverware, plants galore) is transportive. The food is ravishingly fresh and thoughtfully prepared. On two different visits, we shared Market Salads, Chia Bowls, Yogurt Bowls, and Lava Eggs. Tanzie, the owner, is delightful, and you can tell she has a hand in every dish. My 8-year-old, who is a very picky eater, loved the yogurt bowl, eggs, and especially the Thai Beignets! Finally, a brunch I can look forward to, a few steps from my house...”
“Took a risk on this place despite it being too new to have reviews, and I'm very glad I did. The restaurant has a cozy vibe with Karam boards and complimentary chai. Server was extremely nice, and even gave me complimentary rice with my appetizer. Food was also very good. I got the Fried Momo and the Chili Paneer. All felt like it was freshly prepared and had good quality ingredients. Definitely going back for a more complete meal.”
“Located in the old Chinese Express spot (RIP) -- this place is clean and fast! Generous portions, and they have mini plates if you want less food. I imagine it's great for students living around there. Tried it on a whim, as I was really craving some chicken katsu. The only reason I am giving four stars and not five is because the chicken katsu sauce was lose money.... a total miss. It was watery, and didn't taste at all like the ketchup + worcestershire sauce mixture that katsu sauce is supposed to taste like. It was just weird. No big deal -- I just made my own -- but this is a critical part of a chicken katsu plate! Please fix this, Moku BBQ, so that people can properly enjoy chicken katsu. Otherwise, I was satisfied (as satisfied as I can reasonably expect to be, eating "Hawaiian BBQ" anywhere outside of Hawaii). If you're from Hawaii and want to eat katsu, you can get some passable katsu here -- but be prepared to make your own sauce.”
“we had an early dinner here and it was fabulous. The appetizers - fried zucchini and antipasti were delicious. The pizza we got - the Cablecar was quite nice. The pizza dough is amazing and the toppings were very tasty. The caccio pepe in the cheese round was delicious - could use a little more pepper and a little more pecorino - but very special and wonderful!”
“I ordered takeout from this place and the delivery was very quick! The food packaging ensured that the food was still warm when it arrived. I ordered the BBQ and Louisiana Rub sauce chicken and my favorite was definitely the Louisiana Rub. Cajun fries came along with the order and they weren't as flavorful as I expected. Overall, I enjoyed the chicken and perfect for a late night craving!”
“Brief Summary: - Good tea and fruit combination - Has anime collaborations - there are tables and seats to sit inside I drank one of their drinks a couple months ago and I love their strong fruit flavor mixed well with the tea. When they announced that they are having a SPYxFAMILY collaboration, I scheduled one of my weekends to attend it. According to their social media app, this is the first wave and the second wave will come later in the month. I'm hoping that the second wave contains merchandise. I believe these anime collaborations last a month. The one I didn't attend to was the Jujutsukaisen collaboration, and that one was also a month long if I recall. Since it was the SPYxFAMILY drink, of course I got two of the limited edition drinks, which were Loid and Yor's theme. I feel The Alley has a good taste in matching the tea with the character because it indeed fit the color and the flavor choice. A refreshing and light drink for Loid and a deep dark color with a round sweetness for Yor. I'm looking forward to see what they will plan to create for Anya's drink.”
“the shared plates and appetizers here are amazing. it's actually very reasonable to have a family style meal here and I would definitely recommend doing so over getting the sushi individually. the eggplant, brussels sprouts, tofu mushroom pockets, and katsu are my go-to.”