I have been here a few times and each experience has been enjoyable. The dishes are complex with delicate flavors. Some very creative pairings in play like the anchovy crusted lamb with fennel and pear salad herb sauce or a squid ink dressed salad. My favorite for this month is the sake poached mussels with strawberries. The sweet and tart with the savory broth complimented extremely well with each other. The uni cream with the black garlic rice that went with the ocean trout was also memorable. Only thing is plating-wise for some of these dishes - it could use a little umph. Overall the dishes here are delicious, I can't wait to see what's on the next menu.
Guiselle Carreon
Nice ambience, good coffee.
Eric Strellis
Good coffee. Friendly staff
Alyson C.
I came here for a birthday party with a pre fixe menu, and it didn't disappoint! The service was great, the outdoor setting is really cute, and we gobbled up our food! Very hefty on the avocado and a really yummy waffle. I would come back to check out their other menu items for sure. Only con; limited parking
cherylc
Really interesting dishes without being pretentious. Love the back patio with heat lamps. Everything we had was delicious and our server was great. Would definitely come back again.
Reeve
As usual, the food was top notch. One of the best meals I've had this year. Even the items that seem to be common when read on the menu are spectacular when they arrive on the plate.
MariannaZ
Abstract Table is one of my favorite tucked away Berkeley restaurants. The lush garden patio is spacious and perfect for warm or cool nights (there are heaters to keep it cozy), and the frequently rotating menu is always remarkable. The menu features the most creative dishes, with always fresh and seasonal ingredients, a rare find in Berkeley. Highlights: The mouthwatering seafood selection and soups (the savory 'cappucinos' are a must order!). This is one of the only places where I always save room dessert. Quality price point, perfect for groups or a romantic dinner!
TedC
First to note is that all the tables are outside and not particularly nice. Just cheap metal tables. The fog rolled in and we were all cold despite the single heater in the middle of the space. My mom's wine had turners to vinegar and my glass of red wine was ice ice cold. Clearly it was an open bottle that just came out of the fridge. All the food was mediocre to bad. It looked nice but the taste just wasn't there.
Sarah Daisey
I was a little skeptical of this restaurant as reviews were polarizing and it had plenty of availability on a Friday night. However, I was attracted to the artsy food photos and the description of the greenhouse dining experience, which sounded like something I would love. But as soon as I arrived I regretted my choice. There was only one other table eating on very ugly metal tables and chairs, no music and no ambiance. At that point I wanted to leave but my boyfriend said let’s just stay. I wish we had left.It took a while for the one server to acknowledge us and we finally took our seats. Despite sitting under a heater I was pretty chilly most of the dinner. It was dark so I couldn’t see the gardens referred to in the description but I must say the greenhouse looks much prettier during the day.The food was just ok but the prices were a scandal. We spent $180 on 2 appetizers, the steak and 2 glasses of wine. We would not have been upset at the price had everything been delicious but everything was extremely mediocre. The California Pinot noir ($15 a glass) lacked body, the scallop crudo was a bit fishy, the bok Choy was not very interesting and came with these super hard large croutons (see photo), and the meat, which was supposedly Wagyu, certainly didn’t taste like it.There are so many wonderful restaurants in Berkeley, don’t waste your $ on this one.
I was a little skeptical of this restaurant as reviews were polarizing and it had plenty of availability on a Friday night. However, I was attracted to the artsy food photos and the description of the greenhouse dining experience, which sounded like something I would love. But as soon as I arrived I regretted my choice. There was only one other table eating on very ugly metal tables and chairs, no music and no ambiance. At that point I wanted to leave but my boyfriend said let's just stay. I wish we had left. It took a while for the one server to acknowledge us and we finally took our seats. Despite sitting under a heater I was pretty chilly most of the dinner. It was dark so I couldn't see the gardens referred to in the description but I must say the greenhouse looks much prettier during the day. The food was just ok but the prices were a scandal. We spent $180 on 2 appetizers, the steak and 2 glasses of wine. We would not have been upset at the price had everything been delicious but everything was extremely mediocre. The California Pinot noir ($15 a glass) lacked body, the scallop crudo was a bit fishy, the bok Choy was not very interesting and came with these super hard large croutons (see photo), and the meat, which was supposedly Wagyu, certainly didn't taste like it. There are so many wonderful restaurants in Berkeley, don't waste your $ on this one.
I loved this place. My biggest issue was the dessert. Everything was fabulous until then. The desert was a fail and I was so disappointed as it was the last thing I ate and the thing I remember the most. The appetizers were amazing, as well as our entrees. It was quite a bit pricey but such a fun experience with such creative dishes! I will come back, but not order dessert.
Bridge M.
Friendly service, wonderful hidden garden environment, and creative dining. Andrew and team work very hard and are always looking to innovate; so there's bound to be a "miss" every once in a while. But on the whole every meal I've had here has had at least one moment of surprise/culinary inspiration that will keep me coming back to discover what the team has created next. Perhaps not the go-to place if you're looking for something super-consistent (there are other places I'd recommend for more no-nonsense perfect execution dining), but if you're up for an adventure I definitely recommend. They are also great at working with private/group events, even developing custom menu items!
J M.
Every time I read a Yelp review that says "food was fine, but over priced," I always default to thinking, "you cheap b*stard, you're just not used to the high prices of fine dining." So I will preface this review by saying we have eaten at many Michelin starred restaurants, and have happily paid the price for an outstanding meal. We were super excited because the menu looks so creative and inventive, but the food was about a 6/10 in my book (5 being satisfactory). The meal was fine, it had good flavors, but... definitely not on par with the prices. Nearly $70 for the bison and $55 for the fish. At those prices I expect a meal that is exceptional, and it was just... not. We left feeling pretty underwhelmed. However the service was friendly and attentive, and the food came out quickly. I think they did a great job with the outdoor setting. The tables and chairs are casual, which does not bother me at all. Beautiful hanging succulents and chandeliers. Good spot for a date night if you're OK with spending $$$$ on an average meal.
Thomas Lextrait
I dined at Abstract Table on 7/9/22 at 8:30pm with my wife. This is pretty negative so I'll just keep it to the facts so readers can make their own judgement, although keep in mind it's not easy to put two toddlers to sleep, get a nanny, make a road trip to have a night out twice a year at a nice place. This was also my birthday. Restaurant isn't accountable for those of course, Im just saying I'm not out to visit all restaurants and blast them online.The setting was really nice, they have a beautiful patio. However it was pretty cold sitting outside (no indoor dining) and uncomfortable on steel chairs. There are rats running in between the tables and the waiter seemed used to it. The drinks menu has no cocktails and a very limited selection of wines.I had the $67 bison rib-eye. It was a very low quality piece of meat, I had to spit part of it. It was so salty it was essentially inedible, though given my hunger I still had half of it. The fries were also too salty, nearly inedible.To be clear I didn't ask for a discount or for any freebies, and I don't want anything for writing this. I don't complain for getting a free meal, I'm only trying to save people from visiting what's clearly a show, a hobby run by amateurs who make good looking food in a nice setting, charge Michelin star prices, and whose egos make them believe they're worth it.
April Aguilar
Delicious food and friendly service! The vegetarian dishes were especially good. The roasted roasted corn chowder “cappuccino” and a smoked lions mane mushroom were outstanding. The restaurant is located thru a cafe, in the garden behind the shop. You’ll be surrounded by an eclectic assortment of plants from manzanita, lemon balm and mint to succulents, flowering maple and anthuriums. Dress code is casual, street parking was easy to find, I recommend stopping by!
I have been here a few times and each experience has been enjoyable. The dishes are complex with delicate flavors. Some very creative pairings in play like the anchovy crusted lamb with fennel and pear salad herb sauce or a squid ink dressed salad. My favorite for this month is the sake poached mussels with strawberries. The sweet and tart with the savory broth complimented extremely well with each other. The uni cream with the black garlic rice that went with the ocean trout was also memorable. Only thing is plating-wise for some of these dishes - it could use a little umph. Overall the dishes here are delicious, I can't wait to see what's on the next menu.
Nice ambience, good coffee.
Good coffee. Friendly staff
I came here for a birthday party with a pre fixe menu, and it didn't disappoint! The service was great, the outdoor setting is really cute, and we gobbled up our food! Very hefty on the avocado and a really yummy waffle. I would come back to check out their other menu items for sure. Only con; limited parking
Really interesting dishes without being pretentious. Love the back patio with heat lamps. Everything we had was delicious and our server was great. Would definitely come back again.
As usual, the food was top notch. One of the best meals I've had this year. Even the items that seem to be common when read on the menu are spectacular when they arrive on the plate.
Abstract Table is one of my favorite tucked away Berkeley restaurants. The lush garden patio is spacious and perfect for warm or cool nights (there are heaters to keep it cozy), and the frequently rotating menu is always remarkable. The menu features the most creative dishes, with always fresh and seasonal ingredients, a rare find in Berkeley. Highlights: The mouthwatering seafood selection and soups (the savory 'cappucinos' are a must order!). This is one of the only places where I always save room dessert. Quality price point, perfect for groups or a romantic dinner!
First to note is that all the tables are outside and not particularly nice. Just cheap metal tables. The fog rolled in and we were all cold despite the single heater in the middle of the space. My mom's wine had turners to vinegar and my glass of red wine was ice ice cold. Clearly it was an open bottle that just came out of the fridge. All the food was mediocre to bad. It looked nice but the taste just wasn't there.
I was a little skeptical of this restaurant as reviews were polarizing and it had plenty of availability on a Friday night. However, I was attracted to the artsy food photos and the description of the greenhouse dining experience, which sounded like something I would love. But as soon as I arrived I regretted my choice. There was only one other table eating on very ugly metal tables and chairs, no music and no ambiance. At that point I wanted to leave but my boyfriend said let’s just stay. I wish we had left.It took a while for the one server to acknowledge us and we finally took our seats. Despite sitting under a heater I was pretty chilly most of the dinner. It was dark so I couldn’t see the gardens referred to in the description but I must say the greenhouse looks much prettier during the day.The food was just ok but the prices were a scandal. We spent $180 on 2 appetizers, the steak and 2 glasses of wine. We would not have been upset at the price had everything been delicious but everything was extremely mediocre. The California Pinot noir ($15 a glass) lacked body, the scallop crudo was a bit fishy, the bok Choy was not very interesting and came with these super hard large croutons (see photo), and the meat, which was supposedly Wagyu, certainly didn’t taste like it.There are so many wonderful restaurants in Berkeley, don’t waste your $ on this one.
I was a little skeptical of this restaurant as reviews were polarizing and it had plenty of availability on a Friday night. However, I was attracted to the artsy food photos and the description of the greenhouse dining experience, which sounded like something I would love. But as soon as I arrived I regretted my choice. There was only one other table eating on very ugly metal tables and chairs, no music and no ambiance. At that point I wanted to leave but my boyfriend said let's just stay. I wish we had left. It took a while for the one server to acknowledge us and we finally took our seats. Despite sitting under a heater I was pretty chilly most of the dinner. It was dark so I couldn't see the gardens referred to in the description but I must say the greenhouse looks much prettier during the day. The food was just ok but the prices were a scandal. We spent $180 on 2 appetizers, the steak and 2 glasses of wine. We would not have been upset at the price had everything been delicious but everything was extremely mediocre. The California Pinot noir ($15 a glass) lacked body, the scallop crudo was a bit fishy, the bok Choy was not very interesting and came with these super hard large croutons (see photo), and the meat, which was supposedly Wagyu, certainly didn't taste like it. There are so many wonderful restaurants in Berkeley, don't waste your $ on this one.
Restaurantji Recommends
I loved this place. My biggest issue was the dessert. Everything was fabulous until then. The desert was a fail and I was so disappointed as it was the last thing I ate and the thing I remember the most. The appetizers were amazing, as well as our entrees. It was quite a bit pricey but such a fun experience with such creative dishes! I will come back, but not order dessert.
Friendly service, wonderful hidden garden environment, and creative dining. Andrew and team work very hard and are always looking to innovate; so there's bound to be a "miss" every once in a while. But on the whole every meal I've had here has had at least one moment of surprise/culinary inspiration that will keep me coming back to discover what the team has created next. Perhaps not the go-to place if you're looking for something super-consistent (there are other places I'd recommend for more no-nonsense perfect execution dining), but if you're up for an adventure I definitely recommend. They are also great at working with private/group events, even developing custom menu items!
Every time I read a Yelp review that says "food was fine, but over priced," I always default to thinking, "you cheap b*stard, you're just not used to the high prices of fine dining." So I will preface this review by saying we have eaten at many Michelin starred restaurants, and have happily paid the price for an outstanding meal. We were super excited because the menu looks so creative and inventive, but the food was about a 6/10 in my book (5 being satisfactory). The meal was fine, it had good flavors, but... definitely not on par with the prices. Nearly $70 for the bison and $55 for the fish. At those prices I expect a meal that is exceptional, and it was just... not. We left feeling pretty underwhelmed. However the service was friendly and attentive, and the food came out quickly. I think they did a great job with the outdoor setting. The tables and chairs are casual, which does not bother me at all. Beautiful hanging succulents and chandeliers. Good spot for a date night if you're OK with spending $$$$ on an average meal.
I dined at Abstract Table on 7/9/22 at 8:30pm with my wife. This is pretty negative so I'll just keep it to the facts so readers can make their own judgement, although keep in mind it's not easy to put two toddlers to sleep, get a nanny, make a road trip to have a night out twice a year at a nice place. This was also my birthday. Restaurant isn't accountable for those of course, Im just saying I'm not out to visit all restaurants and blast them online.The setting was really nice, they have a beautiful patio. However it was pretty cold sitting outside (no indoor dining) and uncomfortable on steel chairs. There are rats running in between the tables and the waiter seemed used to it. The drinks menu has no cocktails and a very limited selection of wines.I had the $67 bison rib-eye. It was a very low quality piece of meat, I had to spit part of it. It was so salty it was essentially inedible, though given my hunger I still had half of it. The fries were also too salty, nearly inedible.To be clear I didn't ask for a discount or for any freebies, and I don't want anything for writing this. I don't complain for getting a free meal, I'm only trying to save people from visiting what's clearly a show, a hobby run by amateurs who make good looking food in a nice setting, charge Michelin star prices, and whose egos make them believe they're worth it.
Delicious food and friendly service! The vegetarian dishes were especially good. The roasted roasted corn chowder “cappuccino” and a smoked lions mane mushroom were outstanding. The restaurant is located thru a cafe, in the garden behind the shop. You’ll be surrounded by an eclectic assortment of plants from manzanita, lemon balm and mint to succulents, flowering maple and anthuriums. Dress code is casual, street parking was easy to find, I recommend stopping by!