| Henry's | |
| 2600 Durant Ave. | 809-4132 |
| While Henry's name is the same, the hotel is now The Graduate. At present open only for dinner, it offers a more upscale atmosphere and a well known chef. The dinner menu offers a small selection of burgers, sandwiches and some main dishes, all moderately priced. Breakfast offerings are as expected. Let's hope they open for lunch. | |
| Mezzo | |
| 2442 Telegraph Ave. north of Haste | 849-4592 |
| This favorite campus hangout has returned, rebuilt after a fire. The decoration is spare, clean and modern although noisy. What brings the crowds and long lines are the enormous salads and sandwiches, all delicious and well priced. If you haven't been to this place, this is the time to go. Since the space is shared with Raleigh's, you should take your food out to the great back patio, and enjoy the quiet while indulging yourself. | |
| Raleigh’s Pub | |
| 2438 Telegraph Ave. | 280-5319 |
| Sharing space with Mezzo, this lively brew pub is now back in business, offering a variety of beers as well as wine. A limited menu offers well portioned really tasty food to go with the drinks. Prices are very moderate, and the service friendly. What makes this place so special though is the wonderful huge back patio, an oasis of calm away from the noise of Telegraph. | |
| Kirala | |
| 2100 Ward St. on Shattuck | 549-3486 |
| This is a popular Japanese restaurant, with a sake bar and robata grill. The decor is modern, the service quick, and the food good, if slightly pricey. It's best to order a selection of sushi or small plates of grilled food. The more traditional choices are not as tasty or well made. There's a lively crowd, and the noise level gets high when this place is crowded, which is most of the time. | |
| Shen Hua | |
| 2914 College Ave. north of Ashby | 883-1777 |
| This is a large modern Chinese restaurant in the Elmwood area. Very noisy when crowded, it offers a varied menu, and the cooking level is decent, although the dim sum is below par. The daily specials are worth a try. The prices are definitely upscale, but the portions are generous. The atmosphere is usually welcoming and service is swift, except when it is crowded. Open for lunch also, when it is quieter. | |
| La Mediterranee | |
| 2936 College Ave. north of Ashby | 540-7773 |
| Middle Eastern food in the Elmwood, moderately priced, good for families. Open for lunch and dinner. There is a street-side patio which is heated and can be very pleasant in the evenings or late mornings. Service is very quick and friendly. The portions are large, but the food tends to be heavy and not very refined. There are lots of vegetarian choices, too. This place gets very crowded on weekend nights, so there is often a wait. | |
| Rick and Ann's | |
| 2922 Domingo St. opposite Claremont Hotel | 649-8538 |
| A very informal American place for terrific breakfasts, good lunches, and decent dinners. Some outdoor tables for sunny days. Prices moderate. This is a good place for families with children, since the choices range from hamburgers to more sophisticated fare. The classic dishes on the main menu are preferable to the specials. The place is crowded on weekend mornings. | |
| Donato | |
| 2635 Ashby Ave. below College | 838-1131 |
| This is a place that is architecturally beautiful, with upscale Rustic Italian food, not yet great, but pretty good if you order well. Prices are moderately high, but the atmosphere is pleasant and the noise level manageable. Open for lunch and brunch also, it's worth a visit. | |
| Trattoria La Siciliana | |
| 2993 College Ave. south of Ashby | 704-1474 |
| Italian, in Elmwood, this small two level storefront cafe is popular, and very noisy. What draws the crowds are large portions of hearty garlic infused pastas, along with salads, antipasti, and meat and fish dishes. The prices are moderate. Service can be slow, so be prepared. Open for dinner only, when there is often a line waiting outside. | |
Downtown |
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| La Note | |
| 2377 Shattuck Ave. south of Durant | 843-1525 |
| A charming Provençal cafe, open for breakfast, lunch and weekend brunch, with dinner on the weekend. The food reflects good ingredients, with large portions of salads and sandwiches big enough for two people. Lunch and dinner entrees are somewhat more expensive, and not especially refined. A small wine list, fairly priced. Service is good. A peaceful sunny patio out back is ideal for lunch or brunch in the summer months. | |
| Namaste Madras Cuisine | |
| 2323 Shattuck Ave. just south of Bancroft | 898-1291 |
| A South Indian restaurant in an old bank building. The vast space lends itself to well spaced tables and quiet conversation. The large menu features decent South Indian food with all the familiar favorites, such as dosas and uttapam. Service is friendly, but at times can be slow. There is beer and wine. Prices are moderate. There are usually daily low priced specials as well as a lunch buffet. This is a good choice for large groups. | |
| Toss Noodle Bar | |
| 2272 Shattuck Ave. | 845-8677 |
| An unassuming small storefront, easy to miss, located near the downtown theaters, this place offers surprisingly good low priced South East Asian food. You design your own dish at the counter, by choosing a starch base of noodles or rice, then add on a protein and a flavor sauce. This can be served as a soup or stir fry -- either way, the portions are generous and the flavors delicious. A few appetizers and salads round out the menu. Beer and wine also. | |
| Noodle Theory | |
| 6099 Claremont Ave. at College | 595-6988 |
| If you love noodles and vivid fresh flavors this is the place for you. A small pie shaped modern space, with some outdoor tables for warm days, the food is well cooked with nice Asian fusion touches, balanced and subtly spiced. Lots of vegetarian choices also. The prices are very reasonable for the quality of the food. Service can falter when the place is crowded, but it's worth the wait. | |
| Angeline's Louisiana Kitchen | |
| 2261 Shattuck Ave. north of Bancroft | 548-6900 |
| In a convenient downtown location, you will find this informal very popular restaurant featuring the cuisine of Louisiana. Red brick walls, photos of New Orleans, and jazz music enhance the food experience. The portions are large, but it's very noisy. The hush puppies are really good, as is the gumbo, jambalaya, Po-boys, and fried oysters. People rave about the barbecued ribs, too. Prices are moderate. A great place for lunch or dinner. There's even Louisiana beer. | |
| Maîson Bleue | |
| 2020 Kittredge St. near the library | 900-1845 |
| This simple cafe, with a beautiful leafy patio offers a taste of France in downtown Berkeley. Open for breakfast and lunch, and until 7:30 PM on Friday and Saturday. The menu features truly authentic crepes, both savory and sweet, a few salads, sandwiches and omelets. Everything is delicious. Service is leisurely, so sit back, relax, and enjoy this little haven of peace and quiet. | |
| Great China | |
| 2190 Bancroft Way at Oxford | 843-7996 |
| Probably the best Chinese food in Berkeley, especially the best Peking Duck in the area. Eager diners line up before the restaurant opens at 5 PM. Near the downtown theaters, crowded and noisy, it is popular with Asian families and students. The menu features dishes that you cannot find elsewhere. Service is quick and impersonal. Also a good place for lunch, with reasonable prices and generous servings. Large groups can make a reservation. | |
| Gather | |
| 2200 Oxford St. at Allston Way | 809-0400 |
| Popular, with a mix of pricey locally sourced food, this place has a new chef, and a somewhat expended menu. It still offers vegan and gluten free options. Some unusual food combinations, but most people order the pizza which in my opinion is just average. Open for weekend brunch and lunch too. Atmosphere is informal, but it can get very noisy when crowded. Best to opt for the outside patio if you can, and order just a salad and a pizza. | |
| Cancún | |
| 2134 Allston Way btw. Oxford and Shattuck | 549-0964 |
| A downtown favorite of many, this extremely informal Mexican cafe offers a wide variety of generously portioned decent, if not great, inexpensive food. You order at the counter, and service is quick. A plus is the serve yourself salsa bar, with a large choice of sauces of varying spiciness. This place can get very crowded and noisy at lunch when the hordes of students descend, so go at an off hour or for dinner! | |
| East Bay Spice Company | |
| 2134 Oxford St. south of Center | 845-4427 |
| This place features a large bar downstairs with a terrific array of cocktails, crowded, noisy and popular on most nights, but upstairs you will find tasty Indian small plates, moderately priced. There is now a parklet out front. One of the few downtown places that is open very late, too. | |
| Jupiter and Panini | |
| 2181 Shattuck Ave. | 843-8277 |
| Jupiter is a 2 level brew pub and restaurant, in an historic Berkeley building. There is a terrific heated patio out back, which is popular for large groups. Most people order one of the interesting moderately priced pizzas. Usually crowded, this place is very noisy inside. In the same courtyard is Panini, a sister cafe, where during the week you order sandwiches, soups, and salads at the counter -- good and not expensive for lunch. | |
| Eureka! | |
| 2068 Center St. west of Shattuck | 809-8282 |
| This popular downtown place has beautiful architecture and a large array of cocktails, beer and wine. In addition there is a food menu with many choices, but variable quality. The thing to order here is one of the burgers and some fries, period. Be forewarned that there are a large number of TV screens throughout and it's pretty noisy. Service is very friendly, but if you want quiet, come for lunch. | |
| Cu | |
| 2152 Center St. below Oxford | 704-1814 |
| Join the crowds of students sitting throughout the day at the outdoor tables in front of this small place close to campus, and feast on pretty good well priced sushi. There's a permanent 50% off price for the simpler sushi. The creative and delicious fancier rolls are more expensive but worth the price. There are salads, and rice and noodle dishes too, but in my opinion you should stick to the sushi. | |
| Ippuku | |
| 2130 Center St. | 665-1969 |
| This is Berkeley's first Izakaya, a Japanese version of a gathering place for relaxing, drinking, and snacking on small plates of food. The decor is unusual and authentic, and the experience unique. The small plates of food are delicious, carefully prepared and presented on exquisite tableware. There is a huge choice of Shochu, Japanese liquor, as well as sakes and beers. The staff is happy to advise you on what to eat and drink for a totally different experience! | |
| Revival Bar & Kitchen | |
| 2102 Shattuck Ave. at Addison | 549-9950 |
| A California-Mediterranean bistro, featuring local and organic food that can be quite variable in portion size and execution. The small plates are tastier and more inventive. This is a large and bustling place, noisy when crowded, with a busy and very popular bar. The prices are high end, including the wine. Close to downtown theaters. Open for Happy Hour and dinner only. | |
| Passione Cafe | |
| 91 Shattuck Sq. at Addison | 540-7700 |
| Formerly PIQ, this place has new owners but a very similar menu of Italian sandwiches, pizzas and flat breads, everything tasty and moderately priced. There's excellent coffee and pastries as well. The terrific outdoor patio is still there, and it is a pleasure to sit, enjoy some food, bask in he sun, and watch Berkeley walk by. | |
| Comal | |
| 2020 Shattuck Ave., west side of Shattuck Sq. | 926-6300 |
| This Latin-American restaurant is very popular hopping since day one. If you can snag a table you will be rewarded with terrific cocktails, a wide choice of tequilas, and high priced small plates to savor. It's best to stick with the Mexican items on the menu when you order. The few larger plates, meant to be shared, are pricey. The patio out back is wonderful. Open only for dinner. Adjacent is the informal Comal Next Door, open all day for order at the counter -- tacos, burritos, tortas, all delicious. | |
| Ippudo | |
| 2015 Shattuck Ave. | 666-8807 |
| Join the long lines of mostly Asian students who are patiently waiting for a chance to eat the best ramen in the East Bay at this place which is part of a Japanese chain. The decor is traditional, the staff friendly and helpful, and the prices are moderate. Choose your broth, how soft or hard you want your noodles, the degree of spiciness, and slurp away. Open throughout the day, so go at an off hour and enjoy. I love this place! | |
| Tender Greens | |
| 2071 University Ave. below Shattuck | 356-0697 |
| This large place is often crowded at lunchtime. The ordering process is confusing -- you order big plates, big salads, sandwiches, or simple salads to which you add a protein. You move down a line as your dish is prepared to the paying station where you get your drink. Portions are good and pricing reasonable. The best thing about this place, however, is the wonderful peaceful back patio. | |
| Turkish Kitchen | |
| 1986 Shattuck Ave. north of University | 540-9997 |
| Close to campus, this informal storefront place is Berkeley's only Turkish restaurant. The food is good if not terrific, and there are some unusual choices. Prices are moderate. The owners and servers are friendly, and willingly explain the menu to neophytes. It is popular at lunch, but quieter at dinner, if you can ignore the ever present TV. It is one of my favorite downtown places for a quick informal and delicious meal. | |
| Sweetgreen | |
| 1890 Shattuck Ave. at Hearst | 990-8262 |
| This small place is crowded at lunchtime, offering healthy bowls of salads or grains, with various toppings, generally locally sourced. The portions are substantial, and the pricing a little high, but you can feel virtuous in the knowledge that you are eating a healthy meal. You order at the counter and watch as your meal is custom made just for you. Much less hectic and noisy at dinner time. Some nice outdoor tables and a few parking spots in back, accessed from Shattuck. | |
| Triple Rock Brewery | |
| 1920 Shattuck Ave. one block north of Univ. | 843-2739 |
| A busy hangout not far from campus. Beer and ale made on the premises. A recent expansion next door has opened up a welcome additional space, with industrial decor. The Pub food is surprisingly good -- excellent sandwiches and great soups and chili, in large portions and moderately priced. Very informal atmosphere. Open every day. | |
| GeckoGecko | |
| 2101 Milvia St. at Addison | 665-4811 |
| Across from the Aurora and Berkeley Rep, and down the street from Freight and Salvage, this small Thai California fusion place is a nice addition to downtown. The food is pretty good, the prices moderate, the portions generous, but spicing is fairly mild. If you want spicy, ask for it! Atmosphere is bright, clean, and modern, and the service solicitous. | |
| Brazil Cafe | |
| 1960 University Ave. btw. Milvia & Bonita | 845-1056 |
| This is a larger location for Pedros Brazil Cafe, which now has a beautiful rose garden back patio on which to enjoy the enormous sandwiches, salads, and rice bowls that have made this place beloved by many. Prices are moderate, the food is well seasoned and very tasty, and it is a great place for lunch or even dinner. | |
| The Butcher's Son | |
| 1954 University Ave. | 984-0818 |
| In a location with a larger space and and a beautiful back patio is this 100% Vegan cafe/restaurant. The food is surprisingly good, the portions large, and the prices moderate. There is also a small area with products for sale. Try it for an interesting and healthy lunch or dinner, when you want something totally different. | |
| Lucia's | |
| 2016 Shattuck Ave. south of University | 225-9467 |
| This place offers a large variety of traditional Neapolitan New York style thin crust pizza, along with a few appetizers, pastas. and salads. The "white" pizzas are unusual and tasty. They also offer gluten free choices. Since it is a small space and located near the theaters, it is often crowded. If you are used to heavily sauced thick crust pizza you will be disappointed. Open only for dinner. | |
West Side |
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| Pho An Sen | |
| 655 San Pablo Ave. north of Portland | 679-5000 |
| This place offers large bowls of Pho with your choice of a variety of meats, all pretty tasty, along with a number of other Vietnamese standards, such as fresh rolls, rice plates or noodle salads, all good and not too expensive. Easy parking in the adjacent large parking lot, this is a good choice for when you do not want to fight the crowds and parking in Chinatown. | |
| Stella Nonna | |
| 1407 San Pablo Ave. btw. Cedar and Gilman | 524-3400 |
| This is an architecturally stunning place, set back from the street with subtle signage, with California-eclectic cuisine, moderately priced. There's a small outdoor patio, the interior has well spaced tables, the service is friendly and professional, and it is ideal for conversation. Open for lunch some days too. Unfortunately my last visit was a disappointment, and what was once a favorite is no longer so. Let's hope this is a temporary situation. | |
| Anchalee Thai | |
| 1096 Dwight Way below San Pablo | 848-4015 |
| This place has been at this location for some tine, and it is a fine venue for lunch or dinner. The food is tasty, portions quite large, and prices moderate. It rarely gets noisy, and it is good for either small or large groups. Nothing revolutionary or hip, just a good solid choice. | |
| La Marcha | |
| 2026 San Pablo Ave. south of Univ. | 647-9525 |
| This is one of the noisiest restaurants in town when crowded. However, if you can tolerate the wall of sound you will find an array of delicious tapas, as well as large portions of paella to share. Everything is quite delicious and only a little pricey. Decor is modern, service is friendly and good. Reservations are recommended at dinner. Better to go either early or late, when there is a great Happy Hour menu, prices are lower, and the atmosphere more laid back. | |
| Paisan | |
| 2514 San Pablo Ave. at Blake | 649-1031 |
| This place calls itself a pizzeria, but the pizzas do not always shine. Better to choose from the array of antipasti and other dishes, all of them decent if not great, and moderately priced. Cocktails and wine complement the food. The outdoor patio is delightful in warm weather, and preferable to the noisy indoor area. This is a good place for families. | |
| Longbranch | |
| 2512 San Pablo Ave. south of Dwight Way | 984-0518 |
| This place offers a large bar with an emphasis on the many choices of whisky, bourbon and rye, as well as beer and wine, but the food is surprisingly really good, and the atmosphere informal and welcoming. It's fun to try a "flight" of liquor, beer or wine along with the food. | |
| 900 Grayson | |
| 900 Grayson St. at 7th | 704-9900 |
| In an industrial part of town and open for breakfast and lunch only, this is a popular and "with it" place offering cool decor and moderately priced delicious California food with an Asian touch. The menu terms are somewhat whimsical, but don't let that deter you from the terrific food. It is hectic and crowded at peak times, so go early or late, or be prepared to wait. There's a great back patio for warm sunny days, too. | |
| Mintleaf Vietnamese | |
| 2865 7th St. at Heinz | 898-1609 |
| In an out of the way location, not far from Berkeley Bowl West, is this Vietnamese place open for lunch and dinner every day. At lunch it can be crowded, with a low priced menu, generous portions and tasty food. Dinner is quieter, the prices still reasonable, and the food still pretty good. Beer and Sake are also offered. Parking in the neighborhood is not too difficult. | |
| Riva Cucina | |
| 800 Heinz Ave. at 7th | 841-7482 |
| Out of the way, hidden inside a plaza in West Berkeley, is this delightful quiet place featuring the food of Northern Italy. Everything is really delicious, the prices are moderate for the quality, and it is an undiscovered gem. The fish dishes are especially good. Open for lunch and dinner, but closed on Sundays. Service is professional and warm. It's definitely worth the trip to dine here. | |
| Viks Chaat Corner | |
| 2390 4th St. at Channing Way | 845-1431 |
| What entices everyone here is the menu of terrific, often spicy Indian chaat. This Berkeley institution is in a location with an expanded modern space. There's a dedicated parking lot across the street to handle the crowds that arrive for lunch and the hordes that arrive on weekends. There are also a few more substantial offerings and the menu is expanded on weekends. Lots of vegetarian choices, none expensive. Order at the counter. | |
| Iyasare | |
| 1830 4th St. | 845-8100 |
| This place is upscale, with gorgeous modern decor and food to match. The pricey Japanese food is beautifully presented and quite delicious with an interesting approach to traditional favorites. The Tempura Kakiage is a revelation. This is a place where you need to take your time and enjoy each creation and special flavor. Service is professional and it is blissfully quiet. Justly popular, so reserve. Also, consider this place for a fine lunch, when ramen is on the menu. | |
| Zut Tavern | |
| 1820 4th St. | 644-0444 |
| In this architecturally beautiful place the fare is French California Bistro. The prices are high end, the service professional. There is a large, noisy and lively bar area also, as well as outdoor tables. The food does not live up to the decor, but it is still popular and a pleasant place for lunch. There is a small less expensive late afternoon bar menu also. | |
| Bette's Ocean View Diner | |
| 1807A 4th St. | 644-3230 |
| Great '40s atmosphere complete with noisy juke box and plastic counters. A few outdoor tables offer a respite from the indoor bustle. Good fresh food, terrific American breakfasts and lunches. Very popular, there's often a wait to be seated. Not open for dinner. Located near an array of interesting and upscale shops to explore before or after a meal. Nearby is Betty's "To Go" where you can pick up all kinds of wonderful food. | |
| Tacubaya | |
| 1788 4th St. on the patio | 525-5160 |
| This popular place has moved next door, which means there is now outside seating. The menu has not changed, still offering inexpensive family friendly choices of delicious and well prepared Mexican food. You order at the counter and the food is quickly brought to your table. Think of this place when you want a quick bite in between or after shopping. | |
| Skates on the Bay | |
| 100 Seawall Drive at Berkeley Marina | 549-1900 |
| Lively bar, beautiful view. A huge restaurant with a varied menu -- something for everyone, but expensive. Although some people think the food is good, I do not agree. The clam chowder is pretty good, as is the terrific Happy Hour where the food and drinks are low priced, and you can watch the sunset. This is popular for families and young dating couples. Wide variety of beers. Serves late at night when other places are closed, but check first before going. | |
North Side |
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| North Side | |
| Euclid and Hearst | |
| In a quiet, unhurried area at the north edge of campus can be found a number of cafes and small ethnic restaurants, all of them informal, unassuming, and inexpensive. Some are clustered around a sunny deck, nice for an informal lunch. You can find pizzas, burritos, falafel, Mexican, Thai, Vietnamese, Chinese, Japanese, Indian, and Korean cooking, as well as soup and sandwiches. There is a decent espresso cafe on Euclid. | |
| Corso | |
| 1788 Shattuck Ave. north of Delaware | 704-8004 |
| In a storefront with high ceilings and modern decor is this informal place brought to us by the owners of Rivoli. It features a menu of rustic Italian food, with an emphasis on salumi. Close to campus and popular, everything is high quality. When crowded the noise level can be high. Usually busy, so reservations are advised. | |
| Cha-Ya | |
| 1686 Shattuck Ave. north of Virginia | 981-1213 |
| This is a popular Japanese vegetarian and vegan restaurant which has expanded into the space next door, resulting in less of a wait for a table at dinner. It offers a large variety of noodle dishes, sushi of all sorts, salads and soups, all creatively delicious and moderately priced. You can eat well here, and feel virtuous and healthy too. Definitely worth a try. | |
| Barney's Hamburgers | |
| 1600 Shattuck Ave. on Cedar | 849-2827 |
| A branch of a popular chain (others are on Solano Ave., Piedmont Ave., and College Ave, just north of Rockridge BART). Good for large hamburgers with all kinds of toppings, soups, large salads, milk shakes, wine and beer. The French fries are terrific, and a half-order is plenty! There's an outdoor deck for sunny days. | |
| Grégoire | |
| 2109 Cedar St. above Shattuck | 883-1893 |
| A small shack with picnic tables outside, offering upscale take-out lunch and dinner. It is enormously popular. The menu offerings change with the seasons. The prices are quite high end for take out, in my opinion, although the quality is fairly good if not great. Call ahead and bring your choices home in an esthetically pleasing box, or sit outside and join the happy people munching away. | |
| Chez Panisse | |
| 1517 Shattuck Ave. north of Cedar | 548-5525 |
| California-French, emphasizing fresh local organic food, this can be superb or merely uniquely special, depending on the set menu for the night. Good wine list. Very very expensive. Reservations imperative, far in advance, although the menu is known only one week ahead. This has become world famous, and the prices reflect the fame. There is a somewhat lower-priced set dinner on Monday nights, which can be quite wonderful. | |
| Chez Panisse Upstairs Café | |
| 1517 Shattuck Ave. north of Cedar | 548-5049 |
| Light, bright, lively, more casual dining than downstairs. Great for pizzas, soups, salads, and more sophisticated substantial fare. Everything is quite delicious. Open for lunch, dinner and later. Moderately high prices, excellent professional service. Reservations are generally required. All Berkeley seems to convene here at one time or another. | |
| César | |
| 1515 Shattuck Ave. next to Chez Panisse | 883-0222 |
| North Berkeley's place to see and be seen, this tapas bar is very popular. The menu has delicious Spanish influenced small plates, and very upscale prices. If they're on the menu, do not pass up the fried potatoes! There's a huge list of cocktails, beers, sherries, and non alcoholic drinks, as well as pricey wines. The space is beautiful. It's a lively, noisy, and eclectic crowd, with friendly seating at the bar. Open daily for lunch and dinner late into the night. | |
| Chez Lucille | |
| Berkeley near Tilden Park | unlisted |
| Wonderful food available at all hours of the day and night, emphasizing freshness, creativity, and the warmth of the chef. The cooking is California French with some vegetarian choices, but caters to all tastes. The inexpensive wine list is select and well chosen. The portions are generous and diners always take home leftovers. Everyone loves this place. Unfortunately dining is only by personal invitation of the chef. | |
| Epicurious Garden | |
| 1511 Shattuck Ave. south of Vine | |
| North Berkeley's gourmet food hall, with an assortment of stalls offering a choice of pricey food ranging from soup and sushi to gelato, chocolate, Mexican, tea and Chinese noodles. This is mostly geared for takeout, but more seating has been added, and there is also a lovely back terrace. Next door is Tiger Lily, a bistro featuring Indian food, with a nice outdoor patio. | |
| Cheese Board Pizza | |
| 1512 Shattuck Ave. south of Vine | 549-3055 |
| Follow the crowds lined up at lunchtime in front of this Berkeley institution. What they're after is a slice or two of crisp crusted pizza fresh from the oven topped creatively and always delicious. You can order a whole pie to go, but you'd miss the unique ambiance, the piano player, and the people congregating in the parklet out front. Next door is a great cheese and bread store, where you can buy the pizzas half baked. | |
| Saul's Delicatessen | |
| 1475 Shattuck Ave. north of Vine | 848-3354 |
| This is Berkeley's attempt at an East Coast Deli, and it is pretty successful. There is a large take out counter featuring all kinds of upscale treats, as well as a sit down area, and a new outdoor parklet. The pickles are not very good, but the pastrami and corned beef are better. They are making the food more local and organic, and adding Middle Eastern dishes. Prices are moderate to high, service quick. This can get crowded at peak mealtimes. | |
| Kamado SUSHI | |
| 1400 Shattuck Ave. on the island at Rose | 540-5000 |
| This Japanese restaurant has a diverse menu, reasonable prices, and fairly large portions. It offers some of the freshest and best sushi in the area. The food is exquisitely presented, and the decor is pleasant and modern, with some traditional touches. It can get noisy when crowded. Open for lunch also, it is a great choice for a fresh and tasty meal in a pleasant atmosphere. | |
| Fat Apple's | |
| 1346 Martin Luther King Way at Rose | 526-2260 |
| A place for breakfast or a hamburger and apple pie, the food is not what it once was, although people like it because it is quiet, familiar, and not expensive. Open until 9 p.m. on Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays. In an adjoining space is a bakery with pies and pastries for sale, where you can also order anything on the menu "to go". There's a branch in El Cerrito that is better, in my opinion. | |
Solano Avenue |
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| Ajanta | |
| 1888 Solano Ave. near The Alameda | 526-4373 |
| This is the best Indian restaurants in the area. The atmosphere is quiet, refined and elegant, and the spicing can be to your taste. The nan is especially good here. Each month unusual dishes from different regions are featured, and they are usually delicious. The service is personal and warm. The location is the increasingly lively upper Solano Avenue, and it's fun to stroll and shop before or after a meal. Prices moderately high for this cuisine. | |
| Zachary's Chicago Pizza | |
| 1853 Solano Ave. | 525-5950 |
| Jam-packed and informal. The specialty is stuffed thick pizza but they also have thin crust pizza. Good for take out if you can get them to answer the phone -- if not, go in person and wait your turn. During the day you can buy a very inexpensive "single slice" which makes a terrific snack, or even lunch. Kids love this place. There's now a parklet out front. The branch on College Avenue is a neighborhood hangout -- the weekend crowds there are phenomenal! | |
| Troy | |
| 1843 Solano Ave. above Colusa | 559-8769 |
| This is a sleek cafe with a bar offering traditional Mediterranean food, moderately priced, with prompt and friendly service. The portions are generous, and there's a well priced beer and wine list. The spicing tends to be fairly mild, so ask for hot sauce, salt and pepper. Unfortunately there's a large flat screen TV behind the bar, which is a distraction. However, there are a few outdoor tables if you can snag one. | |
| Vanessa's | |
| 1715 Solano Ave. at Tulare | 525-8300 |
| A terrific Vietnamese restaurant named after the chef. She cooks the food she loves, and we are lucky that she does. The place is small, and has a lovely long bar where you can have a quick informal bite if you wish, and a few outdoor tables for warm nights. The menu features beautifully seasoned small plates, generally well priced. Everyone is friendly. Recommended! Open only for dinner and a terrific Happy Hour. | |
| Akemi | |
| 1695 Solano Ave. below Tulare | 524-1286 |
| This place has an architecturally upscale feel, with lots of dark repurposed wood, dim lighting, and large flower arrangements. The food is Japanese fusion, with a large menu offering both traditional and modernized dishes with unexpected flavor combinations. There's a lovely sushi bar also, as well as many choices of sake and wine. Everything is delicious and moderately priced. Good for lunch too. | |
| Cugini | |
| 1556 Solano Ave. | 558-9000 |
| This small family run Italian restaurant is worth a try. While the menu offers an interesting choice of pastas, calamari, salads, and desserts, the thing to order here is a delicious and generously portioned Caesar salad and a pizza or calzone. Atmosphere is convivial and noisy, service friendly. It's open for lunch too, with panini, salads, and pizzas. Unfortunately, there is a TV, an unnecessary distraction, but you can escape to the outdoor tables. | |
| Rivoli | |
| 1539 Solano Ave. | 526-2542 |
| This is one of the best restaurants in town for California cuisine. The food is divine, innovative, and the prices high. The waitpersons are knowledgeable, the wines well chosen, and dining here is altogether a fine experience. Reservations imperative, since it is deservedly very popular. Although the tables are close together, and it can get very noisy, it is still one of my personal favorites. | |
| Fonda | |
| 1501-A Solano Ave. at Curtis | 559-9006 |
| Quite popular, there's a focus on small plates of South of the Border cuisine, along with special cocktails, wine and beer. The atmosphere is warm, service professional and solicitous. The prices are rather high for the portion size, but the food is well prepared, nicely spiced, and very delicious. Happy Hour is great with lots of lower priced choices. When crowded this can get very noisy. Open late, it's definitely worth a try. | |
| Bowl'd | |
| 1479 Solano Ave. at Santa Fe | 526-6223 |
| The place is modern and sleek and offers Korean food for non Koreans. There are many options of meat, rice, noodles, and vegetables as well as soups which you can mix and match to your liking. The staff is happy to explain the menu to you, as well as to describe all the panchan, or small dishes that accompany each meal. However, the food has been adapted to Western tastes, and lacks much of the fire of traditional Korean food. | |
| Delhi Diner | |
| 1373 Solano Ave. at Ramona | 528-5000 |
| This nicely decorated and quiet place offers really tasty Indian food at moderate prices. The menu offers the usual standards, but there are monthly specials that are unusual and worth trying. The service is friendly and solicitous, and it is a welcome addition to the neighborhood. Think of this place for lunch when you want something a little bit different. It is also a good place for large groups. | |
| China Village | |
| 1335 Solano Ave. at Ramona | 525-2285 |
| A modern and clean space with a large menu this place is best known for its spicy food. The usual standards are here too, but don't miss the West-style 1000 chili pepper fish filet, as well as some of the exciting and spicy Szechwan chef's specialties that are unique. Portions are generous. Prices are not that high for the quality. Beware that this can get very very noisy when crowded. It's also a good place for a low priced, generously portioned lunch. | |
| Little Star Pizza | |
| 1181 Solano Ave. | 526-7827 |
| This pizzeria has a menu featuring just a few salads, garlic bread, sandwiches, spicy chicken wings and lots and lots of pizza, both thin crust and deep dish. The pizza is good, and the thin crust is one of the best in the area. It's fairly pricey, but worth it. It's very informal, crowded at peak dining times, and enormously popular with families, so be advised. Some outdoor tables for warm weather too. | |
| Bua Luang | |
| 1166 Solano Ave | 527-8288 |
| This is a place to consider when you are looking for pretty good Thai food, large portions, friendly service, and a quiet atmosphere. Nothing spectacular, but definitely worth a visit when you are in the neighborhood. Prices are moderate. Think of this place for takeout, also. | |
| Zaytoon | |
| 1133 Solano Ave. east of Kains | 898-1316 |
| This restaurant is a most welcome addition to the neighborhood. Beautiful decor, a large bar, and fairly quiet when it is not too crowded. The food is Mediterranean, with many interesting small plates. The main courses are huge, easily enough for 2 people. Service is professional, the atmosphere welcoming, but prices are moderately high. A good place for lunch, also. | |
| Rendez-Vous | |
| 1111 Solano Ave. above San Pablo | 527-4111 |
| This friendly French Bistro is a welcome place on lower Solano Avenue. Open for lunch and dinner, as well as brunch, the food is influenced by the flavors of France, and it is decent, if not great, and moderately priced. The vegetarian offerings are generally tasty. Lunch is variable in quality. The atmosphere is informal and there are some outdoor tables for warm days. The service is slow and can be disorganized. | |
| Aangan | |
| 856 San Pablo Ave. just north of Solano | 524-2220 |
| The owner comes from Viks Chaat Corner, and the food at this Indo-Nepalese place is pretty decent but not of the same caliber. But, there's a bonus of table service as well as alcohol. The prices are moderate, and the owner and his family all work to please you. Lots of vegetarian options as well. This is a good place for a snack, lunch, or dinner if you happen to be in the neighborhood, but do not make a special trip to eat here. | |
| Juanita & Maude | |
| 825 San Pablo Ave. north of Solano | 526-2233 |
| This place is one of the best restaurants in Albany. Delicious, eclectic California food, with a changing menu depending on what is fresh and in season. Portions are good size, and worth the somewhat high prices. Desserts are terrific too, as is the unusual wine and cocktail list. | |
| Lalime's Cafe | |
| 1329 Gilman St. in Albany | 527-9838 |
| Still good, although no longer at the top of my list. The concept has changed to a large menu of small plates, often very tasty and creative, along with a few larger plates. The main dining room is a lovely space, with professional service. A terrific addition is a wonderful outdoor patio where you can eat and enjoy a glass or two of good wine. This is still a fine choice for a special occasion and for entertaining visitors. | |
| Westbrae Biergarten | |
| 1280 Gilman Street at Curtis | |
| This is one of Berkeley's first outdoor beer gardens, part of a Bay Area trend of places offering lots of beer with informal food choices. There's a large area filled with picnic tables, chairs, and greenery where you can relax, drink a huge mug of beer, and eat some food too. There is a kiosk from the Brazil Cafe for your food orders. Instantly popular, especially with families, and a welcome addition to the neighborhood. | |
| Lama Bean's | |
| 1290 6th St. at Gilman | 528-3435 |
| Formerly called Jimmy Bean's. A very informal cafe, open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner on most nights. In the daytime you order at the counter, but there's table service from 5 p.m. on. The menu has flavorful soups, salads, sandwiches, and quesadillas, as well as omelets, fruits and drinks. Prices are moderate, but dinner specials are slightly more expensive. A less expensive three course dinner is available most nights. A few outdoor tables. This place is good for takeout. | |
| Picante Taqueria | |
| 1328 6th St. south of Gilman | 525-3121 |
| Out of the way, but still very popular, with a wide choice of burritos, tacos, quesadillas, tostadas, and other platos. There's beer as well as wine margaritas. The cooking is fairly westernized, and the spicing pretty mild. Prices are moderate, and there is a fun informal atmosphere. Order at the counter, sit and enjoy. There's a lovely patio for sunny lunches. Also good for take out. Dress down for this place! | |
| Kensington Circus | |
| Colusa Circle in Kensington | 524-8814 |
| A British restaurant with a very informal atmosphere, a varied menu, good salads, hamburgers, shepherd's pie, and fish and chips. There's a nice pub type bar on the premises too. This is especially child friendly, complete with toys. Prices are moderate. A very likable, comfortable place, in an out of the way spot, but fairly noisy. | |
| Pacific East Mall | |
| 3288 Pierce St. on the Bay side of Albany Hill | 527-3000 |
| Forget the airline ticket and get yourself to this huge Asian Mall to experience culture shock cheaply. At the center is an immense supermarket with completely unfamiliar items, a busy take out counter as well as a fish market where you can choose a whole fish and have it fried to order! There are restaurants with food from all over Asia. In the same parking lot is Daimo, a wonderful Chinese place with a huge traditional menu. Don't miss this experience! | |