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Though it belongs to a fairly small city, the scope and influence of Berkeley's restaurant scene is positively outsized.

California Cuisine started here, after all. The effects of Chez Panisse and chef/owner Alice Waters' fresh food revolution are still being felt as far as Paris (where she has been asked to set up a restaurant at the Louvre). The East Bay's other top-flight "white tablecloth" restaurants are very much in Waters' vanguard: each fall Robert and Maggie Klein journey to Tuscany to find extra virgin olive oil good enough for their Rockridge restaurant, Oliveto.

Whether elegant or casual, it is simply impossible to find a more international selection of restaurants than in Berkeley. Within a few blocks of campus, one can dine inexpensively on the cuisine of at least fifty different countries. And, should the culinary climate inspire one to head to the kitchen, a range of cooking and specialty food stores stands ready to meet the most epicurean requirements (see District Guides).

Campus Area/Downtown

Thirty-five thousand hungry Cal students roaming the streets! It's not surprising that restaurants in the vicinity of the U.C. Berkeley campus tend to emphasize the quick and inexpensive. Certainly, burger and pizza joints can be found in abundance. This being Berkeley, however, it is just as easy to find Korean, Mediterranean or Ethiopian fare served with some flair and imagination.

Campus visitors may want to patronize one of the many food carts that set up shop on the sidewalk along Bancroft Street. Falafel, Asian noodle dishes, smoothies and the like make for tasty and quick snarfing on Sproul Plaza. Along Telegraph Avenue and the streets off it, Blondie's Pizza, Top Dog and Bongo Burger jostle with The Blue Nile, Berkel Berkel and Asian eateries beyond number in an ethnic struggle over the student dollar. Smart Alec's and Cafe Intermezzo fill the bill for soups, salads and monster sandwiches. For the quintessential hippie/radical flashback, duck into La Mediterranee, order an espresso, and watch the show. A smaller restaurant row of almost identical composition can be found on the other side of campus at the corner of Hearst and Euclid streets.

Similar choices await the diner heading west from campus along Addison Street, Central or University avenues. The ambience here edges up incrementally over Telegraph Avenue (perhaps due to the absence of sidewalk squatters). La Kamal, on the corner of Addison and Oxford streets, offers a bounteous Indian buffet. On bustling Center Street, La Cascada serves up a zesty gourmet twist on burritos and throws in a juice bar. The newish Santa Fe Bistro and Caffe Centro are packing 'em in for casually stylish sit-down dining.

There's more of the same as one heads on to Shattuck Avenue in Berkeley's downtown. Noodle houses, Starbuck's and Mel's Diner are ideally suited to the movie crowd (more than 20 screens distributed within four blocks) that surges through the district at night. The brick garden court of the Jupiter brew pub attracts sun worshippers in the day and music lovers at night.

Kamal Palace, Pasand, Viceroy and Raja, all clustered within a few downtown blocks, only hint at Berkeley's surplus of Indian restaurants and chaat houses.

University Avenue/Fourth Street

Berkeley's culinary eclecticism is carried west by the main artery of University Avenue. Long Life Vegi House, Au Coquelet, Ay Caramba!, Taiwan Restaurant, Kabana, and the mellifluous Plearn Thai House No. 2 all offer satisfying if unfancy sit-down meals. Below Sacramento Street, one enters the commercial center of Indian Berkeley, and finds among the sari stores a number of Indian restaurants like Maharani, all with a $7.99 lunch buffet. Chaat, which means snacks, more or less, in Hindi, is becoming a hot trend among world foodies here. Hence the long noon-hour lines at Vik's Chaat House, a big blue warehouse at 724 Allston Way around the corner from lower University Avenue. (Don't miss the Masala Dosas, served only on weekends.) A few blocks down from University on San Pablo is Breads of India, whose inventive cuisine and lack of table space at dinner make for long lines in the cold outside.

Skirting the freeway ramp at the end of University Avenue and turning right, one comes to Fourth Street, with its yuppily bustling new restaurants and shops. Standing at the corner of University, however, is the redoubt of Spenger's Fish Grotto, a Berkeley tradition that has served up shark steak and other no-nonsense seafood standbys since the 1930s. More of the moment are the Asian-fusion spots Ginger Island and O Chame in the heart of commercial Fourth Street. Nearby Cafe Rouge serves a continental/Californian menu in a casually glamorous setting. Bette's Ocean View Diner, not open for dinner, does breakfast and lunch—sit-down or take out—all week. It's an almost prohibitively popular weekend brunch spot.

Further into Berkeley's industrial edge, Pyramid Brewery & Alehouse is a popular pub with a tradition of outdoor summer cinema.

Elmwood/Rockridge

The Elmwood Shopping District's mighty little commercial district, hugging the intersection of College and Ashby avenues, sports more good restaurants than many American cities. Italian and Chinese cuisine is particularly well represented here: there are three Chinese restaurants in the space of about a block—innovative and popular Shen Hua drawing the biggest crowds—and Italy holds its own with Locanda Olmo, Trattoria La Siciliana and stylish deli A.G. Ferrari. Determined diners put their names on the lists of both Locanda and Siciliana, plunk themselves down on the sidewalk between them, and wait.

Other culinary traditions have their say in The Elmwood, too. Voulez-Vous is a cozy and inexpensive French restaurant with live musical entertainment. Next door is the always crowded La Mediterranee. The hungry movie-goer late for the 7pm show at the Elmwood Cinema can get a tasty burrito in about 45 seconds across the street at Gordo's.

Down the street in the Rockridge/College Avenue Shopping District, good food reigns supreme. The aforementioned Oliveto's pleases palates both in the upstairs dining room and in the more casual setting of the downstairs bistro/cafe. Down the street, Citron and Garibaldi's also rate high marks in the white tablecloth category from Bay Area food critics, and La Creme de La Creme offers the increasingly rare intimate setting with its California-Continental menu.

Near Claremont are Asian standouts Nam Yuen—offering up a sampling of Burmese cuisine in a stylish setting—and sushi boat grotto Isobune. Chicagoans homesick for deep-dish pizza will find happiness at hugely popular Zachary's Chicago Pizza—if they can get in—and Barney's Gourmet Hamburgers offers American comfort food for carnivores and vegetarians alike (most of the selections are available in beef, turkey or tofu). Cactus Taqueria and down-on-the-farm Red Tractor Cafe are a few of the neighborhood's distinctive quick-dining choices.

The Market Hall is a must-shop for those cooking at home—if not for a fresh loaf at Grace Baking, then for stuffed ravioli at The Pasta Shop or a bottle of Merlot at Paul Marcus wines. Specialty bakers La Farine and Katrina Rozelle draw shoppers from around the Bay Area in search of the perfect tart or wedding cake.

North Berkeley

Chez Panisse, that landmark of contemporary American Cuisine, looks regally out over North Shattuck and beyond to Solano Avenue. More and more nearby restaurants have been sharing its culinary glory, however. Besides Chez Panisse (two restaurants in one, really—Chez Panisse Upstairs and the more expensive, prix fixe Chez Panisse Downstairs), there is Caesar next door, serving up tapas with a Californian accent; and Kirala, felt by many to be the best Japanese restaurant in the Bay Area. Quirky and wildly popular Cha Am is a first choice for Thai. Around the corner on Rose Street, the vegetarian potstickers, and sweet and sour fried walnuts have a devoted following at humble Vegi Food China.

Among the many dining choices on Solano Avenue (a seemingly endless stretch of restaurants) are standouts like Rivoli (its courtyard is a favorite on late summer evenings) and Asia-California fusion newcomer Christopher's Cafe. Nearby, on Gilman, Lalime's treatment of the California-Mediterranean theme rivals that of Chez Panisse.

The spectrum of unfused Asian foods is well represented on Solano, too. Ajanta, a creative departure from usual Indian fare, Thai stalwart Sweet Basil, and Muyiki are among the favorites. A taste of Italy, meanwhile, can be had quickly and inexpensively at Filippo's and Zachary's Chicago Pizza.

Faster and cheaper still, the Cal-Mex cuisine of Cactus Taqueria is but one of dozens of options for diners on the go.







Copyright 1999-2005 Wcities, Inc. All Rights Reserved. Contact Wcities

A.G. Ferrari


The authentic Italian marketplace
1843 Solano Avenue
Berkeley, CA 94702
United States
+1 510 559 6860
http://www.agferrari.com
Whether you are looking for a quick pannini sandwich or the fixings for a gourmet Italian meal, this place fits the bill. Stocked full of gastronomic delights from all over Italy, you will find bronze-died pastas from Naples, tomato sauces from Tuscany, rare olive oils from Vinci, the finest vinegars from Moderna, prosciutto di Parma, and all manner of other imports. At the counter, order from a selection of prepared foods like fresh tagliarini and divine desserts. Made-to-order pannini sandwiches are available. And the vast cheese and wine selections cannot be beat. It also caters.

Review © 2007, Wcities
 

 
Barney's Gourmet Hamburgers


A different burger
1600 Shattuck Avenue
Berkeley, CA 94709
United States
+1 510 849 2827
This favorite serves up a wide variety of hamburgers. It also has more than a dozen chicken, turkey and tofu selections, and ten different salads including Thai Chicken. The atmosphere is fun and casual with mod posters on the wall and friendly servers. The burgers are huge, as are the baskets of fries and onion rings, and the shakes thick and old fashioned. The burgers include the basic, the Popeye (fresh spinach) and the Louisiana Blackened. The chicken, turkey and tofu burgers include Teriyaki and Maui Waui. You can add extras like pesto, homemade salsa, guacamole and sauteed mushrooms. More serious vegetarians can try the Portabello Burgers.

Review © 2007, Wcities
Barney's Gourmet Hamburgers photo by James Knox
Photo: James Knox
 

 
Bette's Ocean View Diner


Diner chic on Fourth Street
1807-A Fourth Street
Berkeley, CA 94710
United States
+1 510 644 3230
The name's a bit misleading. Not only is there no ocean view, but this is not your ordinary diner. Though it has streamlined aluminum and black-and-white tile, and the fare is inspired by diner cuisine, the ingredients are the freshest available and the dishes are prepared with care and imagination. At breakfast, the cooks do wonderful things with the humble buttermilk pancake, and the scrambled eggs and tortilla chips are memorable, as well. At lunch, it is sandwiches and plate specials, which often feature a fresh fish filet. The to-go counter next door, offers sandwiches and mini-pizzas.

Review © 2007, Wcities
Bette's Ocean View Diner photo by Hana Loftus
Photo: Hana Loftus
Bette's Ocean View Diner photo by Ed Roppo
Photo: Ed Roppo
Bette's Ocean View Diner photo by Dan
Photo: Dan
 

 
Blondie's


A pizza institution
2340 Telegraph Avenue
Berkeley, CA 94704
United States
+1 510 548 1129
For years this place been cranking out fresh, hot slices loaded with cheese, generous toppings and a substantial crust. Modeled after the famous grab-and-go pizzerias of New York, it holds its own nicely against them. The inside has a few lean-on bars upon which you can eat, but most grab a slice and hit the Avenue. Slice prices vary depending on what you order, but you can also order whole pies with all the usual toppings like veggies, pepperoni or sausage.

Review © 2007, Wcities
Blondie's photo by James Knox
Photo: James Knox
Blondie's photo by Brady Ho
Photo: Brady Ho
Blondie's photo by James
Photo: James
Blondie's photo by Emmanuel uche
Photo: Emmanuel uche
Blondie's photo by Summer Hellewell
Photo: Summer Hellewell
Blondie's photo by ed oh
Photo: ed oh
 

 
Bongo Burger


Drummin' up great burgers
2154 Center Street
Berkeley, CA 94704
United States
+1 510 548 7700
Since 1968, this restaurant has been serving chic and delicious burgers, bacon and baklava on the cheap. A cut above a greasy spoon or a fast food joint, it has a sleek, yellow and blue decor, comfy seats and apparent gloss. It serves breakfasts, like omelets with cheese, mushroom, bacon, or sausage, or eggs any style. Also find sandwiches with a decidedly Middle Eastern flair like the Shish Kebab Sandwich. Vegetarian selections include falafel and hummus sandwiches. But really, you are here for the burgers, which are big, cheap and juicy. Try the All-American and the Bacon. Everything is grilled and made to order.

Review © 2007, Wcities
Bongo Burger photo by Bruce Sterling
Photo: Bruce Sterling
Bongo Burger photo by brad lindert
Photo: brad lindert
Bongo Burger photo by lance robotson
Photo: lance robotson
 

 
Cactus Taqueria


Cheap chic chipotle
5525 College Avenue
Berkeley, CA 94618
United States
+1 510 547 1305
Here the usual suspects such as tacos, burritos, enchiladas and quesadillas are accented by unique touches, including half a dozen different tortillas, homemade salsas and cactus chips, and daily specials. Past specials have included fillings like Chile Colorado, Chicken Adobo, and Flautas with Sweet Potatoes, Carrots and Corn Filling. The Green Mole Chicken is a particular hit, as is the homemade tamales made with pickled onions and Mexican cream and a choice of chicken or vegetables. Order at the counter, then relax and enjoy your burritos at one of the many tables beneath the wooden cactus cutouts.

Review © 2007, Wcities
Cactus Taqueria photo by James Knox
Photo: James Knox
Cactus Taqueria photo by michael sippey
Photo: michael sippey
Cactus Taqueria photo by diana m.
Photo: diana m.
 

 
Cafe Intermezzo


Salad in the window?
2442 Telegraph Avenue
Berkeley, CA 94704
United States
+1 510 849 4592
Find a high ceiling and wall murals that lend an Italian countryside feel. The windows looking out onto the street are large, so you can watch the foot traffic go by. The salads (chef, green or veggie) are easily sharable by two or three people. They are made with the freshest of ingredients and come with the house's homemade honey wheat bread. Sandwiches like roast beef, turkey, ham and vegetarian, are equally as sharable as the salads. Try the robust and strong Indo Noir or the heady Moka Java coffee with a fresh pastry.

Review © 2007, Wcities
Cafe Intermezzo photo by Jason Higgins
Photo: Jason Higgins
Cafe Intermezzo photo by NEGS26
Photo: NEGS26
Cafe Intermezzo photo by Kevin Mateo Lim
Photo: Kevin Mateo Lim
Cafe Intermezzo photo by Ian Varley
Photo: Ian Varley
Cafe Intermezzo photo by Elizabeth Marsh
Photo: Elizabeth Marsh
Cafe Intermezzo photo by droptrio
Photo: droptrio
Cafe Intermezzo photo by Logaz (IlGalles)
Photo: Logaz (IlGalles)
Cafe Intermezzo photo by Cliff Mak
Photo: Cliff Mak
 

 
Cascada


Healthy burritos and wraps
2164 Center Street
Berkeley, CA 94704
United States
+1 510 704 8688
Murals of villas and a marketplace grace the wall of this restaurant. The music is fun, the service great, the food cannot be beat. This eatery makes its ingredients in small batches, ensuring you get the freshest available. Its meat is hand-trimmed, lean and low in sodium. Healthy cooking is key here. Choose from a whole wheat, spinach or tomato tortilla. Wraps and burritos can be had traditionally, or more creatively, like the picante (with chipolte). Choose from chicken, beef, carnitas or chorizo, salmon, snapper and prawns. For breakfast, try Chorizo and Eggs, Huevos Rancheros or the Mexican Omelet.

Review © 2007, Wcities
 

 
Cha Am


Get Thai-ed by some of the best
1543 Shattuck Avenue
Berkeley, CA 94709
United States
+1 510 848 9664
Known throughout Berkeley as well as around the Bay as one of the premier Thai spots in the area, Cha Am continues to garner Best Of The Bay awards and charm guests with its lovely enclosed patio and even lovelier food. Perhaps it is the "Authentic Thai Herbs" touted on the menu, but everything tastes piquant and delicious, and is not unreasonably priced. Try the traditional Tom Ka Guy soup followed by Golden Triangles. The Rice Plates and Prawns in Chili are good hits. For vegetarians, they offer many noodle and tofu dishes.

Review © 2007, Wcities
 

 
Chez Panisse


The one and only
1517 Shattuck Avenue
Berkeley, CA 94709-1516
United States
+1 510 548 5525 / +1 510 548 5049
http://www.chezpanisse.com
webmaster@chezpanisse.com
Few restaurants are known worldwide. Welcome to the jewel in Berkeley's culinary crown, the restaurant around which the famous Gourmet Ghetto has grown. Alice Waters opened this restaurant in 1971 in the hopes of marrying the best in international culinary skills with locally produced organic ingredients, all in the atmosphere of a friendly dinner party. She has more than succeeded. In this intimate setting of brick and wood, an upstairs cafe was opened to offer the delights and flavors of Chez Panisse with a more casual setting and more casual prices. The menu changes daily, but an example of dinner includes Oyster Bisque with Tomales Bay Oysters and Herb Croutons, Oregon Steelhead with Rose Butter, and Apple Jalousie Tart with Candied Orange Ice Cream. The wine list is extensive, featuring dozens and dozens of wines from almost as many countries. Bottles run from USD22 to several hundred.

Review © 2007, Wcities
Chez Panisse photo by Heather Leah Kennedy
Photo: Heather Leah Kennedy
Chez Panisse photo by Aynne Valencia
Photo: Aynne Valencia
Chez Panisse photo by missginsu
Photo: missginsu
Chez Panisse photo by Star Leigh Wall
Photo: Star Leigh Wall
Chez Panisse photo by Alicia J. Smith
Photo: Alicia J. Smith
Chez Panisse photo by Heather Leah Kennedy
Photo: Heather Leah Kennedy
Chez Panisse photo by Matthias Zeller
Photo: Matthias Zeller
Chez Panisse photo by ulterior epicure
Photo: ulterior epicure
Chez Panisse photo by Sara Paul
Photo: Sara Paul
Chez Panisse photo by tracy benjamin
Photo: tracy benjamin
Chez Panisse photo by Yumiko Kitade
Photo: Yumiko Kitade
Chez Panisse photo by Brooke Raymond
Photo: Brooke Raymond
Chez Panisse photo by Lalita Koehler
Photo: Lalita Koehler
Chez Panisse photo by Rafael Alvez
Photo: Rafael Alvez
Chez Panisse photo by Paulina
Photo: Paulina
Chez Panisse photo by EMWinther
Photo: EMWinther
Chez Panisse photo by Carey-Leah Havrilko
Photo: Carey-Leah Havrilko
Chez Panisse photo by James No
Photo: James No
Chez Panisse photo by wunch
Photo: wunch
Chez Panisse photo by Amanda_Chou
Photo: Amanda_Chou
Chez Panisse photo by Wayne L Fairley
Photo: Wayne L Fairley
Chez Panisse photo by Lano Williams
Photo: Lano Williams
Chez Panisse photo by ZoeJu-Han  Wang
Photo: ZoeJu-Han Wang
Chez Panisse photo by Min RK
Photo: Min RK
 

 
Citron


Elegance in yellow
5484 College Avenue
Berkeley, CA 94618
United States
+1 510 653 5484
Citron is a world of subtle yellow accents and brilliant food. Art Deco glass sconces adorn the yellow walls, with black and white prints that break up the monotony. The menu is a fusion of seafood and local ingredients, with styles that range from Spanish, French, Italian and American, making this place very Californian indeed. Try the Paella Citron with its generous shrimp and shellfish and perfectly spiced rice. Small plates include the Warm Artichoke Confit. The menu is subject to change seasonally, and specials appear daily. The wine selection features Napa Valley vintages.

Review © 2007, Wcities
 

 
Elmwood Shopping District


A little village in Berkeley
College Avenue
(from Prince Street to Dwight Way)
Berkeley, CA 94705
United States
On the eastern edge of Berkeley, nestled at the foothills, you will find this small shopping and restaurant area centered near College Avenue and Ashby. Somewhat of a younger sibling to the Rockridge Shopping District a few blocks to the south, and seemingly a village to the castle of the Claremont Hotel that looms above, Elmwood features everything you need for a relaxing day of strolling and shopping. Begin your day over coffee and pastries at the famous Espresso Roma with a thriving student and artist clientele. Find several quaint shops and romantic restaurants abound, like Voulez-Vous, which features the best in French cuisine and live entertainment.

Review © 2007, Wcities
Elmwood Shopping District photo by Paula
Photo: Paula
 

 
Filippo's


Build your own pasta dish
5400 College Ave
Berkeley, CA 94618
United States
+1 510 601 8646
http://www.filippos.biz
The inexpensive menu is set up so that you can pick out the pasta you want and match it up with the sauce of your choice, making endless variations are possible. Choose Capellini, Gemelli, Ravioli, Fusilli or Linguine. Even Gnocchi and Polenta are there to choose from. Add Pomodoro (tomato basil sauce), Milanese (scallops, basil, cream), Sausage, Bolognese (meat ragout and fresh herbs), Frutti de Mare and much more. It also offers healthy pastas that use only light oil and no butter or cream. The setting is small and comfortable with the added bonus of sidewalk seating.

Review © 2007, Wcities
 

 
Fourth Street Shopping District


Upscale shopping
Fourth Street
(between Cedar Street and Hearst Avenue)
Berkeley, CA 94710
United States
+1 510 559 7050
Once a rugged, industrial district, with train tracks running smack through it, Fourth Street between Hearst and Cedar has undergone a renaissance all its own. Stores have sprung up in the past few years that now generate more retail tax revenue for the city than the whole of downtown Berkeley. You will find boutique after boutique with clothing, accessories for the home and office, gourmet shops with cheese and wine and several quaint bistros. Explore from one end to the other and spend an afternoon strolling and shopping.

Review © 2007, Wcities
Fourth Street Shopping District photo by Havi Hoffman - freshelectrons
Photo: Havi Hoffman - freshelectrons
 

 
Garibaldi's


Elegance on College Avenue
5356 College Avenue
Berkeley, CA 94618
United States
+1 510 595 4000
http://www.garibaldis-eastbay....
Chef Julia Drori pleases discriminating diners using seasonal ingredients with a strong Italian influence, as well as the occasional Asian-Fusion kiss. Casual elegance abounds with a wood oven that spreads a hearty warmth, and murals that hint at a rustic Tuscan countryside. The service excellent, friendly and above-and-beyond helpful. The menu changes monthly and seasonally, assuring you the freshest ingredients. Past appetizers have included Grilled Salt Cod Fritters. Some of the entrees have included Grilled Duck and Saffron Risotto. The wine list features several dozen Californian and international vintages, with bottles ranging from USD25-175.

Review © 2007, Wcities
Garibaldi's photo by Victoria Shephard
Photo: Victoria Shephard
 

 
Grace Baking


Award-winning bakery
5655 College Avenue
(Rockridge Market Hall)
Berkeley, CA 94618
United States
+1 510 428 2662
This popular gourmet bakery makes cakes, cookies, creative pastries and healthy breads daily, with the finest ingredients. It has won numerous awards from publications like the San Francisco Chronicle, the San Francisco Bay Guardian, Sunset magazine and Modern Baking magazine. Challah, oregano-pesto French bread, multigrain sandwich bread, potato bread, currant-bran muffins, croissants and focaccia are just a sample of what is sold fresh out of the oven. It is located in a prime North Oakland European market, Rockridge Market Hall, where you will find a variety of gourmet specialty shops selling fresh pasta, seafood, meats, flowers, coffee, tea and more.

Review © 2007, Wcities
 

 
India Palace


More Than Just Curry
2160 University Avenue
Berkeley, CA 94704
United States
+1 510 848 7252
This eatery specializes in Northern Indian cuisine. It uses lots of fresh ingredients and select spices. Find a comfortable setting with a full bar that includes Indian beers and a few bottles of vintage wine. The tandoori specialties and curries are excellent, and there's a large variety of vegetarian dishes to choose from.

Review © 2007, Wcities
 

 
Isobune


Sashimi that practically swims
5897 College Avenue
Berkeley, CA 94618
United States
+1 510 601 1424
Since 1995, this fine eatery has been a favorite for not only sushi, but also for its amazing and extensive sashimi menu. The place has already garnered a few Best Of The Bay awards from local magazines. The service is friendly, the atmosphere earthy and comfortable, and there is a delightful revolving sushi bar. It offers over a dozen sashimi choices in generous amounts, like saba, ika, and maguro. There are nice combinations, too, like the maguro-hamachi fresh salmon platter. The many sushi boxes are good deals and include a variety of fish. It also serves entrees like chicken, beef or salmon teriyaki, tempura and donburi dishes.

Review © 2007, Wcities
 

 
La Creme de La Creme


La creme de Provence
5362 College Avenue
Berkeley, CA 94618
United States
+1 510 420 8822
Enjoy the delights of traditional Provencal dishes married to California ingredients. The result is a menu rife with fresh seafood, delicate sauces, Pacific accents and delicious decisions. Dine on the patio, reminiscent of a garden just outside Marseilles, or inside in a bright and cheerful dining room with contemporary French artwork on the walls. Find a varied selection of the freshest seafood this side of the Bay, including lobster and tiger prawns sauteed with shallots in a brandy cream sauce. There is a nice selection of French and California wines

Review © 2007, Wcities
 

 
La Farine


A little continental flavor
6323 College Avenue
Berkeley, CA 94618
United States
+1 510 654 0338
Come in the morning when the freshly baked odors of sugar, cinnamon, and sour dough litterally draw in passersby and form lines out the door. Baguettes, loaves, cookies and croissants, cakes and tortes, all have a slightly French accent and are delicious. Mornings draw a loyal following of locals eager for the first croissants and cinnamon buns out of the oven. There are only a few chairs and one table, so come in a robe and slippers and take your treats back home.

Review © 2007, Wcities
La Farine photo by Jonas Lerman
Photo: Jonas Lerman
La Farine photo by Dave Monk
Photo: Dave Monk
 

 
La Mediterranee


Mediterranean on College
2936 College Ave
Berkeley, CA 94705
United States
+1 510 540 7773
http://www.cafelamed.com
cafelamed.com
Come here for delicious, freshly made food from Greece, North Africa and the Near East. You will be surrounded with blue tiles, wine bottles and an airy atmosphere. It offers delicious favorites like hummus and pita, dolmas, baba ganoush and tabbouleh all made from scratch. For vegetarians, it offers Armenian tomato salad, and a vegetarian assortment platter. Carnivores have lamb kebabs, pomegranate chicken and occasional fish dishes. The phyllo pastries (chicken, spinach and cheese, and meat) are perennial favorites, as is the baklava. Find house wines, withan ever-changing variety of vintages and a full bar.

Review © 2007, Wcities
 

 
Long Life Vegi House


Live a long life
2129 University Avenue
Berkeley, CA 94704
United States
+1 510 845 6072
The decor here is odd, yet the wood paneling is somehow comforting as you sit beneath the immense paper lanterns and the giant swordfish. Long Life believes a veggie diet is the secret to a long life, and its expansive menu is testament to the fact that the taste and skill of authentic Chinese cuisine can be delicious and inexpensive. It offers soy protein dishes and wheat gluten like Kung Pao Vegi Beef. The seafood is real, however, and includes Lobster Creamed Sauce Prawns. It offers a weekend Dim Sum brunch where dumplings and buns can be had for pennies.

Review © 2007, Wcities
 

 
Pyramid Brewery & Alehouse


Berkeley microbrewery
901 Gilman Street
(at the corner of Seventh Street)
Berkeley, CA 94710
United States
+1 510 528 9880
http://www.pyramidbrew.com
Spawned out of Seattle, the second Pyramid Brewery calls Berkeley home. The brewery doubles as a brew house and restaurant, and daily tours on beer-making conveniently end in a spacious dining room. In the summertime the parking lot turns into a free outdoor cinema playing American classics like Caddyshack and The Shining. The menu is filled with a beer drinker's favorite friends: nachos, onion rings, steaks, seafood, chicken, burgers and wood-oven pizzas. With over twenty Pyramid brews on tap, the microbrewery serves pale, wheat and fruit-flavored ales, seasonal varieties, English brown and espresso stout.

Review © 2007, Wcities
Pyramid Brewery & Alehouse photo by Jacqueline Larson
Photo: Jacqueline Larson
 

 
Rockridge Market Hall


The world on the corner
5655 College Avenue
Berkeley, CA 94618
United States
+1 510 652 4680 / +1 888 952 4005
http://www.rockridgemarkethall...
mwood@markethallfoods.com
Just across the street from the Rockridge BART station, you'll find this great little shopping center that feels like a bit of Manhattan's Upper West Side all rolled into a corner. You will find the best in gourmet delights, flowers, coffees and tea, and everything you need for a romantic meal at home. Market Hall offers restaurants, cafes, bakeries and florists as well as fishmongers and some of the finest produce available in the Bay Area. However, credit card acceptance varies by store.

Review © 2007, Wcities
Rockridge Market Hall photo by Diane Tani
Photo: Diane Tani
 

 
Rockridge/College Avenue  Shopping District


Shopping, dining, people-watching
College Avenue
(from Woolsey Street to Broadway)
Berkeley, CA 94618
United States
With its own BART station, Rockridge's main artery is College Avenue. Half in Oakland and half in Berkeley, Rockridge nevertheless feels like its own little town. Locals, as well as those in-the-know throughout the Bay Area, know this is the perfect place to wile away a sunny weekend afternoon shopping for antiques, gourmet groceries, and the best in locally made clothing and crafts, or to just enjoy a leisurely brunch at one of the many fine restaurants. Whether you are visiting for a short while or are new to the area, a day in Rockridge is not to be missed.

Review © 2007, Wcities
 

 
Telegraph Avenue


Berkeley
United States
Telegraph Avenue, for three generations the engine of Berkeley's militant counterculture, is a vibrant, living anthropological museum. Still-angry radicals draft leftist tracts in the Caffe Mediterraneum. Aging hippies sell tie-dye and macramé from sidewalk tables next to Rastas offering knit tam o'shanters and hemp advocates hawking bumper stickers. Knots of disaffected young punks in black leather set up camp on the curb. The inevitable "Berkeley Crazy" floats through the crowd, talking animatedly to unseen companions. For the thousands of undergraduates who do their business on "The Avenue," however, it's all just background (or foreground) to the eateries, record barns, clothing outlets and bookstores lining the four blocks between Bancroft and Dwight.

Review © 2007, Wcities
Telegraph Avenue photo by Kai Schreiber
Photo: Kai Schreiber
Telegraph Avenue photo by Thomas Hawk
Photo: Thomas Hawk
Telegraph Avenue photo by Jenna Howes.
Photo: Jenna Howes.
Telegraph Avenue photo by Ann Chang
Photo: Ann Chang
Telegraph Avenue photo by Paula
Photo: Paula
Telegraph Avenue photo by Eddie Rohilla
Photo: Eddie Rohilla
Telegraph Avenue photo by caleb haley
Photo: caleb haley
Telegraph Avenue photo by Shawn McCullars
Photo: Shawn McCullars
Telegraph Avenue photo by Jennifer S. Lombard
Photo: Jennifer S. Lombard
Telegraph Avenue photo by Alice Webber
Photo: Alice Webber
 

 
The Elmwood


Berkeley
United States
The commercial face of Elmwood, a genteel alternative to the countercultural hurly-burly of Telegraph Avenue, is confined to a scant three blocks around College Avenue and Ashby Street. The Elmwood's culinary status, however, is out of proportion to its size, with two wildly popular Italian trattorias (Locanda Olmo and Trattoria La Siciliana), a fine Italian deli (A.G. Ferrari), a bakery, a dessert place (Just Desserts), a creperie (Voulez-Vous), a cafe offering hot entrees (Espresso Roma), three excellent Chinese restaurants (Shen Hua, Hai Loon King, and Shin Jin) and a kosher spot (Holy Land)--to name but a few--within two blocks. The quiet side streets of the Elmwood are filled with stately, dark-shingled homes inspired by West Coast Arts & Crafts architects Green and Greene and Bernard Maybeck.

Review © 2007, Wcities
The Elmwood photo by Cem&Andrea
Photo: Cem&Andrea
 

 
The University of California, Berkeley


Golden Bears & Nobel laureates
At the corner of University Avenue and Oxford Street
Berkeley, CA 94704
United States
+1 510 642 6000
http://www.berkeley.edu
hmitchel@uclink4.berkeley.edu
Perennially ranked among the top universities in the country, the 1,365-acre, 465-building campus offer visitors as well as students museums, libraries, superb views from the campanile, public lectures by Nobel laureates, world class entertainment and NCAA sports. Campus life centers on Sproul Plaza and Sather Gate. A reminder of Berkeley's place in American social history can be found in the form a plaque in front of Sproul Hall, marking the spot where Mario Savio launched the Free Speech movement in 1964. Free tours of campus are given Monday-Friday, leaving from 101 University Hall at the corner of University Avenue and Oxford Street. Saturday at 10a and Sunday at 1p, the tours leave from the Campanile.

Review © 2007, Wcities
The University of California, Berkeley photo by Angelo Mercado
Photo: Angelo Mercado
The University of California, Berkeley photo by Innes M. Keighren
Photo: Innes M. Keighren
The University of California, Berkeley photo by Seth Gaines
Photo: Seth Gaines
The University of California, Berkeley photo by Fugitive in two counties
Photo: Fugitive in two counties
The University of California, Berkeley photo by Luca Zappa
Photo: Luca Zappa
The University of California, Berkeley photo by Mike Wooldridge
Photo: Mike Wooldridge
The University of California, Berkeley photo by oanababy
Photo: oanababy
The University of California, Berkeley photo by knsk
Photo: knsk
The University of California, Berkeley photo by Bengt Mutén
Photo: Bengt Mutén
The University of California, Berkeley photo by John
Photo: John
The University of California, Berkeley photo by Jerry Lindholm
Photo: Jerry Lindholm
The University of California, Berkeley photo by Cheri Mann
Photo: Cheri Mann
The University of California, Berkeley photo by light7wave
Photo: light7wave
The University of California, Berkeley photo by Jacob Erickson
Photo: Jacob Erickson
The University of California, Berkeley photo by basile with an e
Photo: basile with an e
The University of California, Berkeley photo by Kasey Kalis
Photo: Kasey Kalis
The University of California, Berkeley photo by basile with an e
Photo: basile with an e
The University of California, Berkeley photo by l84myflight
Photo: l84myflight
The University of California, Berkeley photo by Steve W. Lee
Photo: Steve W. Lee
The University of California, Berkeley photo by Marcus Sanford
Photo: Marcus Sanford
The University of California, Berkeley photo by Dave Churney
Photo: Dave Churney
The University of California, Berkeley photo by Ingrid
Photo: Ingrid
The University of California, Berkeley photo by giuliana_miranda
Photo: giuliana_miranda
The University of California, Berkeley photo by Chris Emura
Photo: Chris Emura
The University of California, Berkeley photo by Adam Jen Kin Regele
Photo: Adam Jen Kin Regele
 

 
Top Dog


Hot Dogs Fed Exed
2534 Durant Avenue
Berkeley, CA 94704
United States
+1 510 843 7250
http://www.topdoghotdogs.com/
Sometimes you want a Louisiana link that sends your tongue on a one-way trip to New Orleans, a decent kosher frank. That is what the owner wanted when he opened up this small stand: a taste of New York's famous ethnic sausages from its German, Italian and Polish neighborhoods. And they ship bulk orders around the world, too! Not surprisingly, this joint is a hit with local students grabbing a quick bite between classes or a satisfying break during a late-night study session. Place your order at the front and hang out while waiting for your link. Lemon Chicken, Kielbasa and the turkey "Bird Dog" are among the several appetizing selections.

Review © 2007, Wcities
Top Dog photo by joyce_l
Photo: joyce_l
Top Dog photo by iris616
Photo: iris616
Top Dog photo by [Terence]
Photo: [Terence]
Top Dog photo by Cyrus Farivar
Photo: Cyrus Farivar
Top Dog photo by Ryan Wu
Photo: Ryan Wu
Top Dog photo by Mel Tajon
Photo: Mel Tajon
Top Dog photo by Mel Tajon
Photo: Mel Tajon
Top Dog photo by Yasuo.Hirao
Photo: Yasuo.Hirao
Top Dog photo by Mike Chung
Photo: Mike Chung
Top Dog photo by Alex Ainslie
Photo: Alex Ainslie
Top Dog photo by Kay and Peter
Photo: Kay and Peter
Top Dog photo by Eugene Chan
Photo: Eugene Chan
Top Dog photo by TheWayOfTheGun
Photo: TheWayOfTheGun
 

 
Trattoria La Siciliana


Sicily in Berkeley
2993 College Avenue
Berkeley, CA 94705
United States
+1 510 704 1474
Winner of several "Best of the Bay" awards by local newspapers, this trattoria serves traditional southern Italian dishes in a warm and friendly setting. Inside find tiled floors and Italian arts and crafts, including handmade puppets suspended from the ceiling and the ubiquitous garlic wreaths. You are sure to enjoy the friendly service and fine food. Try entrees like linguine, Bistec Impaneta or the Pollo alla Scarpanello (chicken with lemon, garlic and wine sauce). The wine selection includes both Italian and California wines, but try the house chianti, which beautifully complements the dishes.

Note: Cash only

Review © 2007, Wcities
Trattoria La Siciliana photo by John Onate
Photo: John Onate
 

 
Vegi Food China


Healthy Chinese food
2083 Vine Street
(2085 Vine Street next door)
Berkeley, CA 94709
United States
+1 510 548 5244
Inside this nondescript, all-vegetarian Chinese restaurant, you will find an informal yet comfortable setting with daily specials tacked up on the blue walls, and some traditional lanterns and statuary. The owner strongly believes in the health benefits of a vegetarian diet (as the news clippings posted to the door will attest) and in having everything fresh and bursting with seasonal goodness. Try vegetarian variations on old favorites, including Chow Mein, Lo Mein and combinations like the Black Mushroom and Greens or Braised Eggplant. For those who miss the texture of meat, there are many dishes made with bean gluten. Cash only.

Review © 2007, Wcities
 

 
Viceroy Indian Restaurant


The largest in Berkeley
21 Shattuck Square
Berkeley, CA 94704
United States
+1 510 549 1814
Within a grand hall-like atmosphere with dozens and dozens of tables, and beautiful traditional art on the walls, waft the smells of tandoori and curry and naan. The delights of both Northern and Southern cuisine are made fresh from the kitchen, and are different every day but usually include a variety of meat and vegetable samosas and pakoras. There are also tandoori dishes, and a variety of kormas, saags, masalas and vindaloos with chicken, lamb and fish. And for a few dollars more includes dal, soup, breads and dessert. It goes down well with Indian beer.

Review © 2007, Wcities
 

 
Vik's Chaat House


Indian snack warehouse
724 Allston Way
Berkeley, CA 94710
United States
+1 510 644 4412
Chaat, the Hindi word for snacks, are the stock-in-trade of this bright blue warehouse on Berkeley's industrial West Side. Every day, two dozen varieties of chaat are chalked up on the whiteboard, tasty little morsels ranging from Vadu and Chole to Pakoras and Samosas. The eatery has been discovered, big time, but the counter service is fast enough to handle the big lunchtime crowds. Insider's tip: on weekends, order the Masala Dosas, huge lentil pancakes with spiced potato fillings in a thin lentil soup.

Review © 2007, Wcities
Vik's Chaat House photo by Bradley Allen
Photo: Bradley Allen
Vik's Chaat House photo by Liz Dunn
Photo: Liz Dunn
Vik's Chaat House photo by John H
Photo: John H
 

 
Zachary's Chicago Pizza


Great stuffed pizza
5801 College Ave
Berkeley, CA 94618
United States
+1 510 655 6385
http://www.zacharys.com
office@zacharys.com
This famous Chicago-style pizza company is always packed with UC students, families and out-of-towners. No one seems to mind the 20-minute wait for the stuffed masterpiece. The pizza is made as thick as a pumpkin pie (yes, you do need a knife and fork), and the ingredients are put on upside down with tomatoes on top, meat on the bottom. So filling and so delicious, count on bringing home leftovers.

Review © 2007, Wcities
Zachary's Chicago Pizza photo by Erwin Chuk
Photo: Erwin Chuk
Zachary's Chicago Pizza photo by karin
Photo: karin
Zachary's Chicago Pizza photo by Jan Richards
Photo: Jan Richards
Zachary's Chicago Pizza photo by weirded
Photo: weirded
Zachary's Chicago Pizza photo by C.2006/RR, P. Koning
Photo: C.2006/RR, P. Koning
 

 
Other Schmapplets in this city related to "Berkeley - Dining & Drinking"
Berkeley
Berkeley - Historical Background
Berkeley - Neighborhood Guide
Berkeley - Where to Stay
Berkeley - Art & Entertainment

Other nearby cities:
San Francisco (10 miles)
San Jose and Silicon Valley (60 miles)
Napa Valley (63 miles)
Sacramento (108 miles)
Monterey and Carmel (146 miles)
Yosemite (224 miles)
Lake Tahoe (241 miles)
Reno (284 miles)
Los Angeles (568 miles)
Las Vegas (682 miles)

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