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 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 |
 Photo: James Knox |
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Brews and food |
2367 Telegraph Ave Berkeley, CA 94704 United States +1 877 488 6533 |
Since 1940, Blake's has been a fixture of Telegraph Avenue. Starting as a joint for beer and a quick bite by Larry Blake, it evolved into a jazz club, then a blues venue as well as a casual restaurant serving a mix of tasty bar food with some surprisingly good variations, all very reasonably priced. It serves food at all hours, has a full bar and dining section on the main floor, a bar and performance stage downstairs, and a third service bar and lounge area on the third floor. It offers approximately 15 imported, domestic and microbrew beers on tap, as well as an ample stock of fine wine and premium liquor. Choose from pizzas, burgers, sandwiches, salad, pastas and wraps that are reasonably filling and affordably priced. Performers at Blake's have included the likes of Otis Rush, Etta James, Boz Skaggs and Greg Allman; it also now books alternative sounds like Third Eye Blind. On any given night you may hear ska, funk, jazz, rock or world music. Blake's is the second destination of the Raleigh's-Blake's-Kip's-Bear's Lair Cal Berkeley college bar crawl; expect a predominantly student crowd most nights. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Anthony M. Warnack  |
 Photo: Shannon Kokoska |
 Photo: Natalie Villalobos |
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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 |
 Photo: James Knox |
 Photo: Brady Ho |
 Photo: James |
 Photo: Emmanuel uche |
 Photo: Summer Hellewell |
 Photo: ed oh |
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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 |
 Photo: Bruce Sterling |
 Photo: brad lindert |
 Photo: lance robotson |
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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 |
 Photo: Jason Higgins |
 Photo: NEGS26 |
 Photo: Kevin Mateo Lim |
 Photo: Ian Varley |
 Photo: Elizabeth Marsh |
 Photo: droptrio |
 Photo: Logaz (IlGalles) |
 Photo: Cliff Mak |
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East Bay Gourmet |
1782 4th Street Berkeley, CA 94710 United States +1 510 525 1440 http://www.caferouge.net |
Cafe Rouge, located in the heart of Berkeley's hoppin' 4th Street shopping district, is an East Bay institution. Foodies flock from far and wide for treats as simple as a cheeseburger and as complex as a Mediterranean-style lamb shank entree. Menu items are rotated in and out of circulation every couple weeks, so expect to see new and exciting things every time you visit. Shellfish fans marvel at the massive oyster selection (officially celebrated at the weekly Oyster Wednesday party). Cafe Rouge is also well known for the quality of its meats, all of which come from the finest local and regional producers, and many of which are available for takeaway at the on-site Meat Market (where you'll also find all manner of cured meats, pates, terrines and sausages). See website for menus, wine lists and more. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Sarah B. Gibson |
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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 |
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 |
 Photo: Heather Leah Kennedy |
 Photo: Aynne Valencia |
 Photo: missginsu |
 Photo: Star Leigh Wall |
 Photo: Alicia J. Smith |
 Photo: Heather Leah Kennedy |
 Photo: Matthias Zeller |
 Photo: ulterior epicure |
 Photo: Sara Paul |
 Photo: tracy benjamin |
 Photo: Yumiko Kitade |
 Photo: Brooke Raymond |
 Photo: Lalita Koehler |
 Photo: Rafael Alvez |
 Photo: Paulina |
 Photo: EMWinther |
 Photo: Carey-Leah Havrilko |
 Photo: James No |
 Photo: wunch |
 Photo: Amanda_Chou |
 Photo: Wayne L Fairley |
 Photo: Lano Williams |
 Photo: ZoeJu-Han Wang |
 Photo: Min RK |
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Coffee and Calzones! |
2960 College Avenue Berkeley, CA 94705 United States +1 510 644 3773 http://www.espressoroma.com/ |
For decades, this large coffeehouse on the corner of Ashby and College has been a veritable institution in Berkeley, like the University itself. A place for students to study over excellent espresso, and artists and writers to create while munching on a croissant. The floor is Tuscan tiled, the ceiling vaulted. Order at the coffee counter and seat yourself at a table, at the small circular bar, or at one of a handful of tables outside with the view of the College/Ashby foot traffic. Try the large, stuffed calzones filled with cheese, meat, veggies and fresh sauce. Note: Cash only. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Benjamin Harrison |
 Photo: Jonathan D. Leavitt |
 Photo: Claes Buckwalter |
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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 |
 Photo: Victoria Shephard |
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Glories of gourmet |
Around Shattuck Avenue (from Rose to Delaware streets) Berkeley, CA 94704 United States |
North of downtown Berkeley, this area features some of the best in fine cuisine and gourmet shopping in the city. Locals looking for food that is a cut above head here for the best in ethnic and local dining. The keystone is definitely Chez Panisse, known throughout the world as the place to eat in the Bay Area. You will also find some of the best tapas can be found at Cesar, sushi at Toyo and authentic Thai at Cha Am. There are also several vegetarian options, like the Japanese Cha-Ya, and great breakfasts and lunches at Smokey Joe's Cafe, to name just a few. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: _e.t |
 Photo: overlapgreen |
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Sandwich Serenity |
2109, Cedar Street Berkeley, CA 94709 United States +1 510 883 1893 http://www.gregoirerestaurant.... |
The streets of Berkeley's North Side are lined with some of the best hole-in-the-wall eateries the Bay Area has to offer. Gregoire, in particular, is where you'll taste the finest French style takeout. Their menu changes monthly and with each menu, you can taste amazing, organically made sandwiches like "Leg of Lamb," "Smoked Salmon in Traditional Blinis," "Smoked Duck," and so much more. The "Potato Puffs" alone are worth coming to Gregoire for. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Pub and grille |
2600 Durant Avenue Berkeley, CA 94704 United States +1 510 845 8981 / +1 800 238 7268 |
This place has been serving up traditional pub fare, a few slightly gourmet treats and lots of smiles in this congenial "publick" house atmosphere since 1981. If you are looking for a quick meal, want to catch a game on the television in the corner, or are just looking for a spirited good time, it is here. Sit at one of the tall tables or at the huge wood bar. The high ceilings and tall windows keep this place from falling into the dark, smoky sports bar category. Find dozens of beers on tap and a full bar. The menu features old standards like nachos and cheesy potato skins as well as the huge Henry's Burger. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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A tranquilizing experience! |
41 Tunnel Road Domingo Street Berkeley, CA 94705 United States +1 510 549 8510 / +1 510 843 3000 http://www.claremontresort.com/ |
Located at the Claremont Resort and Spa, Jordan's specializes in typical Californian cuisine. The panoramic view of the San Francisco skyline and the restaurant's wine list, which is the recipient of the Wine Spectator Award of Excellence, are the special features that make your dining experience worthwhile. The seasonal cuisine includes a five-course tasting menu and also a new vegetarian menu. The restaurant also provides for live entertainment like piano music and dancing, on weekends. So if you are looking for a relaxed and leisurely weekend break with your family, head straight for Jordan's! Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Health under glass |
2564 Bancroft Way Berkeley, CA 94704 United States +1 510 486 8322 |
The tables here are located along the atrium, along with a few plants and a glass roof, which is particularly cool to eat under during a rainstorm. True to its name, the place whips up all sorts of healthy breakfasts, lunches and dinner entrees, all at reasonable prices. Order at the counter, then sit beneath the glass. Morning selections include coffee, homemade muffins and pastries, eggs and omelets. Throughout the day find homemade soups, lasagna, stuffed baked potatoes and burgers. Try Southeast Asian entrees like the Mee Gorang, curry dishes and spicy udon. Only cash is accepted. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Sayumi Takahashi |
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Superb Italian Cuisine |
5655 College Avenue Berkeley, CA 94618 United States +1 510 547 5356 http://www.oliveto.com |
Chef Paul Bertolli's magical use of local, seasonal products has created the type of highbrow Italian menu that reportedly causes sound-minded adults to fall to their knees and weep openly from the taste bud euphoria. So as to assure absolute freshness the menu changes daily. Past entrees have included spit-roasted lamb (USD30) and roasted northern halibut (USD30). The wine menu rates as superb. For a more casual atmosphere, opt for the restaurant's adjoining café. Reservations are strongly suggested. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Pasta al fresco |
5500 College Avenue Berkeley, CA 94618 United States +1 510 923 0900 http://www.pastapomodoro.com/ |
Part of the well-known Bay Area chain of restaurants, this hip and stylish restaurant serves up tasty homemade pastas and delectable seafood and meat dishes at decent prices in a hip setting. Try the Frutti Di Mare with its generous helping of shellfish. Be prepared for dinner conversation to turn to shouting over your capellini, however; things are a bit quieter on the large patio that offers many tables beneath the stars and beneath the heat lamps on particularly chilly nights. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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The chicken on the corner |
1685 Shattuck Avenue Berkeley, CA 94709 United States +1 510 845 5932 |
Despite its French name, the offerings here are varied, from North Africa, Asia, Italy and the American South. This great little gourmet food store features a counter stocked with salads like Saffron Orzo and Burmese Noodles. Find polentas, grilled chicken and tofu, meatloaf, Creole sausage, jambalaya, roasted root vegetables, and all manner of sandwiches, served on baguettes, levain, sour roll, focaccia or aram, as well as pastries, cakes and daily specials. There are several tables in a comfortable, French country setting with crockery, pictures of poulet and fresh flowers. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: femtolivier |
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No cell phones, please |
5492 College Avenue Berkeley, CA 94618 United States +1 510 653 1567 http://www.rockridgeshop.com/ |
Welcome, but please, keep your cell phone off, otherwise you will be asked to leave. It has been witnessed. That said, this is the perfect spot to enjoy tasty, down-home American cuisine at incredibly reasonable prices. From three-egg omelets and French toast in the morning, to hearty soups, sandwiches and burgers in the afternoon, to slightly gourmet entrees at night, like Artichoke Calzone and Acadian Cassoulet. The setting bespeaks a simple country diner, with children's artwork papering one of the walls. The tables and booths are comfortable, though on weekends and peak times things really pick up. Review © 2007, Wcities |
