Top 10 Restaurants in Berkeley CA
As a foodie and a Berkeley local, I have tried and tested countless restaurants in the city. From fancy fine dining to casual cafes, Berkeley has a lot to offer in terms of culinary experiences. After much deliberation and taste-testing, I have come up with the top 10 restaurants in Berkeley that are a must-visit for any food lover.
Curiosities About Berkeley’s Food Scene
- Berkeley has a long history of food activism and sustainable farming practices.
- UC Berkeley’s Chez Panisse, founded by Alice Waters, is considered the birthplace of California cuisine.
- Berkeley is home to a diverse range of cuisines, from Mexican to Ethiopian to Japanese.
1. Chez Panisse
No list of Berkeley restaurants is complete without mentioning Chez Panisse. This iconic restaurant, founded in 1971, is known for its farm-to-table philosophy and emphasis on local, organic ingredients. The menu changes daily, based on what is seasonally available.
I had the pleasure of dining at Chez Panisse for a special occasion and it was truly an unforgettable experience. The food was exquisite and the service was top-notch. I highly recommend making a reservation in advance.
2. Gather
Gather is a popular restaurant that focuses on sustainable, plant-based cuisine. The menu features dishes that are inspired by global flavors and made with local, organic ingredients. They also have an impressive selection of craft cocktails and local beers.
I prefer Gather for its innovative and delicious vegetarian options. The mushroom pizza and the jackfruit tacos are some of my favorites.
3. Vik’s Chaat
Vik’s Chaat is a beloved Berkeley institution that serves Indian street food. The menu includes chaat, dosas, and other classic Indian dishes. It’s a casual spot with communal seating and a lively atmosphere.
I did not know what chaat was until I tried Vik’s Chaat. It’s a type of Indian snack that is both sweet and savory, and it’s absolutely delicious. The chole bhature and the samosas are also must-tries.
4. Comal
Comal is a Mexican restaurant that serves authentic dishes from various regions of Mexico. The menu features tacos, ceviches, and other small plates, as well as larger entrees. They also have an extensive tequila and mezcal selection.
I love Comal for its vibrant and flavorful dishes. The fish tacos and the chile relleno are particularly outstanding.
5. Ippuku
Ippuku is a Japanese izakaya that specializes in skewers and small plates. They also have a sake bar with a wide selection of sake and shochu. The atmosphere is cozy and lively, with a wood-burning grill in the center of the restaurant.
I had some of the best yakitori of my life at Ippuku. The chicken liver skewers and the beef tongue skewers are particularly noteworthy.
6. La Note
La Note is a French bistro that serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner. The menu includes classic French dishes like quiche and croque-monsieur, as well as brunch favorites like crepes and omelettes. They also have a cute outdoor patio.
I love coming to La Note for brunch on the weekends. The lavender jam and the almond croissant are divine.
7. Angeline’s Louisiana Kitchen
Angeline’s Louisiana Kitchen is a Cajun and Creole restaurant that brings a taste of the South to Berkeley. The menu includes gumbo, jambalaya, po’ boys, and other New Orleans favorites. They also have live music on certain nights.
I had never tried Cajun food before coming to Angeline’s, and I was blown away by the flavors. The gumbo and the fried chicken are both excellent.
8. Great China
Great China is a Chinese restaurant that specializes in Szechuan cuisine. The menu includes spicy dishes like mapo tofu and dan dan noodles, as well as non-spicy dishes like Peking duck and kung pao chicken.
I am a big fan of spicy food, so Great China is right up my alley. The ma po tofu and the spicy fish soup are both fiery and delicious.
9. Saha
Saha is a Middle Eastern restaurant that offers a unique blend of traditional and modern flavors. The menu includes dishes like lamb shank tagine and chicken bastilla, as well as vegan options like the beet tartare.
I was pleasantly surprised by the creative and flavorful dishes at Saha. The lamb shank tagine and the za’atar fries are both outstanding.
10. The Cheese Board Collective
The Cheese Board Collective is a worker-owned cooperative that operates a bakery and a pizzeria. The bakery offers a wide selection of breads and pastries, while the pizzeria serves vegetarian pizzas that change daily.
I love the communal and laid-back atmosphere at The Cheese Board. The pizzas are always delicious and creative, and the breads are some of the best in the Bay Area.
FAQs
What is the best time to go to these restaurants?
It is recommended to make reservations in advance, especially for popular restaurants like Chez Panisse and Gather. Lunchtime and early dinner (before 7pm) tend to be less busy than peak dinner hours.
Are these restaurants expensive?
Some of these restaurants, like Chez Panisse and Comal, are on the pricier side. However, there are also more affordable options like Vik’s Chaat and The Cheese Board. It all depends on your budget and preferences.
Do these restaurants accommodate dietary restrictions?
Most of these restaurants offer vegetarian and vegan options, and some also have gluten-free options. It’s always a good idea to check with the restaurant beforehand if you have any specific dietary needs.
What is the dress code for these restaurants?
Most of these restaurants have a casual dress code, but some, like Chez Panisse, may have a slightly more formal dress code. It’s always a good idea to check with the restaurant beforehand.
Do these restaurants offer takeout and delivery?
Most of these restaurants offer takeout, and some also offer delivery through third-party apps like Uber Eats and Grubhub.