25 Essential Berkeley Institutions
From neighborhood classics to high-wire tasting rooms, these are the places shaping the modern dining identity of Berkeley.
ID Cafe
California
an everyday essential indian restaurant address in Berkeley, pairing editorial magnetism with a Beam Score of 88.9.
Anchalee
California
Pleasing presentations of creative Thai bites from a small, unassuming neighborhood spot.
Jupiter
California
A 2-story venue & beer garden that serves up wood-fired pizzas plus handcrafted beers & ales.
The Smokehouse
Berkeley, California
Charbroiled burgers, hot dogs & malted milkshakes in an old-school spot with outdoor benches.
Spoon Korean Bistro
Berkeley, California
Comfortable eatery serving a menu of classic Korean fare like kimchi fried rice & seafood pancakes.
Chez Panisse
Berkeley, California
Alice Waters' acclaimed flagship downstairs & cafe upstairs offer seasonal fare & a chic, cozy vibe.
Bongo Burger
Berkeley, California
Low-key haunt, one of a local chain, serving up choice burgers, falafel & housemade hummus.
Bangkok Thai Cuisine
Berkeley, California
Spicy curries & other familiar Thai fare served in a relaxed setting with traditional decor accents.
Korean Superette
Berkeley, California
Identifies as Asian-owned, Identifies as women-owned. Service options: Outdoor seating, Delivery, Onsite services, Takeout, Dine-in. Highlights: Fast service.
La Note
Berkeley, California
Lively setting for French eats for breakfast, lunch or dinner, plus a garden open in good weather.
iniBurger - Gourmet Burgers
Berkeley, California
Service options: Outdoor seating, No-contact delivery, Delivery, Onsite services, Takeout, Dine-in. Highlights: Fast service. Popular for: Lunch, Dinner.
Pizza Twist
Berkeley, California
Identifies as Asian-owned, Identifies as women-owned. Service options: Outdoor seating, Curbside pickup, No-contact delivery, Delivery, Onsite services.
900 Grayson
Berkeley, California
Creative spins on breakfast, burgers & comfort food are offered at this funky cafe with patio seats.
Skates On The Bay
Berkeley, California
This casual American eatery offers seafood, steaks, sushi & waterfront views.
Cafe M
Berkeley, California
A popular pick for American breakfast & lunch fare in a bright space with sidewalk seating.
King of Kabab
Berkeley, California
Service options: Outdoor seating, Delivery, Onsite services, Takeout, Dine-in. Highlights: Serves local specialty. Popular for: Lunch, Dinner.
Bangkok by the Bay
Berkeley, California
Service options: Outdoor seating, Curbside pickup, Delivery, Takeout, Dine-in. Highlights: Fast service. Popular for: Lunch, Dinner, Solo dining. Accessibility.
Bobby G's Pizzeria
Berkeley, California
Relaxed hangout matches local-sourced pizza with craft drafts, sports on TV & music & trivia nights.
Jot Mahal Palace of Indian Cuisine
Berkeley, California
Indian cooking with ample vegan options & a lunch buffet, offered with beer & wine in basic digs.
Kiraku
Berkeley, California
Busy izakaya-style Japanese tapas eatery featuring locally sourced ingredients in a modest setting.
Ashby Eatery
Berkeley, California
Service options: Outdoor seating, Takeout, Dine-in. Highlights: Fast service. Popular for: Breakfast, Lunch, Solo dining. Accessibility.
GIOIA Pizzeria
Berkeley, California
This spot serves up NY-style slices & tops them with innovative, Californian-style toppings.
Racha Café
Berkeley, California
Laid-back Thai restaurant with an art-filled dining room serving up curry & noodle plates.
The Station - Smashburgers
Berkeley, California
Service options: Outdoor seating, No-contact delivery, Delivery, Onsite services, Takeout, Dine-in. Highlights: Fast service. Popular for: Lunch, Dinner.
La Mission
Berkeley, California
Busy joint offering burritos & tacos in small, bright digs with painted walls plus outdoor seating.