Berkeley is a city with a wide variety of restaurants to try. Looking for Korean, Salvadoran, Chinese, Mexican or vegan options? Look no further — here are just a few of the restaurants Berkeley has to offer!
Berkeley Social Club
Located in Downtown Berkeley, Berkeley Social Club serves a contemporary interpretation of Korean cuisine with an American twist. Famous for its breakfast menu consisting of dishes such as the waffle and KFC and the mascarpone blueberry stuffed crunch French toast, you do not want to miss the opportunity to eat at Berkeley Social Club.
Platano
Looking for authentic Salvadoran food? Platano has you covered with its delicious pupusas, Salvadoran horchata and other iconic dishes. A welcoming spot decorated with folk art from El Salvador, Platano has some of the quickest and friendliest service in Berkeley.
La Note
A French restaurant perfect for breakfast and lunch with an open garden for seating, La Note is located in the heart of Downtown Berkeley. Known for its Instagram-worthy pancakes, La Note is easily one of the best breakfast spots in Berkeley.
Great China
Great China serves some of the best northern Chinese food in the Bay since it was established in 1985. The “Double Skin” dish was chosen by Diablo Magazine as one of the “101 dishes to try before you die.” Its menu is full of unique dishes to try, such as Peking duck and a mix of Korean-Chinese specialties.
Imm Thai
The true taste of Thai cuisine can be found at Imm Thai Street Food. A popular restaurant among students, Imm Thai serves some of the best pad thai in the Bay Area and is personally one of my favorite restaurants in Berkeley.
Koja Kitchen
Koja is a gourmet sandwich with freshly made crispy garlic rice bun. Koja Kitchen provides a fusion of Korean and Japanese cuisine with a menu full of handcrafted items with bold flavors.
Tacos Sinaloa
Stephen Curry’s favorite taco spot, Tacos Sinaloa is a family-owned restaurant dedicated to providing delicious seafood and authentic Mexican food in the East Bay. Located minutes away from campus, this spot is popular among students and even made an appearance in the 2018 movie “Blindspotting.”
Sliver Pizzeria
A Bay Area staple with two locations, Sliver Pizzeria serves some of the most delicious sourdough pizzas. Featuring an all-vegetarian menu, its pizza is made fresh each day. Known for its ongoing rivalry with Cheeseboard, you must try Sliver and choose which pizzeria is the best yourself.
The Butcher’s Son Vegan Delicatessen and Bakery
One of Berkeley’s most popular vegan restaurants, The Butcher’s Son’s menu is 100% plant-based. Whether you’re vegan or just looking for a healthy and delicious meal, they provide sustainable options that will satisfy your cravings.
Whether you’re new to campus or have been here for a while, I hope this list was able to provide you with new restaurants to try!