Recently, my friends and I started a bucket list of things to do and restaurants to try around Berkeley, and I’ve found that the reminder that I have exciting activities to look forward to keeps me motivated and content. Whether you have a bucket list of your own you’d like to add to or just want a few ideas of activities around Berkeley, I hope this list will motivate you to take some time to explore all that Berkeley has to offer!
Here are the items we have yet to check off:
UC Botanical Garden at Berkeley
I’ve actually already been to the botanical gardens with my parents during parents weekend, so I can attest to the beautiful greenery it has to offer. It’s on our list though because even though we spent a few hours there, there is still much more to see. I would love to go back and explore more of it with my friends!
Big C hike
Again, I’ve done this before during GBO week! It was quite a challenge in my non-running sneakers, so I want to go back with friends and hike it for real.
The Greek Theatre
I’ve heard soo many great things about concerts at the Greek, so I want to try it out next semester during warmer weather!
Beach sunset dinner in SF
This one is a little more abstract, but my friends and I want to head up to SF one night and eat takeout on the beach while watching the sunset, which sounds like a dream.
And now for a few bites to eat…
Sumo Roll
I’ve heard great things about this sushi restaurant that offers sushi burritos in addition to regular rolls — we’re definitely giving it a try one of these days!
Mochinut Berkeley
Imagine a donut combined with the consistency of mochi — that’s the concept of mochinut! I can’t wait to try it soon.
Little Gem Belgian Waffles
The Belgian waffles at this place are supposedly to die for…
Noody
This Asian fusion restaurant offers a variety of different bowl options as well as noodles, of course.
Manpuku
Another sushi option! This one is supposed to be cheap and yummy.
Tacos Sinaloa
Does this need an explanation? Everyone wants a yummy taco!
Lastly, a few things we’ve already checked off (and loved!).
Sunset trampoline
Located a little uphill of the Lawrence Hall of Science is an old trampoline that somehow found its way to a clearing next to a skateboard ramp and a swing! Hop on, and you can catch a beautiful view of the sunset while trampolining with your friends! This was such a relaxing and beautiful experience that took away some of our stress a little before Spring Break.
Dumpling Kitchen
This dim sum restaurant is DELICIOUS — and that’s coming from someone who grew up eating dim sum on weekends in addition to living in Taiwan for a year. Make sure to try the xiao long bao (soup dumplings)!
Dumpling Time
Although it is a little more expensive than Dumpling Kitchen, this dumpling restaurant is also to die for. It offers a modern twist on some traditional Chinese dishes, such as red-colored (instead of white) xiao long bao!
Cinnaholic
This dessert shop offers a variety of delicious cinnamon rolls — topped with any type of sweet topping you could dream of! A must-try.
Imm Thai Street Food
If you’re looking for street food-style Thai food, give Imm Thai a try! My favorite Thai dish — pad see ew — is phenomenal here.
Sodoi Coffee Tasting House
A serene coffee shop located close to the main campus, this place serves a variety of caffeinated beverages as well as yummy pastries!
We at the Clog hope this (somewhat haphazard) list motivates you to make the most of the rest of this semester or look forward to your arrival back on campus next fall!
