Discover Berkeley's Best Brunch Spots: A Guide to the Ultimate Weekend Brunch Experience
Looking for the best brunch in Berkeley? Look no further! From classic eggs benedict to avocado toast, we've got it all. Come brunch with us!
If you're on the hunt for the best brunch in Berkeley, look no further. This vibrant college town boasts a wide range of brunch options, from trendy cafes to classic diners. Whether you're in the mood for savory dishes or sweet treats, Berkeley has something for everyone.
One of the top spots for brunch in Berkeley is Cafe Ohlone. This unique restaurant offers a modern take on Native American cuisine, with dishes like acorn pancakes and smoked salmon with wild onions. The cozy atmosphere and friendly staff make it the perfect spot for a lazy Sunday morning.
If you're looking for something a little more traditional, head to Rick and Ann's. This beloved Berkeley institution has been serving up hearty breakfast and brunch dishes for over 30 years. Their famous cornmeal pancakes are a must-try, and the cozy ambiance will make you feel right at home.
For a more upscale brunch experience, try Comal. This Mexican-inspired restaurant has a brunch menu that features everything from chilaquiles to huevos rancheros. The cocktails are also not to be missed – try the spicy margarita for a little kick.
If you're in the mood for something sweet, head to Crixa Cakes. This charming bakery specializes in European-style pastries and desserts, including croissants, macarons, and tarts. Their brunch menu features quiches and frittatas, but the true star is their French toast – made with brioche and served with fresh fruit and whipped cream.
For a taste of Japan, head to Kiraku. This cozy izakaya serves up a unique brunch menu that includes dishes like tamago kake gohan (rice topped with raw egg) and okonomiyaki (a savory pancake filled with cabbage and other toppings). The atmosphere is laid-back and welcoming, making it the perfect spot for a low-key brunch with friends.
Another great option for brunch in Berkeley is Bartavelle Cafe. This hip cafe serves up a rotating menu of seasonal dishes, like shakshuka and avocado toast. The coffee is also top-notch – they source their beans from some of the best roasters in the country.
If you're a fan of Mediterranean cuisine, head to La Mediterranee. This family-owned restaurant has been serving up delicious brunch dishes for over 35 years. Their menu includes savory items like shakshuka and lamb sausage, as well as sweet treats like baklava and fruit tarts.
For a taste of the South, head to Angeline's Louisiana Kitchen. This vibrant restaurant serves up classic Cajun and Creole dishes, like shrimp and grits and beignets. The atmosphere is lively and colorful, with live music on weekends.
If you're looking for a vegan brunch option, try Herbivore. This plant-based restaurant has a diverse menu that includes tofu scrambles, vegan pancakes, and even vegan eggs benedict. The portions are generous and the prices are reasonable, making it a great spot for a budget-friendly brunch.
No matter what your brunch preferences are, Berkeley has something to offer. From classic diners to trendy cafes, this vibrant town has a brunch scene that's not to be missed. So next time you're looking for a lazy Sunday morning meal, head to one of these top spots and indulge in some delicious food and great company.
Introduction
Berkeley is a vibrant city in the San Francisco Bay Area that has a lot to offer. One of the best things about Berkeley is its food scene, which features a wide variety of cuisines and dining experiences. If you're looking for a great brunch in Berkeley, you're in luck. There are many fantastic options to choose from, each with its own unique atmosphere and menu. In this article, we'll take a closer look at some of the best brunch spots in Berkeley.Café M
Café M is a cozy and charming café located in the heart of Berkeley. This popular spot is known for its delicious brunch menu, which features dishes like buttermilk pancakes, breakfast burritos, and quiches. The café also offers a variety of coffee drinks and freshly squeezed juices. One of the best things about Café M is its relaxed and welcoming atmosphere, which makes it a great place to start your day.The Menu
The menu at Café M is full of classic brunch dishes with a fresh twist. Some of the most popular items include the buttermilk pancakes, which are light and fluffy and come with your choice of topping, such as fresh berries or whipped cream. The breakfast burritos are also a hit, filled with scrambled eggs, cheese, and your choice of bacon or sausage. For something a little lighter, try one of the café's quiches, which are made with fresh vegetables and a flaky crust.The Atmosphere
Café M has a cozy and welcoming atmosphere that makes it a great place to relax and enjoy a leisurely brunch. The café is decorated with colorful artwork and features plenty of natural light, creating a warm and inviting space. Whether you're catching up with friends or enjoying a solo meal, Café M is a great spot to start your day.Brown Sugar Kitchen
Brown Sugar Kitchen is a popular brunch spot located in West Oakland, just a short drive from Berkeley. This restaurant is known for its creative and delicious brunch menu, which features dishes like chicken and waffles, shrimp and grits, and cornmeal pancakes. The restaurant also offers a variety of cocktails and mocktails, making it a great place to enjoy a boozy brunch.The Menu
The menu at Brown Sugar Kitchen is full of Southern-inspired dishes with a modern twist. The chicken and waffles are a must-try, featuring crispy fried chicken and fluffy waffles topped with brown sugar butter. The shrimp and grits are also a hit, made with creamy stone-ground grits and succulent shrimp. For something sweet, try the cornmeal pancakes, which are served with maple syrup and whipped cream.The Atmosphere
Brown Sugar Kitchen has a cozy and welcoming atmosphere that makes it a great place to enjoy a leisurely brunch. The restaurant features exposed brick walls and warm lighting, creating a cozy and intimate space. Whether you're looking for a romantic brunch date or a fun meal with friends, Brown Sugar Kitchen is a great choice.Comal
Comal is a Mexican-inspired restaurant located in Downtown Berkeley. While the restaurant is known for its dinner menu, it also offers a fantastic weekend brunch. The brunch menu features dishes like chilaquiles, huevos rancheros, and breakfast tacos. Comal also offers a variety of cocktails, including mimosas and Bloody Marys, making it a great place to enjoy a boozy brunch.The Menu
The brunch menu at Comal is full of Mexican-inspired dishes with a modern twist. The chilaquiles are a must-try, featuring crispy tortilla chips topped with salsa, cheese, and your choice of protein. The huevos rancheros are also a hit, made with fried eggs, salsa, and refried beans. For something a little different, try the breakfast tacos, which are filled with scrambled eggs, chorizo, and avocado.The Atmosphere
Comal has a modern and stylish atmosphere that makes it a great spot for a fancy brunch. The restaurant features high ceilings, exposed brick walls, and a sleek bar area. Whether you're looking for a romantic brunch date or a fun meal with friends, Comal is a great choice.Gather
Gather is a farm-to-table restaurant located in Downtown Berkeley. The restaurant is known for its sustainable and locally sourced ingredients, as well as its creative and delicious brunch menu. The menu features dishes like shakshuka, avocado toast, and brioche French toast. Gather also offers a variety of cocktails and mocktails, making it a great place to enjoy a boozy brunch.The Menu
The brunch menu at Gather is full of creative and delicious dishes that showcase the restaurant's commitment to sustainability and local ingredients. The shakshuka is a must-try, featuring eggs poached in a spicy tomato sauce and served with crusty bread. The avocado toast is also a hit, topped with pickled onions, radishes, and a poached egg. For something sweet, try the brioche French toast, which is served with caramelized bananas and whipped cream.The Atmosphere
Gather has a stylish and modern atmosphere that makes it a great spot for a fancy brunch. The restaurant features high ceilings, an open kitchen, and plenty of natural light. Whether you're looking for a romantic brunch date or a fun meal with friends, Gather is a great choice.La Note
La Note is a charming French café located in Downtown Berkeley. The restaurant is known for its authentic and delicious French cuisine, as well as its cozy and welcoming atmosphere. The brunch menu features dishes like croissants, quiches, and crepes. La Note also offers a variety of coffee drinks and freshly squeezed juices, making it a great place to start your day.The Menu
The brunch menu at La Note is full of classic French dishes with a fresh twist. The croissants are a must-try, featuring light and flaky pastry filled with butter and jam. The quiches are also a hit, made with fresh vegetables and a buttery crust. For something sweet, try one of the café's crepes, which are filled with Nutella, bananas, and whipped cream.The Atmosphere
La Note has a cozy and charming atmosphere that makes it a great place to relax and enjoy a leisurely brunch. The café is decorated with vintage French posters and features plenty of natural light, creating a warm and inviting space. Whether you're catching up with friends or enjoying a solo meal, La Note is a great spot to start your day.Conclusion
Berkeley is home to many fantastic brunch spots, each with its own unique atmosphere and menu. Whether you're looking for a cozy café or a fancy restaurant, there's something for everyone in this vibrant city. From classic brunch dishes to creative and innovative cuisine, these restaurants are sure to satisfy your cravings and leave you feeling satisfied. So the next time you're in Berkeley, be sure to check out one of these amazing brunch spots.A Brunch Lover's Guide to BerkeleyBerkeley is a city famous for its vibrant culture, stunning views, and delicious food. If you're a brunch lover, then you're in for a treat! Berkeley boasts an impressive brunch scene with something for everyone. Whether you're looking for a classic breakfast dish, vegan options, or bottomless mimosas, Berkeley has it all. In this article, we'll take you through the top brunch spots, hidden gems, outdoor brunch spots, budget-friendly options, and socially conscious brunch spots in Berkeley.The Top Brunch Spots in Berkeley You Need to Try1. Rick and Ann's: This classic Berkeley brunch spot is a must-visit. The menu boasts classic breakfast dishes like pancakes, omelets, and eggs benedict. The portions are generous, and the prices are reasonable. Don't forget to try their famous biscuits and gravy!2. Bette's Oceanview Diner: Another classic Berkeley establishment, Bette's Oceanview Diner is known for its delicious breakfast pastries and homemade jams. The menu features classic breakfast dishes as well as unique specials like the smoked trout scramble.3. La Note: This charming French bistro is a favorite among locals and visitors alike. The menu features classic French breakfast dishes like croissants, quiches, and crepes. Don't forget to try their lavender latte!4. Cafe M: If you're in the mood for something sweet, head to Cafe M. This bakery and cafe offer a wide range of pastries, cakes, and tarts. Their brunch menu features sweet and savory crepes, breakfast sandwiches, and egg dishes.5. Comal: For a Mexican-inspired brunch, head to Comal. The brunch menu features chilaquiles, huevos rancheros, and breakfast tacos. Don't forget to try their spicy Bloody Mary!Best Brunch in Berkeley: Our Favorite Picks1. Cafe Durant: This cozy cafe is a favorite among students and locals alike. The menu features classic breakfast dishes as well as unique specials like the breakfast burrito with chorizo and avocado. The prices are reasonable, and the portions are generous.2. Gather: If you're looking for a socially conscious brunch spot, head to Gather. This farm-to-table restaurant sources all their ingredients locally and prioritizes sustainability. The brunch menu features dishes like baked eggs with mushrooms and polenta and avocado toast with pickled onions.3. Jupiter: For an outdoor brunch experience, head to Jupiter. This brewery and pizzeria have a beautiful patio that's perfect for brunch. The menu features classic breakfast dishes as well as unique pizzas like the breakfast pizza with bacon, eggs, and potatoes.4. Angeline's Louisiana Kitchen: For a taste of the south, head to Angeline's Louisiana Kitchen. The brunch menu features dishes like shrimp and grits, beignets, and fried chicken and waffles. Don't forget to try their bottomless mimosas!5. Cheese Board Collective: If you're in the mood for something unique, head to Cheese Board Collective. This cooperative bakery and pizzeria offer a changing daily menu of vegetarian and vegan dishes. The brunch menu features dishes like breakfast pizza with eggs, potatoes, and arugula.Berkeley's Brunch Scene: Where to Go and What to OrderIf you're new to Berkeley or just looking to try something new, here's a breakdown of where to go and what to order:1. Rick and Ann's: Try the corned beef hash and biscuits and gravy.2. Bette's Oceanview Diner: Try the smoked trout scramble and homemade jam.3. La Note: Try the lavender latte and croque-madame.4. Cafe M: Try the almond croissant and sweet crepes.5. Comal: Try the chilaquiles and spicy Bloody Mary.6. Cafe Durant: Try the breakfast burrito with chorizo and avocado.7. Gather: Try the baked eggs with mushrooms and polenta and avocado toast with pickled onions.8. Jupiter: Try the breakfast pizza with bacon, eggs, and potatoes.9. Angeline's Louisiana Kitchen: Try the shrimp and grits and bottomless mimosas.10. Cheese Board Collective: Try the breakfast pizza with eggs, potatoes, and arugula.Brunching in Berkeley: Hidden Gems and Classic FavoritesIf you're looking for hidden gems and classic favorites, here are some more brunch spots to try:1. Venus: This cozy cafe offers a wide range of breakfast dishes and vegetarian options. Don't forget to try their homemade granola!2. Guerilla Cafe: This hip cafe offers unique breakfast dishes like the braised pork belly sandwich and the kimchi fried rice bowl.3. Elmwood Cafe: This charming cafe is known for its homemade pastries and coffee. The brunch menu features classic breakfast dishes as well as unique specials like the harissa chicken sandwich.4. 900 Grayson: This casual restaurant is a favorite among locals. The brunch menu features dishes like the fried chicken and waffles and the tofu scramble.5. The Butcher's Son: If you're vegan or vegetarian, head to The Butcher's Son. This plant-based deli offers a wide range of breakfast sandwiches and pastries.Brunching with a View: Berkeley's Best Outdoor Brunch SpotsIf you're looking for an outdoor brunch experience, here are some of the best spots with a view:1. Jupiter: This brewery and pizzeria have a beautiful patio that's perfect for brunch.2. Cafe M: This cafe has a small outdoor seating area that's perfect for people watching.3. The Bistro at the Claremont: This upscale hotel restaurant has a beautiful outdoor patio with stunning views of the Bay Area.4. The Berkeley Boathouse: This waterfront restaurant has a beautiful outdoor patio with views of the marina.5. The Faculty Club: This historic building on the UC Berkeley campus has a beautiful outdoor patio with views of the Campanile.Bottomless Mimosas and More: Berkeley's Best Boozy BrunchesIf you're looking for bottomless mimosas or other boozy brunch options, here are some spots to try:1. Angeline's Louisiana Kitchen: This southern-inspired restaurant offers bottomless mimosas and bloody marys.2. Jupiter: This brewery and pizzeria offer bottomless mimosas and beer-mosas.3. Comal: This Mexican-inspired restaurant offers a wide range of cocktails, including spicy Bloody Marys and margaritas.4. The Bistro at the Claremont: This upscale hotel restaurant offers a wide range of brunch cocktails, including Bellinis and mimosas.5. Revival Bar + Kitchen: This trendy restaurant offers a wide range of brunch cocktails, including a bacon Bloody Mary and a grapefruit mimosa.Brunching on a Budget: Affordable Eats in BerkeleyIf you're looking for budget-friendly brunch options, here are some spots to try:1. Cafe Durant: This cozy cafe offers affordable breakfast dishes with generous portions.2. Cheese Board Collective: This cooperative bakery and pizzeria offer affordable vegetarian and vegan brunch options.3. Elmwood Cafe: This charming cafe offers affordable breakfast dishes as well as unique specials like the harissa chicken sandwich.4. Venus: This cozy cafe offers affordable breakfast dishes with vegetarian options.5. 900 Grayson: This casual restaurant offers affordable breakfast dishes with generous portions.Vegan and Vegetarian Brunch Options in BerkeleyIf you're vegan or vegetarian, here are some spots to try:1. The Butcher's Son: This plant-based deli offers a wide range of breakfast sandwiches and pastries.2. Cheese Board Collective: This cooperative bakery and pizzeria offer a changing daily menu of vegetarian and vegan dishes.3. Gather: This farm-to-table restaurant offers a wide range of vegetarian and vegan brunch options.4. Guerilla Cafe: This hip cafe offers unique vegetarian and vegan breakfast dishes like the kimchi fried rice bowl.5. Cafe Gratitude: This plant-based restaurant offers a wide range of breakfast dishes, including pancakes and tofu scrambles.Brunching for a Cause: Berkeley's Socially Conscious Brunch SpotsIf you're looking to brunch for a cause, here are some socially conscious brunch spots to try:1. Gather: This farm-to-table restaurant sources all their ingredients locally and prioritizes sustainability.2. Revival Bar + Kitchen: This trendy restaurant sources their ingredients locally and prioritizes sustainability.3. The Cooperative Movement Cafe: This worker-owned cafe sources their ingredients from cooperatives and prioritizes social justice.4. East Bay Spice Company: This Indian-inspired restaurant sources their ingredients locally and prioritizes sustainability.5. Mission Heirloom: This organic cafe sources their ingredients from local farms and prioritizes sustainability.In conclusion, Berkeley has an impressive brunch scene with something for everyone. Whether you're a classic breakfast lover, vegan, or looking for bottomless mimosas, Berkeley has it all. From hidden gems to classic favorites, outdoor brunch spots, budget-friendly options, and socially conscious brunch spots, Berkeley is a brunch lover's paradise.
The Best Brunch in Berkeley: A Comprehensive Guide
Introduction
Brunch is a beloved meal that combines the best of both worlds – breakfast and lunch. Berkeley, California is known for its vibrant food scene and has no shortage of brunch options. But which one is the best? In this guide, we'll explore the pros and cons of some of the top brunch spots in Berkeley and provide a table comparison to help you make an informed decision.The Pros and Cons
1. Cafe M
Pros:
- Delicious menu items like lemon ricotta pancakes and avocado toast
- Great coffee and tea selection
- Cute and cozy atmosphere
Cons:
- Can get crowded and have long wait times
- Limited outdoor seating
- Slightly pricier than other brunch spots in the area
2. La Note
Pros:
- Authentic French cuisine
- Freshly baked pastries and bread
- Extensive vegetarian and gluten-free options
Cons:
- Often long wait times
- Smaller portions for the price
- Not ideal for large groups or families with young children
3. Bartavelle Coffee & Wine Bar
Pros:
- Unique and varied menu items like shakshuka and house-made granola
- Excellent coffee and wine selection
- Spacious outdoor seating area
Cons:
- Not ideal for those looking for traditional brunch fare like pancakes or waffles
- Can get noisy and crowded during peak hours
- Higher prices than other brunch spots in the area
Table Comparison
| Cafe M | La Note | Bartavelle Coffee & Wine Bar | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Menu variety | Good | Good | Excellent |
| Wait times | Long | Long | Can be long |
| Outdoor seating | Limited | None | Spacious |
| Price | Slightly higher | Slightly higher | Higher |
| Noise level | Moderate | Low | High |
Conclusion
In conclusion, the best brunch spot in Berkeley ultimately depends on your personal preferences. Cafe M is a great option for those who love classic brunch dishes with a twist, while La Note is ideal for those seeking an authentic French experience. Bartavelle Coffee & Wine Bar offers a unique and varied menu with an excellent coffee and wine selection. Whichever brunch spot you choose, be prepared for long wait times and slightly higher prices.The Best Brunch in Berkeley
Welcome, dear readers, to the ultimate guide to the best brunch spots in Berkeley! Whether you're a local or just passing through, there's no better way to start your day than with a delicious brunch. From classic American fare to international cuisine, Berkeley has it all. So without further ado, let's dive into the top 10 brunch spots in Berkeley.
First on our list is Cafe M. This cozy little cafe offers a wide range of breakfast and brunch options, from fluffy pancakes to savory omelets. One of their standout dishes is the Breakfast Burrito, which comes stuffed with eggs, cheese, bacon, and avocado. The portions are generous, so come hungry!
Next up is Bette's Oceanview Diner, a Berkeley institution that has been serving up delicious breakfasts since 1982. The menu features classic diner fare like waffles, biscuits and gravy, and corned beef hash. But the real star of the show is the souffle pancake, a fluffy, cloud-like creation that will leave you speechless.
For those who prefer a more health-conscious brunch, look no further than Cafe Gratitude. This vegan restaurant serves up plant-based dishes that are as delicious as they are nutritious. Try the Avocado Toast, which comes piled high with fresh veggies and a creamy cashew spread.
If you're in the mood for something sweet, head over to La Note. This charming French bistro is known for their decadent pastries, like the Croissant French Toast and the Pain Perdu. But don't overlook their savory dishes, like the Provencale omelet with goat cheese and herbs.
For a taste of Southern comfort food, look no further than Angeline's Louisiana Kitchen. This lively restaurant serves up Cajun and Creole cuisine that will transport you straight to the bayou. Try the Shrimp and Grits or the Fried Chicken and Waffles for a truly indulgent brunch.
Another great spot for Southern-inspired brunch is Home Room. This cozy eatery specializes in mac and cheese, but their brunch menu is just as impressive. The Biscuits and Gravy are a must-try, as is the Grits Bowl with bacon, eggs, and cheddar cheese.
For a taste of Japan, head over to Ippuku. This traditional izakaya serves up small plates and sake, but their brunch menu is not to be missed. Try the Tamago Kake Gohan, a rice bowl topped with raw egg and soy sauce, or the Okonomiyaki, a savory pancake filled with cabbage and meat.
If you're looking for a brunch spot with a view, check out Skates on the Bay. This waterfront restaurant offers stunning views of the Golden Gate Bridge and the Bay, as well as a delicious brunch menu. Try the Crab Cake Benedict or the Dungeness Crab Omelet for a taste of the sea.
For a brunch experience that's truly unique, head over to Gather. This farm-to-table restaurant offers a seasonal brunch menu that changes regularly. But one thing that never changes is the quality of the food. Try the Fried Chicken Sandwich or the Shakshuka for a brunch you won't forget.
Last but not least is Bartavelle Coffee & Wine Bar. This charming cafe offers a small but mighty brunch menu, with dishes like the Ricotta Toast and the Smoked Trout Salad. But the real star of the show is the coffee. Bartavelle serves up some of the best coffee in Berkeley, so be sure to grab a cup with your brunch.
Well, folks, that wraps up our guide to the best brunch spots in Berkeley. Whether you're in the mood for classic diner fare or international cuisine, there's something for everyone in this vibrant city. So go forth and brunch, and let us know your favorite spots in the comments below!
People also ask about the best brunch in Berkeley
What are some popular brunch spots in Berkeley?
Some of the most popular brunch spots in Berkeley include:
- La Note - a French-inspired restaurant known for their lavender-infused pancakes and outdoor seating
- Cafe M - a cozy cafe with a variety of breakfast and lunch options, including vegan and gluten-free choices
- Gather - a farm-to-table restaurant that serves brunch on weekends, featuring dishes made with locally sourced ingredients
- Brown Sugar Kitchen - a soul food restaurant that serves brunch all day, with menu items like buttermilk fried chicken and waffles
Do any of these brunch spots offer bottomless mimosas?
Yes, some of these brunch spots offer bottomless mimosas. For example:
- La Note offers bottomless mimosas for $16 per person
- Cafe M offers bottomless mimosas for $15 per person
- Gather offers bottomless mimosas for $18 per person
Are there any good brunch spots with outdoor seating in Berkeley?
Yes, there are several brunch spots in Berkeley with outdoor seating. Some options include:
- La Note, which has a charming outdoor patio
- Cafe M, which has a small outdoor seating area
- Gather, which has a spacious outdoor patio with views of the Bay
What is the average price range for brunch in Berkeley?
The average price range for brunch in Berkeley is between $15 and $25 per person, depending on the restaurant and menu items chosen. Some places, like Brown Sugar Kitchen, may be slightly more expensive due to their specialty dishes.