The 20 Best Restaurants in Berkeley, California

Fish & Bird Sousaku Izakaya is a Michelin-selected restaurant offering modern Japanese cuisine in an elevated izakaya style. Dishes highlight precise textures and balanced flavors, from delicately crisp fried chicken to artful seafood preparations. The clean, industrial-inspired dining room and use of modern ordering technology create a contemporary setting. Attentive, knowledgeable service adds to the polished experience.

Wat Mongkolratanaram offers a casual Thai brunch set within a working temple, featuring both meat and vegetarian dishes along with soups and traditional desserts such as mango sticky rice. Guests order from separate stations and then dine at shared outdoor picnic tables. The setting combines lively crowds with an organized service style, and staff are noted for their welcoming manner.

Revival Bar+Kitchen offers creative New American cuisine with a focus on fresh, locally sourced ingredients and thoughtful flavor combinations. Brunch favorites such as beignets, chicken and waffles, and baked egg shakshuka stand alongside seasonal dishes like Dungeness crab deviled eggs and tender ribs. A stylish bar, large street-facing windows, and a comfortable dining room create an inviting setting for drinks and dining.

The Berkeley Boathouse serves contemporary California cuisine in a nautical-inspired dining room overlooking the bay and Golden Gate Bridge. Guests note a range of options, including vegetarian and vegan dishes as well as hearty breakfast selections. Attentive, friendly service and striking waterfront views define the overall experience.

LIMEWOOD BAR & RESTAURANT combines a lively bar scene with refined dining and striking sunset views. Guests highlight well-crafted drinks alongside dishes such as rich pâté, burgers, fresh seafood, and chicken. Service is noted for being attentive, knowledgeable, and helpful with food and wine selections, creating a polished yet relaxed experience within the hotel setting.

Set in a former bike shop, Creekwood Restaurant offers a modern yet comfortable neighborhood setting with an open kitchen and warm wood accents. The menu focuses on thoughtfully prepared Italian-inspired dishes, including Naples-style thin crust pizzas, seasonal salads, and fresh pastas such as Dungeness crab pasta and mushroom gnocchi. A well-chosen wine list and attentive, well-paced service complement the relaxed atmosphere.

Set within the historic Berkeley City Club designed by Julia Morgan, Julia's Restaurant offers a formal white-tablecloth experience in an elegant, almost castle-like setting. The menu focuses on traditional, well-prepared dishes, complemented by a considered wine list and a simple, classic bar. A relaxed pace and stately dining room make it well suited to lingering meals and special occasions.

Skates On The Bay offers a seafood-focused menu complemented by expansive waterfront views, including sunsets over the bay and passing sailboats. Guests highlight fresh oysters, mussels, and seared tuna, presented with attention to flavor and appearance. Attentive, team-oriented service and a comfortable bar area contribute to a relaxed, polished dining experience.

Tokyo Fish Market is a well-regarded seafood market offering a wide selection of very fresh fish, including options suited for dishes like lox. The counter team is attentive and can provide packing on ice as well as cooking tips. Shelves feature a broad range of Japanese pantry items such as rice, soy sauces, and spices, along with fresh produce. It is a convenient stop for sourcing ingredients for Japanese-inspired home cooking.

Fournée Bakery specializes in French-style artisanal breads and pastries, with flaky croissants, crusty baguettes, and an array of delicate desserts. Everything is baked on a small scale with clear attention to quality ingredients and traditional technique. This intimate neighborhood bakery often draws a line from regulars who come for its authentic, carefully crafted offerings.

Sconehenge Bakery & Cafe serves classic coffee shop breakfasts alongside a selection of Mexican-inspired dishes and house-baked scones and muffins. Guests highlight the flavorful coffee drinks, including lattes, and satisfying egg dishes such as avocado omelettes. The lively, family-friendly setting and attentive staff contribute to its welcoming neighborhood feel.

Ippuku is a Michelin Bib Gourmand restaurant offering a Japanese izakaya experience centered on charcoal-grilled yakitori and other skewers. The menu highlights earthy, smoky flavors, from classic chicken cuts to more adventurous options, along with grilled rice balls, vegetables, and comforting rice porridge. An extensive selection of shochu, sake, beer, and whisky complements the food, while knowledgeable staff guide guests through the offerings.

Great China is a Michelin Bib Gourmand restaurant known for authentic Beijing-style cooking and carefully prepared Chinese favorites. Signature dishes such as Peking duck and handmade dumplings highlight the kitchen’s focus on flavor and tradition. The dining room often fills at lunchtime, and attentive service contributes to a smooth, satisfying experience.

Comal is a Michelin Bib Gourmand restaurant offering vibrant, ingredient-focused Mexican cuisine near downtown Berkeley. An open kitchen, enclosed patio, and lively bar create an energetic setting for dishes like barbacoa burritos, grilled chicken, and housemade chips with salsa. Attentive, welcoming service and well-crafted margaritas round out the experience.

AKEMI Japanese Restaurant offers fresh, carefully prepared Japanese cuisine in Berkeley, with an emphasis on sushi, sashimi, and comforting ramen. Guests highlight the quality of the fish, from salmon skin rolls to specialty sashimi, as well as flavorful small plates like pork gyoza and tempura. A sake sampler adds to the experience for those interested in exploring different styles.

Hana Japan Steak and Seafood offers a classic Japanese steakhouse experience featuring teppanyaki-style cooking with steak, chicken, seafood, and sushi. Chefs prepare meals on the grill with an entertaining flair, while dishes arrive hot with fresh ingredients and satisfying portions. Efficient, accommodating staff and an energetic dining room make it suitable for both groups and casual bar seating.