UC Berkeley Food Guide: A Guide to Eating and Drinking Around Campus

Whether studying or visiting the University of California, Berkeley(UC Berkeley), dining is a daily routine that can't be overlooked. Beyond its world-class academic resources, Berkeley boasts an equally impressive and diverse culinary scene. From campus restaurants and student-favorite late-night food stalls to tucked-away creative cuisine and celebrity-favorite dessert shops, this comprehensive food guide is a must-read for you, whether you're a freshman or a seasoned foodie exploring the San Francisco Bay Area!

1. There are also "hidden delicacies" on campus

Café 3, Clark Kerr Dining Commons, Foothill Dining Commons

These three main campus dining halls offer a wide variety of options at relatively affordable prices, making them popular with boarding students. Café 3 offers a fusion of international cuisine; Clark Kerr emphasizes balanced nutrition; and Foothill offers beautiful views, perfect for enjoying a meal while enjoying the view.

The Golden Bear Café (GBC)

GBC, located in Sproul Plaza, is a popular spot for students to recharge before meeting and finishing their papers. Their breakfast sandwiches, freshly ground coffee, and organic salads are always in high demand.

Pizzeria 1868

Located in Unit 3 of the student housing complex, this place serves freshly baked, handmade pizzas, making it a heartwarming late-night treat. The flavors change daily, so you're lucky to get a spot.

2. Telegraph Avenue: UC Berkeley’s Culinary Artery

Thai Basil

Located in the heart of Durant Avenue's Asian food court, this spot specializes in classic Thai home-style dishes. Its fragrant chicken satay and generous portions of fried rice noodles are all available at affordable prices, making it a top-tier campus fast-food spot.

Artichoke Basille's Pizza

The pizza slices are as big as faces, and the cheese is so stringy. The artichoke flavor is especially recommended. This flavor, popular in New York, is also very popular in Berkeley and is the most satisfying comfort after a late-night exam.

Top Dog

The legendary hot dog stand, with lines still lining up at 2 a.m., is a cultural icon at UC Berkeley. The chicken and apple sausage is a timeless classic, and the political slogans plastered on the walls add a unique street culture feel.

3. Downtown Berkeley: A great place for dinner and gatherings

Sliver

Only one creative pizza is launched every day, served with salad and free breadsticks. The way of eating is simple but very unique. Live music makes this place a gathering place where pizza and art meet.

Bleecker Bistro

Known as a hangover recovery station, Bleecker is particularly famous for its breakfast. Their generously sized Hangover Omelette is a great way to recover after exam week.

La Marcha Tapas Bar

The restaurant specializes in Spanish tapas and signature seafood risotto, which is layered with cuttlefish ink, fennel sausage and smoked caviar, creating a feast for both taste and vision.

4. Special snacks and desserts, don’t miss it!

Plentea

A pioneer in the eco-friendly boba milk tea world. Its reusable, aesthetically pleasing glass bottles have become a social media sensation. Their Caramel Sea Salt Milk Tea with Coconut Nata combination is highly recommended.

Little Gem Belgian Waffles

The alluring aroma of Belgian waffles practically draws you in. The combination of Nutella, strawberries, and ice cream is a dreamy dessert, perfect for a post-class treat.

Cream

This dessert, featuring ice cream sandwiched between two freshly baked cookies, offers a rich and varied taste. You can choose any flavor combination, making it a top choice for Berkeley students.

5. Exotic flavors and great value for money

Vik's Chaat Corner

This bustling Southeast Asian food haven on Fourth Street offers juicy pani puri and spicy cholle bhature. Afterward, you can buy curry sauces and spices to take home.

Middle East Market Kitchen

Hidden behind a Middle Eastern supermarket, this Persian kitchen specializes in braised lamb shanks and herb rice. Their freshly baked Persian flatbreads offer a warm and down-to-earth taste of home.

Funky Elephant

This unconventional Thai comfort food dish is from the chef of the renowned Hawker Fare restaurant. We recommend the Thai-style poached chicken with rice and fried Brussels sprouts, which offer just the right amount of spice and a unique flavor.

6. The emotional stronghold of the student community

Gypsy's Trattoria Italiana

At this Italian restaurant in the Asian food court on campus, each Calosun wrap can feed two people. The free garlic bread is a heartwarming addition, making it a favorite dinner option for those living paycheck to paycheck.

Indian Flavors Express

The chana masala and garlic naan combination is a perfect match, rich in spice and excellent value. Be sure to carefully consider the spice level when ordering, or you might end up in tears.

7. Internet celebrities and stars visit the restaurant

Yogurt Park

A yogurt mecca that even stars like Zendaya and others have made low-key appearances. Open since 1977, it offers refreshing flavors and reasonable prices, making it a classic afternoon dessert.

Kopi Bar & Bakery (reopening soon)

A specialty coffee shop created by Fijian sisters is about to reopen at the BAMPFA Museum, combining Indonesian snacks and flavorful coffee, creating a strong sense of cultural fusion.

8. Dining Tips

• The on-campus meal plan can be paired with Grubhub online ordering to save time.

• Many restaurants near the Telegraph and Downtown accept student discounts.

• The restaurant's peak hours are 12 noon and 6 pm, so it is recommended to plan ahead.

• There are many choices for vegetarian or halal diners, so be sure to ask in advance about the dishes.

Berkeley is not only a place of knowledge, but also a city of delicious food. Step outside the classroom and explore these restaurants along Telegraph, Shattuck, or Durant, where every bite has the potential to become a memorable puzzle piece. Whether you enjoy fast food, desserts, exotic cuisine, or fine dining, Berkeley's culinary scene has something for everyone.