11 Best Bars in Berkeley

El Patio Bar & Grill • $
2056 San Pablo Ave, Berkeley

Customers` Favorites

Arepa De Pabellón
Guacamole Chips
Empanada Plate
Chicken Arepas
Arepa Pastor
Tacos Asada
Patacones

“We got so much more food than what’s in this photo including the Birria Ramen, Patecones, Tacos, Elote Riblets & Duck Fat Fries, Cheese &Beef empanadas…So delicious. Everything was so good. I think the birria ramen broth was a little too heavy for me, but other than that, the food and vibes were phenomenal.“

4.6 Superb57 Reviews

2
Tipsea

Tipsea Bar • $
2327 Shattuck Ave., Berkeley

Customers` Favorites

Holy Big Burger
Brussels Sprouts
Sriracha Mango
Classic Burger
Tip Sea Fries

“One of the best establishments in Berkeley. In a city that's always busy, I felt instantly comfortable and welcomed by the warm and hospitible staff. Shilo, Felix, and Chloe went above and beyond to ensure that my experience was nothing short of fantastic. Their attention to detail and dedication to providing top-notch service truly sets Tipsea apart. Not only were the staff exceptional, but the drinks were also of the highest quality. Each sip was a delight, expertly crafted and bursting with flavor. Whether it was a classic cocktail or a specialty creation, Tipsea's drinks never failed to impress. Thanks to Shilo, Felix, and Chloe for making my visit unforgettable. I'll definitely be returning soon!“

4.6 Superb51 Reviews
The UC Theatre Taube Family Music Hall Bars • $$
2036 University Ave, Berkeley

“This place was awesome. It is a nonprofit venue. It has 3 levels of viewing. They allow all ages, but ask that all patrons look out for each other and keep each other safe. They have several bars throughout the venue. They also have audience participation Rocky Horror Picture Shows on Valentine's Day and Halloween. The Maoli show was so fun and sounded great!“

4.3 Superb110 Reviews
Juan's Place Mexican • $
941 Carleton St, Berkeley

Customers` Favorites

Chicken Enchilada and Pork Burrito
Beef Taco Green Chicken Enchilada
Chips with Green and Red Salsa
Chicken Mole Enchiladas
Al Pastor Super Burrito
Grilled Chicken Salad
Chips and Salsa
Burrito Plate
Chile Verde
Chicka Soup

“I felt like the workers were related (owners). The best customer service. The food very delicious and fresh off the stove. Very hot. Everything in there menu is yummmy. The picture is of there New York Steak with rice and beans. Muy rico. They have been in business I think since the 70s or earlier.Highly recommend that you eat there often!Parking: Plenty of street parking.Kid-friendliness: Kid friendly and perfect for everyone of all ages.Wheelchair accessibility: Nice long ramp“

4.3 Superb66 Reviews

5
Ippuku

Ippuku Japanese • $$$
2130 Center St, Berkeley

Customers` Favorites

Buta Bara Kurobuta Pork Belly
Squid Ink Fried Rice
Cabbage Appetizer
Chicken Kara-Age
Minced Chicken
Grilled Squid
Ippuku Ramen
Raw Chicken
Yakitori
Mackerel

“Came here for my 31st birthday dinner on Wednesday, January 17th! Ippuku is one of those places I always walked by when I was a student at Cal (c/o 2015, GO BEARS!), and have been meaning to try. It was super easy to make reservations ahead of time. I had booked the Treehouse seating, since it was just a party of 2 for me and my husband, which I'm glad I did because it made the experience more intimate, private, and reminded me of an izakaya in Japan. My husband and I went to Japan spring of 2023, and miss the food very much. Ippuku is probably as close as we can get to Japan, in the East Bay! Vibes: very mixed crowd. I saw many college students that were dressed super casually (think sweats, probably gonna go back to the library later to study), as well as well-dressed older couples. My husband and I definitely fit in with the latter since we wanted to dress up a little for my birthday. Ippuku has an expansive whiskey bar, so we had to snap a photo or two there.It took us awhile to get seated because the restaurant was packed, but once we were seated, our waiter was very attentive given how busy they were. I would rate service 4/5 because of the long wait time to get seated and because the waiter forgot to include one item of our order, and it was an item that takes longer than typical to come out (the grilled onigiri). When the onigiri finally came out, we had already finished eating everything else so it was a bit underwhelming. But overall, we enjoyed everything we ordered and would definitely want to visit Ippuku again in the future.Parking: You're in Downtown Berkeley and there's lot of foot traffic around here, so it was a bit difficult to find parking at first. We had to circle around a few times before we found street parking.“

4.1 Good60 Reviews
Berkeley Social Club Korean • $$
2050 University Ave, Berkeley

Customers` Favorites

Mascarpone Blueberry Stuffed Crunch French Toast
Chicken and Waffles
Millionaire's Bacon

“I haven't done a review in awhile. I just have to get that 4.3 up to at least 4.7. I only got one dish so far and plan to come back for sure. I'm ready to be disappointed but highly doubt it. Unless the chef spits out a mouthful of spiders onto my plate. I'm sure whatever they do is fiyah fire. Even the spider spit. But I'd rather not have that. Everything on the menu sounds as great as what I got. Udon Curry with Korean Fried Chicken. It's one of those meals that leave you enchanted and joyful at the end. I was totally impressed. I was in a rush but otherwise I would've took off my clothes and took a nap until I was hungry enough to order again. Long story short. This shiet was bomb diggity good good. But on some seriousness...Looking forward to trying out more of their food. I get a sense they're on that trendy type wave...but the flavor was amazing and I'm hoping they keep it authentic and true to the ingredients, culture, and recipes. That's what really matters in the end. You don't have to try to impress anybody with that Barbie or hot Cheetos type shniz. Though I appreciate it in it's flare and appeal to modern relevancy. And I'm sure it's amazing. But stay true to the simplicity of elegant and authentic flavors that make your dishes shine. Real talk. Real game. That food is the real thang to me. Keep doing your thing. I'll be back.“

4.2 Good98 Reviews
East Bay Spice Company Indian • $$
2134 Oxford St, Berkeley

Customers` Favorites

The Original Tikka Masala Flatbread
Chicken Tikka Masala Flatbread
Tandoori Street Two Tacos
Tandoori Street Tacos
Seasonal Vegetables
Prawn Curry Taco
Lamb Chops
Samosas

“One of the few Indian restaurants in Berkeley that stays open late. The food and drinks are incredibly good. However, it's quite difficult to get a table unless you're willing to hang out at the very loud trendy bar for an hour or more with the young hipster college crowd.“

4 Good87 Reviews
Raleigh's Pub Bar • $
2438 Telegraph Ave, Berkeley

Customers` Favorites

Fries

“I didn't like the cocktail they made me, but if you want simple drinks or beer, it's a nice, lively spot. Lots of college kids, of course, since it's right by UC Berkeley. I like the fire they have indoors, plenty of outdoor seating, too.“

4.2 Good76 Reviews
Bear's Lair Pubs • $$
2465 Bancroft Way #140, Berkeley

Customers` Favorites

Tillamook Cheddar
Crispy Fries

“I love the positive reviews and I guarantee that anyone who loved the food in the past is going to love it even more this year. Super talented chef, amazing menu and remarkably hard working staff. Do yourself a favor and stop in before a show“

4.6 Superb7 Reviews

10
Fonda

Fonda Mexican • $$
1501 Solano Ave, Berkeley

Customers` Favorites

Grilled Skirt Steak
Chicken Flautas

“Wow! That should encapsulate everything I'm about to say. To start things off to a strong warm welcoming for me, duck as a protein is a sign that this place was meant to be. The duck tacos with guacamole and pomegranate seeds were a nice end to my day. I confess I'm now using pomegranate when I roast a duck! At Fonda, the meat is tender, juicy, and so flavorful. An unexpected treat! The fried plantains are delightful and they're paired with black beans, cream, and salsa molcajete. If you're not a fan of overtly spicy things, like me, get the salsa on the side as I will in the future but regardless, all things were tasty! The drinks are well made and thoughtful. It didn't feel like I was just ordering from a generic drink menu. The Fonda drink was delightful. Overall I suggest this place for lovers of Latin food. On my try list: mushroom empanadas, tuna tartare, and fish tacos. I believe I shall pair it with an Idle Hands cocktail! Great job to the chefs and staff at Fonda!“

4.2 Good37 Reviews
Acme Bar & Company Bar • $$
2115 San Pablo Ave, Berkeley

“While looking for a place to learn how to enjoy whiskey, I stumbled upon this place, for the second time, (forget what it was 30 years ago)Is the epitome of a warm cozy spot. Super friendly staff, informative about whiskey, great clientele, and decent prices all make for one great experience. I will be back!“

4.1 Good41 Reviews
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