Atly Logo
New Yorkers 1st Choice
Berkeley's best

Authentic seafood

Fresh seafood prepared the traditional way is the only thing that satisfies a craving for the coast.

Based on 715 Opinions
+712
User
User
User
Updated May 2026
01
Azure Hot Pot image 1
Azure Hot Pot image 2
Azure Hot Pot image 3
View all
Restaurant

Bright indoor space features wall murals and cute doodles, creating a cozy and lively atmosphere. Music adds to the welcoming vibe, making it a comfortable spot for groups. The environment stays fresh without lingering steam, enhancing the overall experience.

Sauces deliver authentic Thai flavors with a rich, spicy Tom Yum broth. The spicy seafood sauce stands out as a key authentic element.

Fresh seafood stands out with shrimp that is large and well-sized. The authentic spicy seafood sauce adds a flavorful kick and complements the dishes well.

People are saying

"I found the soup here to be really tasty and flavorful."

"The seafood here is so fresh, especially the shrimp."

"The authentic Thai hotpot soup bases are flavorful and delicious."

Good to know

1

The price is $41.99 per person for all-you-can-eat hot pot.

2

Children under 5 eat free with a paying adult.

3

The restaurant allows 90 minutes maximum for unlimited ordering.

02
Pho Le image 1
Vietnamese restaurant

Vietnamese restaurant with a quiet, pleasant dining room and a menu blending authentic Chinese and Vietnamese dishes. Offers large portions with reasonable prices and includes vegetarian options. The atmosphere feels calm, with a focus on Szechuan flavors alongside traditional pho.

Chinese recipes stay very close to tradition with authentic flavors. Pho features great little beef meatballs and a rich, genuine taste.

Fish dishes feature authentic spices and generous portions. The boiling fish offers a mild fragrant spiciness that appeals even to those sensitive to heat. Sichuan peppercorn fish smells great without overwhelming spice.

People are saying

"The Vietnamese food here, especially the pho and dumplings, is delicious."

"I found the Chinese recipes here to be very authentic and well-spiced."

"The seafood here is fragrant and not too spicy."

Good to know

1

Pho Le offers affordable lunch specials that are popular among locals.

2

The portions are large, often providing leftovers for later.

3

The menu features a few rarely seen recipes like the beef tripe appetizer.

03
Sistory Thai Kitchen image 1
Thai restaurant

Small, cozy Thai restaurant with an intimate atmosphere and upscale vibe. Welcoming space suits friends, dates, or solo dining with a family-friendly feel. Known for unique dishes alongside staples, offering a pleasant, comfortable experience.

Delivers authentic Thai cuisine with strong flavor and generous portions at a fair price.

Whole fried fish with Thai salad and spicy chili lime dressing stands out alongside shrimp Pad Thai and pineapple fried rice with shrimp. Fish cakes offer a familiar, home-style flavor.

People are saying

"The lunch combo offered great value and a generous portion."

"The Tom Yum fried rice with seafood is so flavorful."

"It's authentic Thai food that delivers on taste and price."

Good to know

1

The lunch special includes an appetizer, main dish, drink, and salad for $20.

2

Expect reasonable prices with lunch portions offering great value.

3

Reservations are not required, and seating is usually available during lunch hours.

04
Lao Garden Restaurant & Bar image 1
Laotian restaurant

Space features vibrant, colorful decor and an open kitchen that adds visual interest. Atmosphere stays casual and family-friendly, with a quiet terrace offering a peaceful spot for drinks. Patrons enjoy an extensive Laotian menu rooted in traditional recipes, creating a genuine cultural experience.

Food offers authentic Lao flavors with dishes true to traditional recipes. The menu features delicious Laotian cuisine that captures genuine tastes.

Fish platter stands out with its strong flavors. Small plates like shrimp with eggplant and basil, and catfish, offer solid options. Chef's stir fry eggplant with shrimp adds variety to the seafood choices.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and clearly made with great care."

"The authentic Laotian food here has such meaningful flavors."

"The seafood here has an authentic taste and quality."

Good to know

1

Parking is relatively easy to find, about 15 minutes from downtown Berkeley.

2

Several dishes are available with vegetarian substitutions.

3

The menu includes a variety of vegetarian options and modifications.

05
Butterfish Sushi image 1
Sushi restaurant

Small dining space with dimmed lighting and light music creates a cozy, buzzy atmosphere. Tables sit close together in a beautifully designed interior featuring thoughtful Japanese aesthetics. The place fills quickly, making reservations advisable for a lively, intimate experience.

Sushi here captures authentic Japanese flavors with fresh ingredients and careful artistry. The dishes deliver a genuine taste that reflects traditional preparation.

Fresh fish arrives cut perfectly with no extra rice padding, especially on the salmon avocado roll. Oysters on a half shell offer a symphony of flavors and textures using fine seafood ingredients throughout.

People are saying

"I thought the sushi here was the best I'd ever had."

"I've enjoyed everything I've ordered here; the seafood is delicious."

"The flavors here are so authentic, they took me right back to Japan."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended due to the restaurant's small size.

2

Expect high prices for sushi, with some rolls costing around $20.

3

The restaurant emphasizes sustainability by using minimal plastic.

06
Kabana Restaurant image 1
Pakistani restaurant

Family-run spot with high ceilings and a relaxed, friendly vibe where guests often linger. The space feels unpretentious and full of character, offering an authentic atmosphere that reflects its roots. Regulars enjoy a casual setting that blends a cozy, mom-and-pop feel with simple decor.

A Pakistani baji runs the kitchen, delivering authentic Pakistani flavor and spices. The food stays consistently delicious and true to traditional taste.

Fish dishes stand out with Tandoori Fish served alongside Plain Paratha. Other seafood options like fish tikka also come through tasty and well-prepared.

People are saying

"I found the Pakistani food here to be the most authentic I've ever had."

"The chai here tastes like home, authentic Pakistani flavors."

"I found the seafood here to be always lovely."

Good to know

1

They are planning to start serving halwa poori on weekends.

2

Parking should be free and easy in a back street or for $1/h on University.

3

The wait time at the restaurant is not long at all.

07
Easterly-Berkeley image 1
Chinese restaurant

Large, airy space with bright lighting and sophisticated decor creates a welcoming, comfortable atmosphere. Crowds gather eagerly, especially for authentic Hunan cuisine served cafeteria-style. The environment feels clean and elegant, making it suitable for big group dinners.

Food focuses on authentic Hunan cuisine with a wide variety of dishes. Signature items include coconut chicken hot pot and Hunan-style eggplant, emphasizing flavor over just spice.

Grilled fish stands out for its delicious taste and good value. The menu features spicy roasted fish and chopped chili fish head with balanced spiciness, alongside dishes like sour pickled fish and garlic shrimp.

People are saying

"I found the Hunan cuisine here to be really authentic."

"I loved their unique specialty dishes like coconut chicken."

"I thought the grilled fish seafood was super delicious and cost-effective."

Good to know

1

There are parking spaces available in front of the restaurant.

2

The dishes are reasonably priced, making it a budget-friendly option.

3

Reservations are recommended for large groups to ensure seating.

08
Sichuan Style image 1
Sichuan restaurant

Sichuan restaurant with intricate artwork and a spacious, clean interior creates a comfortable, authentic atmosphere. The space suits family and friends dining and includes a kid- and dog-friendly outdoor area. Seating is ample and the vibe stays relaxed with a traditional touch.

Sichuan cuisine here offers a milder taste compared to traditional versions but stays true to its roots. Dishes like onion cakes and kuo teh with special dipping sauce highlight the authentic flavors and atmosphere.

Spicy Szechuan fish dishes stand out, especially the water-boiled fish and soft tofu fish options. Portions are generous, with fish large enough to share, and the menu includes stir-fried noodles with chicken or shrimp alongside many vegetarian choices.

People are saying

"The food here is authentic and delicious."

"I found the food to be authentic and delicious."

"The Sichuan Seafood here is authentic and delicious."

Good to know

1

Sichuan Style offers a Monday through Friday lunchtime special for $12.95.

2

Expect a friendly queue with wait times around 20 minutes during peak hours.

3

Lunch specials range from $13-17, available from 11:30 AM to 2:30 PM.

09
Chengdu Style Restaurant image 1
Chinese restaurant

Dining room blends traditional and modern Sichuan decor with a cozy, warm atmosphere that feels like being in China. The space fills with lively energy from a busy crowd enjoying authentic Sichuan cuisine prepared by Sichuanese cooks.

Dishes showcase authentic Sichuan flavors with a strong, spicy kick. Fish is notably fresh, and the food uses unique Chinese spices for a genuine taste.

Fish dishes feature tender, flaky white fish cooked just right with no fishiness. Spicy sauces balance Sichuan peppercorns and dried chili to enhance the natural sweetness of the fish.

People are saying

"I found the Chinese food here to be so authentic and delicious."

"The fish here is so fresh and flavorful."

"The seafood here is delicious, especially the tender, flavorful fish."

Good to know

1

Parking is available for free during events.

2

The restaurant offers fast-food-style Chinese meals in boxed lunches costing around $11-14.

3

Portions are generous, providing excellent value for money.

10
Musashi image 1
Japanese restaurant

Quaint, quiet Japanese restaurant with authentic dishes and fresh sushi made to order. Interior offers varied seating areas and a charming atmosphere with occasional distractions from a large screen. The space feels tucked away, creating a calm dining experience despite its central location.

Unagi wappa and chawanmushi show authentic Japanese flavors. The dining experience stays non complicated while blending innovative touches.

Fresh fish stands out with generous portions in combos. Seafood Sampler and fish specials offer variety and great taste.

People are saying

"I found the food here to be amazing and beautifully presented."

"The fish here is so fresh and nicely presented."

"The seafood here is so fresh, I thought it was great."

Good to know

1

Reservations are highly recommended to secure a table, especially during peak hours.

2

Expect some wait times due to the restaurant's smaller size.

3

There is limited indoor waiting space, so plan to wait outside if necessary.

11
El Mono | Fresh Flavors of Peru image 1

Bright, airy space with modern decor and cozy indoor and outdoor seating featuring heaters and propane tanks. Atmosphere is lively with loud live music, which can make conversation difficult. Family-style dining attracts groups, and outdoor seating welcomes dogs.

Dishes feature authentic Peruvian flavors with fresh ingredients and rich sauces. The seco de cordero and Lomo Saltado stand out for their genuine taste that recalls home.

Seafood dishes feature fresh fish and a variety of shellfish like shrimp, clams, squid, and mussels. Signature plates include seafood paella with balanced spice and a whole fried seabass served over it, plus fried calamari with creamy cilantro sauce.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and authentic Peruvian."

"The Peruvian food here tastes so authentic and fresh."

"The seafood paella was loaded with spice, heat, and salt."

Good to know

1

The menu features authentic Peruvian dishes with options for pescatarians and vegans.

2

Parking is easy and ample around the restaurant.

3

They have propane gas tanks at the outdoor seating area for comfort in cold weather.

12
Sol Taqueria image 1
Mexican restaurant

Outdoor patio offers a sunny, beautiful space with plants and heaters that feels removed from street noise. Atmosphere stays lively and exciting with great music and a social vibe. Self-serve chip and salsa bar adds a casual, interactive touch to the dining experience.

Food features authentic Mexican tacos with top-quality preparation and a salsa bar that complements the dishes. Music matches the vibe, adding to the genuine Mexican experience.

Fish tacos stand out with their freshness and flavorful taste. Micheladas with shrimp add a unique seafood twist to the drinks.

People are saying

"The Mexican food here is great, and the staff is super sweet."

"I found the Mexican food and tacos here to be really authentic."

"The micheladas with shrimp were very good and looked amazing."

Good to know

1

Happy hour offers great deals on drinks and appetizers.

2

Taco Tuesday features special pricing on tacos.

3

Street parking is available, along with a shopping center lot nearby.

13
La Mission image 1
Mexican restaurant

Outdoor seating features a heated patio surrounded by lush greenery and garden decor, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere despite cooler weather. Reggae music adds a relaxed vibe, drawing people to the space. Indoor dining tends to feel cooler, while the patio offers a cozy spot for socializing.

Authentic Mexican dishes feature delicious flavors and traditional cooking. Ordering at the counter delivers genuine Mexican flair and taste.

Shrimp dishes stand out with giant, flavorful shrimp grilled to perfection. Fish tacos blend flavors well, offering a consistently delicious and excellent taste experience.

People are saying

"The Mexican food here is generous and delicious."

"The fish tacos here are phenomenal and delicious."

"I found the authentic Mexican food here to be delicious and flavorful."

Good to know

1

Parking is available in the back of the restaurant.

2

The restaurant mainly has outdoor seating with limited indoor options.

3

Expect to pay around $36 for two burritos before tips.

14
Kinda Izakaya image 1
Izakaya restaurant

Small space with Tokyo izakaya decor and walls covered in Japanese anime posters creates a lively, jovial atmosphere. Music and energy feel authentic and fun, attracting a popular, crowded vibe often filled with Japanese students at communal tables.

Dishes serve traditional flavors that closely match those found in Japan. The Okonomiyaki tastes authentic, offering a genuine izakaya experience.

Fresh fish features in the sushi and grilled dishes. The menu includes deep fried food and rolls alongside grilled fish options.

People are saying

"The Japanese food here is bursting with flavor and delicious."

"I thought the cocktails here were genuinely fantastic."

"The seafood here is fresh, especially the sushi and sashimi."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended on weekends to avoid long wait times.

2

The restaurant has limited seating, so arrive early or visit on weekdays.

3

Expect small portion sizes; consider ordering multiple dishes.

15
Casa Latina Bakery image 1

Spacious bakery with bright seating and walls adorned with Frida Kahlo art creates a vibrant atmosphere filled with bachata and salsa music. The environment feels lively and welcoming, often buzzing with conversation. The place offers a charming, colorful vibe that reflects Mexican culture.

Mexican dishes deliver authentic flavors with fresh ingredients. The horchata latte stands out as a genuine, flavorful option.

Fish tacos stand out with Baja style and fresh flavors. Shrimp appears in both tacos and quesadillas, offering a huge portion and solid taste.

People are saying

"The Mexican food here tastes like it's homemade and of high quality."

"I found the food here to be authentic and delicious."

"You have to try the fish tacos; they're the best."

Good to know

1

There is no parking available at the location.

2

A taco with rice and beans costs $7.50.

3

The restaurant offers a panaderรญa, coffee, and Mexican food.

16
AKEMI image 1
Sushi restaurant

Sushi restaurant offers a cozy, relaxed atmosphere with casual yet sophisticated decor. The space suits intimate dining for friends or couples. An excellent sake selection complements the fresh, innovative sushi and tempura dishes.

Dishes offer a rich menu with a strong Japanese feel. The salmon combo delivers an authentic taste. Sushi rolls lean more toward Western-style than traditional.

Fresh fish stands out in sushi and sashimi dishes with excellent quality and aesthetic presentation. Tempura shrimp offers a delightful taste and is a highlight among seafood options.

People are saying

"The Japanese food, especially the sushi, is incredibly fresh."

"I found the food here to be amazing and delicious."

"The salmon combo here tastes authentic and restores my energy."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended due to limited seating and high demand.

2

Expect longer wait times if the restaurant is over 60% full.

3

The average meal costs around $25, including multiple dishes.

17
Taqueria La Familia image 1
Mexican restaurant

Small indoor and outdoor seating creates a homey, family-run vibe with a beautiful mural adding to the authentic Mexican atmosphere. The place offers generous portions and reasonable prices, attracting a neighborhood crowd seeking quick service and classic dishes like crispy tacos and carne asada.

Strong authentic Mexican atmosphere sets the tone. Food tastes very authentic and delicious throughout.

Fish tacos come with rice and beans and often taste crispy and delicious. The fish burrito contains a lot of rice and black beans but lacks fish flavor and can be bland.

People are saying

"I enjoyed the wet burritos; they were so delicious."

"The fish tacos here are delicious and crispy."

"The food here is so authentic and delicious."

Good to know

1

Taqueria La Familia reopened for indoor dining for the first time since COVID.

2

The portions are generous, making it a good value.

3

They offer good vegetarian options on the menu.

18
Marugame Udon image 1
Udon noodle restaurant

Cafeteria-style seating with a self-service condiment island creates a casual, efficient dining experience. The atmosphere is relaxed and welcoming, though sometimes loud and spacious. Many enjoy the customizable toppings bar and authentic udon made from imported Japanese wheat.

Sanuki Udon noodles stand out for their authentic flavor and texture. The menu stays simple and reliable, focusing on classic Japanese udon with authentic dashi soup.

Shrimp tempura stands out with its crispy texture and full flavor. The tempura bar offers a variety including tamago and squid, all served in a self-service setting.

People are saying

"The katsu curry rice was a favorite, with tender meat and crispy coating."

"I found the authentic udon here to be so comforting and flavorful."

"The shrimp tempura here is perfectly crispy and flavorful."

Good to know

1

Customers need to pay before sitting down, which allows everyone to pay separately.

2

The place has wheelchair access and is easy to maneuver inside for those with mobility difficulties.

3

Parking can be difficult because it's mostly street parking nearby.

19
Angeline's Louisiana Kitchen image 1

Louisiana-themed decor with New Orleans artifacts and wooden interior creates a homey, authentic vibe. Live jazz and zydeco music plays at a comfortable volume, supporting a laid-back, casual atmosphere. Outdoor seating and family-friendly touches add to the welcoming environment.

Food delivers authentic southern Cajun flavors and Creole cuisine reminiscent of New Orleans. Dishes offer plentiful, tasty southern comfort food true to Louisiana roots.

Tender seafood shines in dishes like etouffee with a delicious spicy sauce. Shrimp po' boy and fish and grits stand out, along with fried catfish and shrimp creole that get solid praise.

People are saying

"The American Food here, especially the fried chicken, is amazing and moist."

"I'd return just for the warm, chewy beignets dusted with powdered sugar."

"I found the Cajun food here to be delicious and authentic."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended on weekends due to high demand.

2

Expect long wait times during brunch hours on weekends.

3

Parking can be challenging; allow extra time to find a spot.

20
Le Pho Vietnamese Restaurant image 1
Vietnamese restaurant

Bright interior with large windows and high ceilings creates a spacious, airy atmosphere. The room is lively and somewhat loud, filled with natural light and a woodsy decor. The vibe suits those seeking a comfortable, clean place with a Vietnamese-inspired setting.

Food delivers authentic taste with flavors true to tradition. Service feels friendly and genuine, matching the overall authentic vibe.

Shrimp dishes stand out with the shrimp clay pot offering sweet, savory flavors and crispy rice at the bottom. The shrimp roll tastes fresh and contains no MSG, while pho includes fishballs with artificial flavor.

People are saying

"The food here is so authentic and flavorful, I wanted to eat it every day."

"The pho here is really good, especially the broth."

"The Authentic shrimp clay pot is sublime, sweet, and savory."

Good to know

1

Reservations are not required but can help avoid long wait times.

2

The restaurant offers a large menu with various pho options.

3

Adding shrimp to your pho costs an extra $5.

21
Yin Ji Chang Fen - Berkeley image 1
Cantonese restaurant

Chang fen and dim sum dishes serve as specialty items in a basic, casual setting with simple decor and some clutter. The atmosphere feels no-nonsense and country-like, attracting those seeking authentic Cantonese flavors. Portions and prices vary, with some dishes praised for quality and others noted as bland or inconsistent.

Chinese food here tastes authentic and stays reasonably priced. The rice noodle rolls come out incredibly crispy with genuine flavor.

Shrimp dishes stand out with shrimp rice noodle rolls and shrimp chang fen offering comforting flavors. Dim sum includes shrimp dumplings and steamed buns that appeal to kids.

People are saying

"The Chinese food congee here is delicious and comforting."

"I loved the shrimp rice noodle rolls; they were paper-thin and freshly made."

"The rice noodle rolls are paper-thin and authentically Chinese."

Good to know

1

Parking can be challenging, especially in the evening; consider prepaid structure parking.

2

Prices are reasonable, with meals averaging around $10 per person.

3

Expect hearty portions, making it a good value for the price.

Discover more

Berkeley, California

Area guide
Loading Map...