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Top picks in Berkeley

Cafes

You need a reliable cafe that is ready whenever you need a change of scenery.

Based on 665 Opinions
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Updated May 2026
01
Bench Café • Pâtisserie image 1
Bench Café • Pâtisserie image 2
Bench Café • Pâtisserie image 3
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Cozy cafe offers handcrafted artwork and fresh pastries that taste homemade. Bright, airy space with a curved iron staircase leads to a quiet mezzanine perfect for reading or working. Calm atmosphere pairs well with great music and carefully prepared coffee.

Cozy atmosphere with lots of character makes it a nice spot to relax or work. Baked goods feel home-made and pastries stand out as delicious treats alongside carefully prepared coffee.

People are saying

"This coffee spot is so cozy and relaxing, perfect for work."

"The homemade pastries here are amazing and expertly crafted with high-quality."

"This cafe has such a cozy atmosphere, it feels like home."

Good to know

1

All pastries are made in-house at Bench Café • Pâtisserie.

2

Oatmilk substitute costs an extra 75 cents.

3

The café's opening hours in the afternoon are quite limited.

02
Mey Cafe and Bakery image 1

Cozy café offers insanely good coffee and savory scones in a warm, artsy setting. Open kitchen adds a transparent touch while indoor and outdoor seating create a community feel perfect for work or socializing.

Coffee here is insanely good with a cozy, relaxed vibe. Pastries, especially the savory scones, stand out alongside friendly service and a clean, open kitchen.

People are saying

"The cafe's pastries and coffee are delicious and beautifully made."

"It's such a cozy, warm, and welcoming space."

"I loved the great, relaxed vibe of the outdoor seating."

Good to know

1

Mey Cafe and Bakery offers a variety of handmade pastries and coffee drinks.

2

The cafe features rotating flavors of Swiss rolls and cheesecakes.

3

Mey Cafe and Bakery is a women-owned business with a unique message.

03
Masterpiece Coffee image 1

Coffee shop shines with crafted indoor vibe and a peaceful garden patio perfect for relaxed chats. Specialty drinks include carefully made coffee and a perfect matcha rarely found elsewhere. Spacious seating invites casual visits rather than study sessions.

Specialty drinks stand out with carefully made coffee and a perfect matcha rarely found elsewhere. The cafe feels like a cute neighborhood spot sharing space with a stylish shop and patio.

People are saying

"This cafe's pourover is a work of art, brewed with hyper clarity."

"This is the finest specialty coffee experience in the Bay Area."

"I found this place to be a truly hidden gem."

Good to know

1

They only offer oat milk, which is included at no extra charge.

2

The coffee beans are locally roasted and sourced directly from Yunnan farms.

3

Masterpiece Coffee has a unique kiosk-style setup, making it a cozy spot.

04
Jaffa Coffee Roasters image 1

Stylish Palestinian-inspired décor creates a bright, welcoming atmosphere perfect for relaxing or working. Specialty coffee offers a unique tasting experience with carefully sourced beans. A long bar with multiple baristas ensures fast service while maintaining quality.

Coffee here has a unique taste that stands out from other shops. The cafe feels comfortable and cozy, making it easy to relax and enjoy your drink.

People are saying

"I thought the coffee here was one of the best I ever had."

"The pastries here are house-baked and pair perfectly with coffee."

"This cafe's coffee is amazing and carefully crafted."

Good to know

1

Finding an available table could be difficult during busy times.

2

Expect longer wait times for drinks if not ordering black coffee.

3

There has been over a 40% increase in prices within a year.

05
Roast & Toast Cafe image 1

Cafe blends airy space with Arabian-inspired ambiance and stretchy ice cream at a cute stand. Fresh food and reliable wifi make it ideal for work or socializing. Soft Arabic pop music adds to the cozy, welcoming vibe.

Arabian-inspired ambiance creates a unique cafe vibe with stretchy Arabian ice cream served at a cute food stand near the entrance. The cafe offers fresh, very good food and reliable wifi, making it a cozy spot for studying or writing.

People are saying

"I found the coffee here to be top level."

"You have to try this chewy, stretchy booza ice cream."

"You have to try the booza ice cream at this cafe; it's amazing."

Good to know

1

Booza is a unique offering not found in most cafes in the area.

2

Prices for ice cream are $6 for one scoop, $12 for two scoops, and $18 for three scoops.

3

Wi-Fi is free for customers, with details on the receipt.

06
Qahwa Time image 1
Coffee shop

Coffee shop blends herbal aromas with a serene, paradise-like vibe. Cozy seating and free WiFi make it perfect for work or relaxation. Focus on Yemeni coffee adds an exotic touch that sets it apart.

Herbal aromas fill the air, creating a vibe that feels like a trip to Marrakesh markets. The cafe offers a cozy atmosphere that stands out among other coffee shops, with a focus on Yemeni coffee.

People are saying

"The Yemeni coffee here is rich, smooth, and full of authentic flavor."

"The pastry selection here is mouth-watering and thoughtfully prepared."

"The blonde Arabic coffee here is authentic and excellent."

Good to know

1

They roast their beans every day on site for the drip coffee.

2

Qahwa Time offers disability access and welcomes service animals.

3

They are open until 11 pm.

07
Victory Point Cafe image 1

Cozy cafe offers 700+ board games for a small fee and serves fresh salads and pizza. Indoor space buzzes with energy while outdoor booths provide calm. Warm, inviting vibe makes it perfect for late-night socializing and gaming.

A board game cafe with over 700 games available for a small fee, offering both indoor and calmer outdoor seating. Food includes salads and pizza, and the space stays open late with a warm, inviting vibe.

People are saying

"The coffee here is great and smooth."

"They have an extraordinary collection of board games."

"You can play board games at this cafe with over 700 games."

Good to know

1

It costs only $8 per person to play unlimited games for the entire day.

2

Access to the games requires an $8 tab as of June 2025.

3

The cafe is open late at night, making it perfect for studying.

08
Belmo Café image 1

Small bakery with outdoor seating and a Franco-Algerian vibe offers a relaxing, lively atmosphere. Enjoy buttery Apricot Squares and Turkish Coffee alongside spicy sausage sandwiches. Colorful lights and authentic pastries make it feel like a family home.

Offers a very good collection of pastries including buttery Apricot Squares. Serves Turkish Coffee and hearty sandwiches like the spicy sausage.

People are saying

"I loved the fresh, authentic French and Algerian pastries."

"I found the liver sandwich to be an unexpected masterpiece."

"The pastries at this cafe are delicious and fancy."

Good to know

1

Belmo Café is open until midnight, making it a late-night option.

2

Seating outside is limited, so arrive early for outdoor dining.

3

The café offers a variety of gluten-free options, but ask for details.

09
Heyma Yemeni Coffee image 1

Spacious coffee shop blends modern Arabic decor with exceptional coffee flavor for a cozy, welcoming vibe. Sidewalk seating and calming music create a relaxed atmosphere perfect for socializing or studying. Plenty of power outlets support long visits.

Warm, inviting ambiance with sidewalk seating creates a relaxed vibe. Coffee offers exceptional flavor that stands out in the area.

People are saying

"I loved the rich and smooth coffee here."

"You have to try the Yemeni coffee at this cafe; it's the best."

"It's a great work-friendly spot with a beautiful, clean atmosphere."

Good to know

1

Heyma Yemeni Coffee offers a wide assortment of baked goods.

2

The cafe is open late, making it a rare find in Berkeley.

3

Prices for drinks start at $6.99, plus tax.

10
The Hidden Cafe image 1

Art cafe offers a quiet atmosphere with outdoor seating on grassy fields, perfect for casual meetings. Unique menu features an iced kokotu latte and breakfast burrito. Free WiFi and outlets support working or studying in a cozy, natural setting.

An eclectic spot with a unique and peaceful ambience offers free WiFi and outlets for working or studying. Outdoor seating near a park adds to the charm, while the iced kokotu latte and breakfast burrito stand out on the menu.

People are saying

"This coffee spot feels like a cozy second home."

"This cafe is a perfect spot to work or relax."

"The outdoor space is gorgeous, especially with the big grassy lawn."

Good to know

1

Parking can be challenging, especially with a large vehicle.

2

Seating indoors is limited, with only around 12 seats available.

3

The cafe gets packed on weekends, so expect longer wait times.

11
UQBAR Mediterranean Cafe image 1

Cozy cafe boasts a garden patio perfect for casual meetups and a calm vibe ideal for reading or working. Local artwork brightens the art-filled atmosphere, while delicious food complements the classic neighborhood feel. Spacious interiors with comfy chairs invite relaxation and friendly chats.

Offers a great vibe with a nice outdoor courtyard and art-filled atmosphere. Serves delicious food that fits well with a classic neighborhood cafe feel.

People are saying

"The Mediterranean food, especially the shakshuka, is very good."

"The outdoor patio is a cute garden area."

"The Cafe's food is delicious with interesting flavors and good portions."

Good to know

1

The cafe offers a thoughtfully curated menu accommodating many food allergies.

2

Breakfast is served all day, making it a flexible dining option.

3

The cafe is dog-friendly, allowing pets in the outdoor seating area.

12
Cha Thai Tea image 1
Bubble tea store

Small cafe with minimalistic modern decor creates a chill vibe perfect for sitting or working. Focus on authentic Thai drinks and snacks offers a unique taste experience. Friendly atmosphere and cute interior make it inviting and relaxed.

Small cafe offers a cute interior with a nice vibe. Specializes in Thai drinks and desserts with plenty of snacks.

People are saying

"This Thai Tea is creamy, flavorful, and just sweet enough."

"The pandan toast here is the best, not too sweet."

"I loved the authentic Thai drinks and sweet teas here."

Good to know

1

Seating at Cha Thai Tea is very limited.

2

The drink is pretty expensive at $9.50, making it more of a treat.

3

The menu had limited options, which seemed more suited for college students.

13
EL TINY CAFE image 1
Coffee shop

Cozy spot with affordable breakfast draws locals early. Friendly staff serve delicious bagel sandwiches and strong coffee fast. Good wifi and a non-pretentious vibe make it perfect for work or casual chats.

Opens earlier than others nearby, serving delicious bagel sandwiches and good coffee quickly. Staff are friendly and service is top-notch, creating a pleasant, non-pretentious vibe with reasonable prices.

People are saying

"The coffee here is fresh, smooth, and flavorful."

"Their Mexican food is perfectly sized and incredibly flavorful."

"The cafe's coffee and bagel sandwiches are delicious."

Good to know

1

The cafe opens at 6:30 am and closes at 2:30 pm.

2

Prices are affordable, with many items under $10.

3

The cafe is dog-friendly, making it a great spot for pet owners.

14
Helacio's Deli & Cafe image 1

Espresso bar shines with sunny seating and fast WiFi for laptop users. Friendly vibe blends uplifting music and reasonably priced drinks. Cozy spot invites reading, gaming, and socializing in a community oriented space.

Sunny, spacious cafe offers a friendly atmosphere with a mix of oldies and recent songs creating a nice vibe. It serves a good array of reasonably priced drinks and food, and is laptop friendly for working or socializing.

People are saying

"The cafe's owners and staff are super friendly."

"The sandwiches here taste homemade and are super fresh."

"It's got this chill vibe, really homey and quiet."

Good to know

1

Vegan options are available on the menu.

2

Sandwiches cost between $8 and $13.

3

Free parking is found on the side street.

15
Milyar Coffee image 1
Coffee shop

Spacious cafe shines with gold plated decor and large windows that flood light. Quiet, laid-back vibe suits studying and tea gatherings. Enjoy a Yemeni latte and use plentiful power outlets while playing board games in a luxurious interior.

Offers a fancy Arabic cafe vibe with nearly everything gold plated. Serves a Yemeni latte blending rich coffee flavors with steamed milk, and provides a clean, beautiful space suitable for working after 5 PM.

People are saying

"It's a great work-friendly spot with comfy seats and plenty of outlets."

"This cafe's Yemeni coffee is unique and wonderfully strong."

"I thought the desserts here were amazing and delicious."

Good to know

1

Milyar Coffee is open late, making it a good spot for evening visits.

2

Expect a variety of coffee and pastry options at affordable prices.

3

There are plenty of seating options available for working or relaxing.

16
Cafe Brusco image 1

Cozy cafe buzzes with loud music and cramped seating near pickup. Espresso drinks shine alongside in-house bagels like mortadella. Large window adds fresh air to the busy, efficient flow.

Espresso drinks come out delicious and the in-house bagels pair well with options like mortadella. The cafe stays busy but moves the line quickly and offers excellent service.

People are saying

"These bagels are beautiful and delicious."

"I was so surprised by how fresh the food tasted."

"The bagels at this Cafe are some of the best I've had."

Good to know

1

The cafe is often busy, but the line moves quickly.

2

You can mix and match sandwiches to try different flavors.

3

The coffee and food are made with fresh ingredients.

17
Roaming Bean Coffee image 1

Coffee shop in a shipping container offers unbeatable marina views and a lively atmosphere with friendly crowds. Family-owned cafe serves high-quality local coffee by the water. Seating includes chairs and natural spots like rocks, perfect for a waterfront stroll.

Located by the water, the cafe offers a beautiful setting and operates like a family-owned business. It serves high-quality coffee with a local touch.

People are saying

"I thought the coffee here was amazing and tasted so good."

"You'll love the incredible view right on the water."

"The cafe owner and staff are the nicest people I've met."

Good to know

1

Roaming Bean Coffee is located by the water at Cesar Chavez Park.

2

They plan to be at the Berkeley Marina on weekends for several weeks.

3

All the syrups are made in-house.

18
elaichi co. image 1
Coffee shop

Small coffee shop shines with cream-top milk and warm lighting for a cozy vibe. Cramped seating suits quiet work or chats. Unique matka cups serve authentic chai, while a prayer room adds calm and thoughtfulness.

High-quality cream-top milk stands out here, showing care in their drinks. Warm lighting fixtures and a nice design choice create a cozy, cute vibe.

People are saying

"I loved the karak chai; it had just the right amount of sugar."

"The coffee here is amazing and perfectly brewed."

"I loved the authentic karak chai and cardamom bun here."

Good to know

1

Xfinity offers a $7 discount on orders during April Fridays.

2

The store is open until 10:00 PM for late-night visits.

3

Finding a seat can be difficult as it is often crowded.

19
Forest Tea Bar image 1

Small tea house boasts a modern interior and high-quality matcha for tea lovers. Its quiet, peaceful vibe suits cafe seekers well. Limited seating fosters one-on-one conversations in a calm, relaxing space.

Small size with a few tables and bar seating creates a quiet, peaceful vibe. Cleanliness and a relaxing atmosphere make it easy to unwind here.

People are saying

"I found the matcha here to be amazing and good quality."

"Watching them whisk the tea by hand is so enjoyable."

"The matcha at this cafe is delicious and not watered down."

Good to know

1

Expect wait times of 40-50 minutes during peak hours.

2

All lattes are made with soy or oat milk at no extra charge.

3

The matcha costs between $6.75 and over $8 per cup.

20
Coffee Hut image 1
Coffee stand

Coffee stand shines with best coffee quality in downtown Berkeley and a large menu of drinks. Friendly service from two young men creates a welcoming atmosphere. Hazara ownership adds unique cultural character, making it a spot worth returning to with stamp cards.

Friendly and professional service comes from two young men behind the counter. Coffee quality stands out as best in downtown Berkeley among several shops tried.

People are saying

"I thought the coffee here was the best in Berkeley."

"I thought their lavender latte was the best."

"The coffee at this cafe is literally so good."

Good to know

1

Prices at Coffee Hut are reasonable compared to other coffee shops.

2

The menu includes a variety of coffee, tea, and refresher drinks.

3

Coffee Hut offers a stamp card program for regular customers.

21
Binge Coffee House image 1

Cozy spot near campus serves Vietnamese coffee and banh mi in a friendly atmosphere. Small seating fills fast but suits study or casual work. Local favorite for authentic flavors without the travel.

Small space offers a Vietnamese cafe vibe with specialty coffee. It stands out as a local spot worth trying instead of traveling far for similar cafes.

People are saying

"I loved the double matcha, it was bold and perfectly balanced."

"I loved the Vietnamese coffee with its creamy, salty foam."

"Their Vietnamese coffee and egg coffee are amazing."

Good to know

1

Expect limited seating, especially during peak hours.

2

Binge Coffee House specializes in Vietnamese coffee and matcha drinks.

3

It can get crowded, so plan your visit accordingly.

22
CoRo Coffee Roastery image 1

Industrial roastery-chic space offers visible coffee roasting and rich, brown cream in specialty drinks. Quiet, chill vibe suits study or casual meetups with queer-friendly servers using they/them pronouns. Outdoor tables provide calm with morning sun and low traffic.

Rich, brown, crystallized cream stands out among coffee options. Quiet atmosphere pairs with a wide selection of specialty coffee and a queer-friendly vibe through they/them pronoun use for servers.

People are saying

"I thought the coffee here was excellent."

"This cafe has the best coffee and latte art I've ever seen."

"The rosemary latte was a sweet, herbaceous, botanical treat."

Good to know

1

They have a parking lot available for customers.

2

They don't accept cash; only card payments are allowed.

3

CoRo roasts their own coffee, ensuring freshness.

23
MY Coffee Roastery image 1

Cozy cottage-style cafe offers exceptional coffee and a wrap-around patio perfect for relaxing or socializing. Plenty of outdoor seating with electrical outlets supports studying. Busy street noise can intrude but overall vibe stays inviting and charming.

A cozy cottage-style design sets a unique vibe. It stays open on Sundays and serves exceptional coffee that stands out among many cafes.

People are saying

"You have to try their orange blossom latte; it's unusual and pleasant."

"This cafe is in a really cute cottage with fairy vibes."

"The orange blossom latte is smooth and perfectly sweet."

Good to know

1

Finding a place to sit can be difficult during peak hours.

2

Parking is limited; consider nearby superstore parking for shorter durations.

3

They offer plant-based milks for coffee options.

24
Fellini Coffeebar image 1

Small cafe with strong coffee and a shady patio offers a calm spot for locals. Friendly vibe welcomes dogs with complimentary biscuits. Vegan options and pastries add to the value and quality experience.

Offers a great neighborhood vibe with consistently strong coffee. Serves as a reliable spot for local coffee lovers.

People are saying

"I thought this was the best coffee place in town."

"The staff here are amazing and super friendly."

"I loved the coffee and the good vibes at this cafe."

Good to know

1

Fellini Coffeebar offers a free shot with a medium coffee.

2

The place is take-out only, but they have chairs and tables to sit at.

3

Parking is easy to find across the street from Target.

25
Zing! Cafe image 1

Cozy corner-side cafe shines with friendly service and tasty hot sandwiches. Outdoor seating offers a shaded patio and a sunny courtyard for quiet, clean comfort. Easy transit access makes it simple to reach.

A cute little corner-side cafe offers a cozy spot with hot sandwiches on the menu. Service stands out as friendly and attentive.

People are saying

"I thought the sandwiches had a really good balance of meat and veggies."

"The Cafe's hot sandwiches and mac and cheese were magnificent."

"The outdoor seating is nice and clean."

Good to know

1

Bathroom access requires a key, so ask staff for assistance.

2

The cafe has a nice outdoor terrace for dining.

3

Great access to Bart makes it easy to visit.

26
CoRo Coffee Room image 1
Coffee shop

Coffee roaster visible through glass adds charm. Enjoy cafe latte or matcha latte with attentive service. Outdoor seating on a quiet tree-lined street offers a relaxed vibe amid a mix of visitors.

Cafe latte and matcha latte stand out here. Seating options include both indoor and outdoor areas. The vibe blends cultures without any ethnic monopoly, and staff provide attentive service.

People are saying

"I found the coffee here to be outstanding and delicious."

"Their specialty lattes are delicious and fun."

"The coffee here is delicious; I loved the latte."

Good to know

1

Cash is not accepted; only card payments are allowed.

2

Expect long lines on weekends, especially from 9 am to 12 noon.

3

There is limited seating available, especially during peak hours.

27
Tanzie's image 1

Cozy cafe serves authentic northern Thai brunch with dishes like kanom krok that taste like Chiang Mai. Heartwarming decor with a cozy fireplace and plants creates a peaceful, intimate vibe. Popular spot often has a wait, perfect for relaxed brunch chats.

Kanom krok offers a taste that feels like a Chiang Mai cafe. The space invites relaxed brunch chats and feels like a special treat.

People are saying

"I loved the iced jasmine Thai tea; it was so good."

"I found the indoor seating really cozy, almost like home."

"This Cafe's food is a flavor bomb, savory and spicy."

Good to know

1

Tanzie's is walk-in only, so no reservations are accepted.

2

The wait for brunch can be long, typically 30 to 50 minutes.

3

Expect to pay a bit more as the food is on the pricier side.

28
Mind Coffee image 1
Coffee shop

Small coffee shop offers unique floor seating and fast wifi for laptop users. Enjoy amazing matcha and tasty food in a cozy, aesthetic vibe. Music adds to a mindful atmosphere perfect for work or chat.

Small and cozy with an aesthetic vibe, this cafe serves amazing matcha and tasty food. The atmosphere feels beyond average and welcoming.

People are saying

"Their coffee and creative drinks are amazing."

"I loved the matcha here; it was creamy and perfectly sweet."

"I loved this cafe for their amazing matcha."

Good to know

1

There is very limited seating, maybe 12-14 seats including outdoor seating.

2

Expect a wait for seating during peak hours.

3

Half the menu was out of stock during my visit.

29
Peet's Coffee image 1
Coffee shop

Small coffee shop offers a cozy atmosphere with indoor and outdoor seating. Beautiful florist alcove in the backyard adds charm. Relaxed vibe with benches outside invites socializing, and treats like pupcups for dogs make it welcoming for all.

Cozy atmosphere creates a small coffee shop vibe. The spot feels nice and inviting with a comfortable setting.

People are saying

"I got a great cup of coffee at this nice cafe."

"I found the coffee here to be quick and tasty."

Good to know

1

Peet's Coffee has indoor and outdoor seating with views of the historic Claremont Hotel.

2

The coffee shop is known for its cleanliness and fast service.

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Berkeley, California

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