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Local picks in Berkeley

Seafood lunch spots

Made for those who seek out the ocean's harvest as their primary source of midday sustenance.

Based on 715 Opinions
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Updated May 2026
01
Sun Sun Sushi Shop image 1
Sun Sun Sushi Shop image 2
Sun Sun Sushi Shop image 3
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Sushi restaurant

Grab-and-go sushi spot with a lively atmosphere and cozy window tables. Fish quality is fresh and high, offering affordable prices that stand out in the area. Small space feels tidy and simple, catering mostly to quick pickups rather than dine-in.

Quick service suits a grab and go lunch or casual sushi cravings. Most people stop in during their lunch hour for a fast bite.

Fish comes in thick cuts and generous slabs that are very fresh and high quality. Salmon stands out with its melt-in-your-mouth texture and large portions on nigiri.

People are saying

"The sushi here is so fresh and delicious."

"The seafood here is super fresh and generously cut."

"The sushi here is so fresh and high quality."

Good to know

1

This spot is NOT a dine-in restaurant; it's designed for pick-up and go.

2

The prices at Sun Sun Sushi Shop are affordable, with many options under $10.

3

You can request any dish on the menu to be made fresh if it's not in the fridge.

02
Cholita Linda image 1
Latin American restaurant

Latin American restaurant offers a relaxed family-style dining with a charming, welcoming vibe and beautiful, cute decor. The atmosphere stays clean and comfortable, making it a nice spot to sit down and chill. The space suits casual meals with a huge, open layout ideal for lunch or early dinner.

Huge space suits lunch or early dinner well. It works as a solid spot to meet for midday meals.

Fish tacos stand out with Baja-style flavors and crispy yuca fries. Fried bananas and dorry pillet fish add variety to the delicious seafood options.

People are saying

"I thought the fish tacos were delicious and light."

"I loved the fish tacos; they were so crispy and delicious."

"The Papito sandwich is a filling lunch spot with savory and sweet flavors."

Good to know

1

Expect food to arrive within 10-15 minutes during non-peak hours.

2

Prices for sandwiches are very reasonable, typically around $15.

3

The restaurant is clean and well-maintained.

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.

Lunch combos cost about $20 and include a starter, main dish, drink, and salad. Portions are generous and the food, like the Spicy Eggplant with Tofu and pad se ew, tastes solid and satisfying.

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."

"I can't believe I didn't find this authentic Thai food sooner."

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

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
Royal Egyptian Cuisine image 1
Middle Eastern restaurant

Food truck with outdoor seating under trees creates a relaxed and welcoming setting with soothing jazz music playing softly. Atmosphere feels warm and friendly, like dining in a peaceful, quiet home. Tables and chairs are set up nicely, inviting leisurely meals without rush.

Lunch features bowls of soup served as 'Medicine' before ordering, highlighting a focus on health. Wait times can be long and frustrating during lunch hours.

Fresh fish comes straight from Egypt with perfect seasoning. Large seafood platters include salmon, shrimp, mussels, crawfish, and octopus served in generous portions at affordable prices.

People are saying

"I found the food to be delicious and generously portioned."

"Chef Elmy gifted us an amazing platter of fresh seafood."

"This Lunch Spot's food is a feast made with love and fresh ingredients."

Good to know

1

Expect long wait times during peak hours, especially on weekends.

2

The average meal price is around $15, offering good value.

3

Two out of six menu items may not be available at times.

05
Eggyโ€™s Neighborhood Kitchen image 1

Garden patio with lush greenery and waterfalls creates a vibrant, welcoming atmosphere. Outdoor seating includes a dog-friendly terrace with space heaters. Music and mimosas add to a lively, relaxed brunch experience.

Lunch offers a family-friendly atmosphere with dishes that appeal to all ages. The menu features comfort food that satisfies during midday meals.

Shrimp dishes stand out here with fried shrimp and shrimp tacos that taste fresh and flavorful. Fish tacos also appear as a solid option alongside other breakfast items.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious, especially the chicken and waffles benedict."

"The shrimp tacos here are excellent and delicious."

"The food at this Lunch Spot tasted so good and fresh."

Good to know

1

Expect long wait times on weekends due to high customer volume.

2

Reservations are not accepted, so arrive early to secure a seat.

3

You pay at the counter and are seated while waiting for your food.

06
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.

Lunch features quick service and a tuna and tempura shrimp roll that stands out. The spot closes after lunch to prep for dinner.

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 staff here is so sweet and accommodating with my lunch spot needs."

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.

07
Itani Sushi - Berkeley image 1
Japanese restaurant

Indoor shared space opens to a sunny garden patio with ample seating and open doors. Atmosphere feels cool and cute, suited for quick, fresh sushi enjoyed on-site or to-go. Sushi preparation happens visibly at the bar, highlighting high-quality ingredients and excellent value for the price.

Offers quick ready-made lunch options ideal for a fast meal. Lunch hours bring a busy atmosphere, while dinner feels more relaxed.

Sushi features super fresh fish with a perfect rice to fish ratio. The Yonsei roll stands out with seared hamachi, shrimp tempura, pickled red onions, and black garlic.

People are saying

"The seafood here is unbelievably fresh and delicious."

"I picked up their sushi takeout and it was so fresh and delicious."

"This Lunch Spot has the freshest fish I've ever had."

Good to know

1

Itani Sushi offers quick, ready-made lunch and dinner options.

2

The prices are reasonable for the quality of sushi provided.

3

To-go service is quick and comparable to a fancy omakase.

08
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.

Affordable lunch specials include dishes like kung pao chicken. The menu features a variety of options for a quick midday meal.

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."

"The beef stew at this Lunch Spot is rich and delicious."

"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.

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.

Boxed lunches offer authentic Sichuan cuisine with any three dishes for 13.9 yuan. The lunch specials deliver great value and maintain fantastic taste consistently.

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
Berkeley Bowl West image 1

Supermarket offers narrow aisles that often feel crowded and chaotic, especially on weekends. It features an enormous bulk section, a large deli and hot food area, and a notable mushroom selection unmatched in the region. The atmosphere balances a farmerโ€™s market aesthetic with a busy, energetic vibe.

Great hot bar options make for a quick lunch. Taco bowls without tortillas cost less than $4. The lunch area gets busy at times. Many pick up deli items to enjoy a picnic elsewhere.

Top-notch fish counters offer a huge variety of fresh seafood. The selection includes fresh mushrooms and a wide range of meat and fish options that stand out for their quality and freshness.

People are saying

"I found it to be the best grocery store."

"I was impressed by the array of unique local goods and produce."

"It's a great lunch spot with good prepared meal options."

Good to know

1

Parking at Berkeley Bowl West can be difficult.

2

Expect to find unique items here that you can't find anywhere else locally.

3

The store is known for its extensive variety of fresh produce.

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.

Lunch features fried calamari and shrimp that can satisfy two people. Options include Lomo saltado with soup and a maracuya drink, creating a solid midday meal.

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."

"This Lunch Spot's ceviche is citrus-forward with a little spice."

"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
The Walnut Tavern Bar & Grill image 1

Bar and grill combines cozy rustic decor with an upstairs rooftop terrace offering Bay views. Atmosphere stays chill and peaceful with warm lighting and a community feel. TVs near the bar show sports, adding a lively touch without overpowering the calm vibe.

Menu blends breakfast and lunch items well. Options suit both lunch and dinner times.

Seafood dishes feature bold Cajun spices and rich tomato-based broth. Options include shrimp gamba, Atlantic salmon, shrimp scampi, and a fisherman stew with ample seafood and vegetables.

People are saying

"The bar food here is outstanding, especially the crispy fries."

"The food and cocktails at this Lunch Spot are simply delicious and well-prepared."

"The seafood here is rich and savory, especially the shrimp gamba."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 3-5pm with discounted drinks.

2

Expect to spend around $40 to $50 per person for food and drinks.

3

The restaurant is dog-friendly, allowing pets on the patio.

13
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.

Lunch features gumbo and fried chicken as main dishes with beignets and coffee for dessert. The spot offers a quiet atmosphere suitable for enjoying a late meal alone.

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."

"This lunch spot's fried chicken is so crispy and delicious."

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.

14
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.

Lunch includes dishes like savory egg cutlet with gravy and braised pork ribs with green-headed mushrooms. Portions come on the smaller side, often needing more than one dish to fill up.

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

"The Lunch Spot's egg cutlet is refreshing and fragrant."

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.

15
King Yen image 1
Chinese restaurant

Large dining room offers a bright, airy atmosphere with a quiet vibe that suits relaxed meals. Generous portions and family-style dishes attract a steady local crowd, especially on weekends. Outdoor seating adds a casual option next to the sidewalk.

Lunch offers huge portions and delicious food. Meals satisfy with generous servings and strong flavors.

Kung pao fish fillet comes out perfectly crispy and flavorful. The sweet and sour fried fish is consistently good. Shrimp dishes often lack freshness and taste, with some shrimp burnt and hard.

People are saying

"The takeout here is reliably good and uniformly prepared."

"I thought the hot and sour soup was the best."

"I had a delicious lunch here."

Good to know

1

King Yen offers generous portion sizes, ideal for sharing or leftovers.

2

Takeout service is reliable and food is cooked on-site.

3

Diners may find the prices a bit steep, averaging around $20 per dish.

16
Zut! On Fourth image 1
Californian restaurant

Californian restaurant offers patio seating with jazz music and a retractable roof that blends indoor and outdoor dining. Atmosphere balances cozy charm with lively energy, suitable for special occasions without feeling formal. Popular spot features world-class views and a well-lit street setting.

Elegant and quiet atmosphere suits lunch meetings well. Patio seating adds a nice touch, and the menu includes several salad options for lunch.

Fish and chips come tender and moist with a pleasant presentation. Oysters arrive with a raspberry vinaigrette mignonette but appear sparse on a large ice platter. Trout and meze plates also offer delicious flavors.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and beautifully prepared."

"The Lunch Spot's salmon salad was fantastic and tasty."

"The fish and chips here are tender and moist."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended, especially during busy lunch hours.

2

Expect to pay around $75 for brunch for two, including meals and coffee.

3

Parking is generally easy on weekdays, but can be challenging on weekends.

17
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.

Close proximity to work makes it a popular choice for a quick lunch. Expect a fast service but be ready for a line during peak hours.

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."

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

"It's a good lunch spot for a quick, cheap meal."

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.

18
Mainichi Sushi image 1
Japanese restaurant

Japanese restaurant offers a cozy and spacious interior with a casual yet luxurious atmosphere suited for groups and casual dates. The menu is huge with many choices, featuring fresh and authentic sushi praised for quality and generous portions. Free miso soup and orange slices accompany meals, adding a simple but thoughtful touch.

Quick meals fit well here with a simple ambience that suits lunch. Flies from outside can make finishing the meal challenging.

Tasting courses feature very fresh fish. Chirashi don offers a large variety of fish, including some uncommon types, with a reasonable rice portion. Menu includes seafood udon, sushi, seafood ramen, and rolls, though the fish-to-rice ratio can be uneven.

People are saying

"The Japanese food here is so fresh and delicious."

"The seafood here is so fresh, especially the fish in the tasting course."

"The Lunch Spot's sashimi portions are generous and tasty."

Good to know

1

Parking is available directly in front of the restaurant.

2

The restaurant offers free miso soup with each meal.

3

Expect a busy atmosphere on Wednesday evenings.

19
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.

Lunch includes options like a carnitas burrito served fresh. Food smells inviting and the spot offers dine-in and takeout for lunch along with other meals.

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."

"You have to try the baked goods; they look scrumptious."

"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.

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Berkeley, California

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